What could i do to prepare myself for begining in martial arts?

Question

physically and mentally. Thank you.

Answer 1

Well take it for what it is worth, you will have a lot of people here saying different things. Some of them are valid because they are coming from people who just started Martial Arts.

Let me tell you what will really do it, it will help you and your potential instructor. Let's talk about each realm you mention.

Physically:

This is actually simple, get in better shape and work on flexibility. Every single physical activity benefits from this. So start running, work on your cardio period. Start stretching, look up PNF Stretching and you will find a way to really increase your flexibility quickly.

http://www.exrx.net/ExInfo/Stretching.html

A simple routine is to a stretch series once you wake up, and once you go to bed. You can see good gains in as little as two weeks with consistent stretching.

Getting shape cardio wise. Easy, start running, swimming, doing cardio type exercises. Honestly you can combine cardio, muscle building, and agility for Martial Arts using plyometric exercises and doing it in a circuit. (meaning going from one exercise to another, to another, etc)

This first link is good:

http://www.myfit.ca/fitnessprograms/viewprogram.asp?programid=835

http://exercise.about.com/cs/cardioworkouts/a/hardcorecardio_2.htm

Plyometric Circuit workouts every other day, stretching morning and night.

You will become an athlete, and that my friend is a great thing in Martial Arts. No art is going to be like "Well, if you weren't so strong, fast, flexible and in shape you could grasp this technique"

No the truth is, being agile, in shape, and flexible grants you the ability to do more things easier than others, it allows you to learn faster, assimilate moves faster, and be able to do more without getting tired. 75% of the work with beginning students is getting them in shape enough to actually handle Martial Arts and it's techniques.

Also, you develop a body awareness and ability to control your body during this type of routine, which is essential for Martial Arts, where a slight turn here or there can greatly increase the effectiveness of a technique. If you have that kind of control of your body already, tweaking small flaws in form become much easier.

Mentally:
If you are able to have the discipline to do the physical part, you will have the fortitude necessary for the mental part. Keep an open mind period. No need to mentally prepare yourself really, just go in there and do it. The instructor will get you where you need to be mentally, it is what they do.

Mentally all you need is the discipline and will power to continue going, even when you are tired. You will get that from doing the conditioning. Find the "never quit" inside of yourself and you will have all you need.

Good luck to you, Martial Arts are a life changing experience and prepare for more than just how to fight, they prepare you on how to be a better and more successful person.

At least they did for me.

Answer 2

That's quite simple. Be specific on which martial arts you are taking.

If it's the following of: Karate, Tae Kwon Do and Kung Fu expect to learn a lot of forms--meaning that it's not so direct with beating down the enemy but more of an "art form" you practice in order for yourself to get to know the techniques you were taught from your instructor.

If you are taking one of these; to prepare yourself you have to meditate and do a lot of stretching. Also, breathing exercises will help ease your mind AND body.

Let me note that if you can control your breathing, you can control your stamina. Remember, control conquers power.

You're only a beginner so all I have to say is don't do too much except becoming a little more flexible like touching your toes from standing up and learn to control your breathing.

However if you're taking something like Muay Thai, Mixed Martial arts, Capoiera...

Work on your cardio. Because these types of martial arts are a lot more direct then spiritual.

Cardio such as jogging, crutches, sit-ups, and jump rope.

I did most of these martial arts so I know. :D


P.S: One more serious thing... if you were to ever continue in your martial arts one of the most important rules is modesty or being humble in what you do. Don't let your own ego engulf in what you do in martial arts... it's, in my opinion, very immature.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Simple! Mentally, prepare yourself for a long journey to phsyical discovery and mental discipline. Remind yourself you've never done this before and your brain is being re-wired to perform the martial art you choose.

Physically - walk in the door. You will get all the physical preparation you need once you are there!

Answer 4

While I agree that a certain level of fitness is required to get the most out of martial arts training, all you really need to do is to wear some loose clothing and turn up to a class. If the instructor is any good they will be able to guide you through the rest.

Answer 5

Start stretching twice daily. Once in the morning and once in the evening. Start walking daily. Jog if you can. Do push ups, sit ups, dips, iron crosses/leg lifts, learn to carry the weight of your own body.

Mentally, go in being humble, realize that you are there learn. It takes a long time so stay positive. Do not be too hard on yourself. And please remember that when the instructors tell you your form is weak it is not a personal statement, it is just a fact so don't get emotional about it.

Good luck!!!!!

Answer 6

Nothing.


Enjoy learning something new and exciting.

Learn about new cutltures perspectives, traditions and epecially about yourself.

& Finally develop to a fitter, stronger and healthier person - with practice and commitment.

....I presume you have established that the the trainer is kosher, that what you are learning is affordable and what you want ...thereafter, enjoy the journey.

Answer 7

it depends on the art really like if its karate(which it pays to be fit for it) or if its sum thing like aikido(which u don't need to be to fit to do) but the best thing to prepare your self physically wold be to start sum basic exercises like posh ups, sit ups, running and staff like that just don't over do it coz if u over do it to much u might end up sore the next day i lernt that the hard way

P.S. soz about the spelling

Answer 8

Just go out an do it. If you wait untill your ready to take it on you never will. All teachers will understand your a beginner and work with you as such. Yes, it will be hard. But if it wasn't would it be fun?

Answer 9

Start stretching.
Prepare to be sore, so you may want to purchase some muscle ointment, like Tiger Balm.

Enjoy.

Answer 10

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