by Soo Ma Tai » Tue Jan 11, 2011 3:37 pm
Ok, so you've studied MA for a while, that's awesome. From TKD you've learned very well how to move, etc. At this point you ~need~ something like Escrima...don't do Kali, do Escrima. Fina a Guru (yes that's what escrima masters are called) and check it out. See if they do any kind of sparring (read, padded weapon combat) and ask if you could give it a try. If you are better than them before you start taking classes, don't bother. If they whoop up on you, then you are in good shape. Stick with that guy. You will learn a ton of stuff that won't really be applicable to Bel fighting, but you'll learn some good stuff that will. Tai Chi will help you become a smoother, more graceful fighter. It will also give you some good methods and mental tricks for developing speed and power.
Disclaimer-I am 38, I have been a practicioner of MA for over 20 years. This is the one subject I know the most about. I am Belted in American Kenpo as well as having studied some Shaolin weapons forms, a great deal of Escrima, and a smattering of other stuff.
Soo Ma Tai, Warmaster
Sir Fancy Pants
Uruk-Hai, Horde, White Skull, VB
Antler Up, Herd Win!