I am 19 in college and working, but wish to start dedicating my free time to a martial art, especially this summer, or at least get started. I want to practice a martial art that I can work hard at and practice everyday. So it would need to be something I would want to wholesomely dedicate myself to.
I am looking for something that focuses on the improvement of the body, mind, or spirit some might say. I want a martial art that is challenging physically so that I may keep my body in great shape, and keep my mind sharp. I am also a philosophical person who enjoys writing and thinking, so I would like the philosophical part of the martial art to be equally important. I do not want to fight someone just to win or look cool. I am more interested in a hard and friendly competition with myself and others. I feel the correct martial art would be one that focuses on life values, but also emphasizes good physical condition and healthy competition. I do not feel comfortable having matches against strangers, or people I hardly know. I would prefer to build relationships with people I know for longer periods of time and treasure those friendships closely, but I can be very competitive physically and mentally with people I am truly comfortable with. I am not really a large group social person, but I consider myself a "nice guy" who looks out for strangers and gives a helping hand.
I used to wrestle(171), play football(defensive line), and run track(1 mile) in High school. I have tried mix martial arts, only to find it is too much about just learning skills and defeating your opponent. I currently play rugby(flanker) in college and parkour is a hobby. I am about 6'1 and 200 lbs, kinda leg heavy(I'm no gymnast, but have a healthy and strong build). I am not too coordinated and have a steep learning curve, but eventually once I understand something I can become good at it. Off the field or mat, I am very modest and quiet, regardless of my skill on the mat or field, unless it is someone I know well then I can become a little arrogant and excited. I don't know how helpful personal stats are in understanding what martial art I should do, or if they are even are a factor in what I am looking for; just thought I might list them to possibly help.
I believe I am looking for something to be passionate and dedicated too, mentally and physically' which focuses more on the personal learning, so that I may to reach a level of satisfaction and happiness with my-self. And that does not focus on defeating an opponent aggressively, which most the sports I've done have evolved.
I know this is a little long, but if you have experienced the same dilemma or have experiences relating, and can shed some wisdom on my decision, I would greatly appreciate that.
Also, I am not very religious, but love nature, thinking alone, and having philosophical discussions/ training with people I know to be good friends, if that helps at all.
Thank you for your time
I am looking for something that focuses on the improvement of the body, mind, or spirit some might say. I want a martial art that is challenging physically so that I may keep my body in great shape, and keep my mind sharp. I am also a philosophical person who enjoys writing and thinking, so I would like the philosophical part of the martial art to be equally important. I do not want to fight someone just to win or look cool. I am more interested in a hard and friendly competition with myself and others. I feel the correct martial art would be one that focuses on life values, but also emphasizes good physical condition and healthy competition. I do not feel comfortable having matches against strangers, or people I hardly know. I would prefer to build relationships with people I know for longer periods of time and treasure those friendships closely, but I can be very competitive physically and mentally with people I am truly comfortable with. I am not really a large group social person, but I consider myself a "nice guy" who looks out for strangers and gives a helping hand.
I used to wrestle(171), play football(defensive line), and run track(1 mile) in High school. I have tried mix martial arts, only to find it is too much about just learning skills and defeating your opponent. I currently play rugby(flanker) in college and parkour is a hobby. I am about 6'1 and 200 lbs, kinda leg heavy(I'm no gymnast, but have a healthy and strong build). I am not too coordinated and have a steep learning curve, but eventually once I understand something I can become good at it. Off the field or mat, I am very modest and quiet, regardless of my skill on the mat or field, unless it is someone I know well then I can become a little arrogant and excited. I don't know how helpful personal stats are in understanding what martial art I should do, or if they are even are a factor in what I am looking for; just thought I might list them to possibly help.
I believe I am looking for something to be passionate and dedicated too, mentally and physically' which focuses more on the personal learning, so that I may to reach a level of satisfaction and happiness with my-self. And that does not focus on defeating an opponent aggressively, which most the sports I've done have evolved.
I know this is a little long, but if you have experienced the same dilemma or have experiences relating, and can shed some wisdom on my decision, I would greatly appreciate that.
Also, I am not very religious, but love nature, thinking alone, and having philosophical discussions/ training with people I know to be good friends, if that helps at all.
Thank you for your time