Frequent Questions
453 questions
21
votes
5
answers
6k
views
How should a novice train if unable to join a dojo yet?
I have wanted to start learning a type of martial art for a long time, but my lifestyle didn't help (I have lived in 5 countries in the last 10 years, changed location at least once in each of those ...
- 313
33
votes
13
answers
20k
views
What martial art should I start with?
Young male, not looking for anything specific, but I am a huge fan of MMA in general. (not just the UFC/SF)
What would be a good beginner martial art for both fitness and relevancy to watching MMA/...
- 448
16
votes
6
answers
2k
views
How to select the right Aikido dojo
What should I be aware of if I would like to start training Aikido? I used to train as teenager in small dojo. I picked up few tricks but I never got the essence of Aikido. Is there something you ...
user72
18
votes
4
answers
2k
views
Why is more time dedicated to exercises and very less for sparring? Is it for the fee?
In some forms of Karate, sparring with a partner is done just once in three months. The rest of the time is spent in strength exercises, katas, flexibility exercises and ab crunches. I've noticed this ...
- 869
16
votes
5
answers
4k
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Solo martial art learning
I would really like to practice a martial art. However, because of financial problems, where I live (far from anywhere big), and work commitments, I cannot afford the time and expense of going to a ...
- 161
56
votes
20
answers
12k
views
Which martial arts focus on self defense?
I'm trying to make sure I ask this question in a manner that doesn't make it subjective or argumentative.
While all martial arts have merit, I believe those merits lie in various areas. Which ...
- 1,110
10
votes
7
answers
817
views
Defence in martial arts in general
Not saying I can always block every punch or kick that's thrown against me in sparring but why is it that you sometimes cannot block, parry or dodge an attack? Is it because I haven't trained the ...
- 105
18
votes
4
answers
3k
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What are the signs that a dojo could be classed as a McDojo?
McDojo is a portmanteau of the words
McDonald's, a famous American fast food chain
dojo
This conveys a emphasis on commercialism and an assembly line approach to the detriment of martial arts. McDojo ...
6
votes
2
answers
3k
views
Name and meaning of stance where you stand with fists on hips?
After the first Kiai in Heian Sandan (source):
Bring left foot to the right, pivot left 180 degrees on the right
foot, informal-attention stance (slowly), bring fists to hips, elbows
to the ...
- 199
22
votes
8
answers
41k
views
How can one practice well alone?
I started learning a martial art about 5 years ago, and I did it for 2 years. I very liked it, however I had to stop.
I didn't want to lose what I've already learned, so I kept practicing. Alone.
...
- 442
13
votes
8
answers
9k
views
Defence against Wing Chun
What is the most effective defence against a Wing Chun practitioner?
I know Wing Chun features punching quite heavily and has a very efficient defence itself but I am interested to know how to ...
- 248
12
votes
13
answers
19k
views
What is Qi power and has it been proven to exist scientifically?
What is "Qi power"? Has it been scientifically investigated? How can we achieve this?
- 123
55
votes
19
answers
52k
views
Is weight training useful in martial arts?
This may sound like a bit of a daft question, but I have heard and read different sides. On the one side, people say weight training will increase your strength and power and therefore will be ...
- 949
30
votes
12
answers
31k
views
Drills for reducing your natural "flinch" reaction
When going into a longsword bind, or getting hit as part of a Kata, I tend to flinch visibly and shut my eyes.
What are some exercises I can do, solo or with a partner, to help me keep my eyes open?
- 571
26
votes
5
answers
87k
views
Are there any effective Kung Fu fighters in MMA?
In my opinion, Kung Fu fighters seem to be stuck into their own environment/technique. I say this because I've never seen any Kung Fu guys fighting (for real/professionally) in a fight with MMA rules.
...
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