Originally posted by jimbo999
First off I'd advise enrolling in a good, combat-based martial art - steer clear of MMA or your average 'sports-based' competitive martial art.
Agreed. Avoid the MMA is it's often taught by amateurs or has confusing, non-flowing styles Your choice of martial arts should really reflect two
things. Your physique and your mental attitude.
Some people such as the elderly - should consider maybe judo since it teaches you how to develop a safe fall and basic grappling skills and
off-balance techniques, perfect for tackling and dealing with bigger opponents.
Young, tall or skinny people may consider aikido or even karate or jujitsu or tae kwondo (google them all and find your preference).
But it all depends on what you wish to develop. Some arts are designed for striking or defensive blocking , whilst others are more about defence,
locks and holds. Others are more form based and use the enemies momentum or weight against them.
Best bet is to google the various types and try a few lessons of each (most decent dojo's will allow a free lesson or two).
Personally, I studied karate and basic Aikido. I prefer the karate for the direct stance, balance and delivery of blows (I studied it for three
years), whilst the aikido is very basic (and was taught to me by an ex policeman over a period of six months).
I've not done MA for a good few years now and wouldn't mind actually learning real aikido.