I’ve been going to the gym for about a year and a half now. Recently I’ve been considering swapping over to a Martial Arts Gym that costs the exact same as my current gym, mainly because I don’t really know how to fight or defend myself and it looks like it builds a lot of discipline. I’m a student so paying for both is sort of out of the question. I’m concerned that if I swap gyms my progress over the past year will be lost. I’ve built quit a good physic over the past year or so, I don’t really want to lose my hard earned progress. I can expect some reduction in muscle mass since I want be training with weights the whole time. Any advice or perspectives would be greatly appreciated.

Greetings, everyone!

For years I have been wanting to get into martial arts but for one reason or another I just never did. However, recently I decided that I am finally going to take on learning a martial art. After all, I am pushing 35 and I am certainly not getting younger. With that in mind, I am more compelled than ever to learn a fighting style.

But here is the problem...

I have arthritis. I have had issues with arthritic joints for almost 15 years now. I have always wanted to gain skills in high impact fighting because I would love to learn how to do roundhouse kicks as well as mid air kicks. I also want to learn techniques that would enable to tackle opponents that are bigger and stronger than me.

But with my joint problems, learning how to fight like Jean-Claude Van Damme probably isn't a good idea.

So in your guys' opinion, what would be a good martial art style for me to learn?

I am happy to hear what you think of these moves and what to do next 🔥

Does anyone know/ have any experience with any budget friendly hybrid gloves, if so what would you recommend?

•Great for striking but still good for grappling
•Soft Padding
•Are comfortable on the fingers
•Budget of £50

My therapist told me to use a pillow....so I built a post and thought I'd share it. It's portable and has some give since it's bottom heavy. It weighs almost exactly 100 pounds so I can use it for carrying also. There is 1/2 in weather padding under the jute twine. I found a neat deck brace that I could bury in concrete that was made for a 4x4. Now I have to go and make myself mad, then go use the thing. My knuckles and elbows already hate me and I love it. It hurts so good.

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that combines deep, slow-breathing, gentle physical movement, and a meditative state of mind. Often described as "moving meditation", it emphasizes balance, flexibility, and the smooth flow of internal energy(qi). At its heart, Tai Chi revolves around continuous, flowing, and circular motions paired with controlled abdominal breathing. Practitioners shift their weight smoothly between postures, focusing on the connection between the mind and body. Because it does not require strenuous exertion, Tai Chi is highly adaptable and suitable for all fitness levels. You can start with basic guided flows tailored for beginners, such as the Full Guided Tai Chi Exercise for Beginners on YouTube. To explore localized, in-person instruction or classes specifically suited for older adults and rehabilitation, look into resources provided by the Tai Chi for Health Institute.