Re: Martial Arts
It all depends on what you are looking for, people and schools have a tendency to forget the "Martial" side of it and it just becomes "Art". I've done a few styles throughout my life thus far. I have got a black belt in jui jitsu and taught it for a few years but had to stop due to family and such. Now I am practicing (happily mind you) Wah Lum Kung Fu (Mantis style to some) as wells Toyama Ryu Batto Jitsu (Japanese Sword).
imho sparring (full or light) is an integral part, without you may as well take up jogging and get a membership at a gym because you arent really going to learn how to fight or defend yourself. The first time you get solidly popped on the nose you're gonna lose it in more ways then one, but thats another story.
Things to look out for, dont sign any contracts, most are bogus and rip offs. If there are 10 year old black belts, walk away. If they dont spar, your choice but I wouldnt go there either (unless it is as was mentioned earlier, taiji, taichi, but I know schools that still spar that teach certain styles). If they have more merchandise then students, well, probably should walk away as well.
so yeah, if you have questions, ask, if you lived in Tampa I could suggest a few really good schools for you, but I see you are listed in England and Im not overly familiar with that area hehe But I do know people who are.
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