So, I took Tae Kwon Do in elementary school, but really only 'cause my friend did - I don't think I ever even took a belt test. I also rode horses, which I liked, and did gymnastics, which I hated. (Too much falling off of crap all the time.)
But, now I'm old (well, 21, but I feel old) and in crappy shape - plus, I'm bored and need a hobby. Since I live in the city now, horseback riding is a little out of the question, so I came to the idea of trying martial arts again.
Through 'net research and visiting area schools, I'm basically down to deciding between akido and shotokan karate. I'm more or less academically aware of the differences between the two - I'm mostly just looking for something to improve my physical condition. The spiritual principles in akido interest me, but not enough for that to make the decision for me.
Really, I'm worried about being an out-of-shape female beginner who isn't a little kid, since I already have crap for self-esteem. So.. What say you?
2007-07-11 02:24:58 · 10 answers · asked by shoujokakumeijchan 2 in Sports ➔ Martial Arts
I think you'd benefit more from Akido. You might want to add Shotokan after a year or two of Akido. Hope that helps. Good luck.
2007-07-11 03:28:11 · answer #1 · answered by pm 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Excellent discussion. I'd just add--or perhaps supplement to--a couple of thoughts. Virtually every technique "works"--in the right setting by the right practitioner. Still, for instance: My son's 5'2" tall. He's a purple belt in BJJ. There are simply some techniques (those that benefit from long legs) that don't work as well for him as for others. The techniques are fine, but for him--even if executed perfectly--they're probably not the best choices, particularly when he's competing against someone half a foot taller. In boxing and MMA, some people (whether it's due to personality or they way they've been taught, or whatever) tend to be more aggressive. Others tend to be counter-punchers. In such a setting, some techniques may be more effective for one fighter than another. So the term "discard" may be a bit extreme or harsh. But for many people, it makes sense to selectively choose techniques that do work well for that person (and often for that person versus a specific competitor) and to--if not discard, then--choose not to employ certain other techniques. Hope that helps.
2016-05-19 06:10:09 · answer #2 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My daughter took shotokan for many years. If you like repetious drills and Kata, then that's for you.Since you said you hated gymnastics, I wouldn't recommend Aikido, since rolling is a BIG part of it, as well as back, forward and side falls. Take krav Maga or Haganah. You can get in great shape and learn to defend yourself, or for fun take some cardio kickboxing, you'll get in good shape and learn a few moves, but at least you will be working out with mostly women.
2007-07-11 15:41:05 · answer #3 · answered by Alan L 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I took Aikido and its good self defence. Only if someone starts on you. If you want to be able to strike and defend yourself on the street then Karate is the best option. I took Aikido and stopped after 3 months because i know on the street someone isnt going to let you twist there arm in a nice gentle way, its a dream, sorry harsh but true. Karate all the way. Aikido is good PURELY is someone attacks u and its only 1 attacker.
2007-07-14 06:37:31 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Aikido is much more gentle and less agressive, probably right in line for a woman with confidence issues. Shotokan will involve much more striking against and from large men. Maybe start with the aikido.
2007-07-11 04:55:05 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I suggest visiting both schools and choosing the one where the people are the friendliest and the instructors least into the "macho" scene. A class for adult beginners might be nice, but we train with all ages, and the family atmosphere is really comfortable. The right school makes all the difference.
2007-07-11 02:36:45 · answer #6 · answered by rcpeabody1 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you are looking for physical conditioning karate will offer more aerobic activity than akido.
I encourage you to visit all the schools in your area and take free classes before deciding.
You need to find a school you like, not a style you like.
The quality and frequency of your training will far outweigh your style.
2007-07-11 05:33:09 · answer #7 · answered by spidertiger440 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
My suggestion would be that you choose akido just because you can perceive some depth that you can't see in shotokan.
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2007-07-11 05:06:31 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
aikido is far more balanced than shotokan karate! it can be used for combat and of coarse just for fitness and i can assure you you wont find many kids practicing it! i dont train aikido myself i train in boxing and muay thai and some judo but i can tell you aikido is very good!
of coarse if you dont like it you can always try shotokan karate.
2007-07-11 02:40:37 · answer #9 · answered by the heat 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
why dont you try horseback riding in the city, you might just find it lots of fun. it must give a hell of a rush, LoL
2007-07-11 02:28:57 · answer #10 · answered by Joeley7 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋