style help

[shoe]

I would like to take up a martial art. I think I would like something that has its primary focus on evasion (not geeting hit)and a few crippling offensive blows. Is there any thing like that out there? Is that even realistic? It would primarily be for self defense and not for sport or spiritual reasons. Thank you.

[Andy Murray]

Originally posted by shoe
I would like to take up a martial art. I think I would like something that has its primary focus on evasion (not geeting hit)and a few crippling offensive blows. Is there any thing like that out there? Is that even realistic? It would primarily be for self defense and not for sport or spiritual reasons. Thank you.

Hi Shoe.

It's called Sprinting mate!

Just kidding. ;)

Do a few searches on 'Silat' and see if that's on your wavelength!

[Bon]

Boxing comes to mind for me.

[shoe]

Well, Let me rephrase my question. What style would help me the most in a situation where I was being attacked by a group of gang members. I just assumed a style that would minimize the amount of blows I would take wiould suit me best, but you guys are the MA's so you tell me.Thanks again.

[Bon]

Try running.

Dealing with one person is complicated enough, let alone when confronted with a group of gang members who are most likely carrying weapons. Your best defense would be avoidance, upon failing that, running for your life.

[YODA]

I agree - if you can't fight one then your chances of fighting many are minimal.

Big tip: The goal in a street fight is not to win. The goal is to not loose :D

[shoe]

Please excuse my lack of knowledge, as you can tell I'm new to all this. A little bit of background on myself is I'm 5'7" 200lbs 28 yrs old and have not so great knees. So running and high flying kicks are out of the question and the more I read other posts I think a close quarter art or sport is what i need. What do you guys think?

[Bon]

If you want to increase your chances of survival on the street I'd reccomend:

Getting stronger via weights - paramount IMO in this modern day world, the person who hits first and hits the hard will usually win.
Increasing your fitness & losing weight
Boxing, Muay Thai, BJJ, Arnis
Studying street psychology from people like Geoff Thompson

Having this knowledge should give you confidence and awareness to avoid such situations, but also give you a greater chance of surviving if you do end up in a situation like that.

[morphus]

I would think Ju Jitsu is a good bet ....but it has to be a good school with a good instructor.
You might try Choi Kwang Do or Muay Tai or boxing or Wing Chun
Search around, don't settle for the first one you go to see. Take part in a few different arts lessons and don't judge an art on one lesson.....make the effort at the beginning it'll be worth it.

:cool: