Emmm... Hello? Few questions, if I may?

[belikewater]

Hello. (Can't believe how nervous I am about posting here!)

OK, here goes, and I'll apologise in advance for all spelling mistakes and possible breaches of etiquette, none of which is intentional. I have absolutely no knowledge of martial arts whatsoever, other than what I've seen in films.

I am interested in Tae Kwon Do, Tang Soo Do, and T'ai Chi Chuan.

How/where do I find out more about these? I've looked on the net, but there's so many federations and associations and clubs and groups... How do I tell which are genuine and "proper", as they all claim to be? And how do I go about learning/training? I know you're probably going to tell me to join a club or association, but there's a potential problem there of a personal nature:

I'm... let's say... approaching middle age, one arm doesn't work too well as a result of an RTA a few years ago (I have about 60% rotational movement in the shoulder). But mostly, I'm terrified. Is it OK/usual/normal/acceptable for someone of my age and complete ignorance to try to learn a martial art? I should also stress that I have no interest whatsoever in competing in any competition, at any level. I'd want to learn to be technically competent (maybe even good?), and for the philosophy and physical and mental discipline involved. I'm just very, very, scared of going along and looking like a complete idiot.

Thanks in advance for any advice or suggestions.

[johndoch]

Hey there Mr Water welcome to the Forums.

I would nt worry about you age or the fact you are are carrying an injury. I've seen many people start MA's at middle age and I've also trained with a guy that had cerebal palsy that affected the movement of his left arm.

The best advice I could give you is to get out there and try a few classes. Dont worry about the abundance of organisations out there as the teacher that is teaching you is more important.

Hope that helps.

BTW where roughly in Scotland are you? Theres a lot of folks here that may be able to point you in the direction of a good club.

[belikewater]

Hi, I'm about half-way between Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Appreciate your comments - thanks. How can I tell who's a "good" teacher? I wouldn't want to spend a few months starting off, only to discover later that I'm being taught a corruption of a pure system. I guess personal reccommendation is the best way to go?

Thanks again.

[Jim]

BELIKEWATER, HOW DARE YOU POST A TOPIC ON THESE FORUMS... Just kidding! Welcome and I'm sure you'll find someone here who'll be in your area. If you went to ANY club/school/Dojo/whatever and they (intentionally) made you feel like an idiot then the more fool them!

I wouldn't worry too much about looking to join any set federation, etc. just look for what interests you and 'get into it'. I think you'll find it's addictive.

Good luck and try the chatroom when you have more time.

[teacher]

Hi there, you'll know the teacher is good if you like the atmosphere of the club, if the students look skilled and if you feel you are getting the teaching you deserve. If you browse this site you'll soon find the sort of advice that's given to everyone who's unsure.
There is no age or health barrier if you enjoy what you are doing and you feel you are progressing.
Best wishes for the future.

[Tosh]

Hello hello and Welcome!!

One recommendation for TKD in Central Scotland is Master L Hutchinson (BITF - Taekwondo)

But look at everything and find the art that suits you. Most clubs in Scotland run free classes as an intro!

[Kinjiro Tsukasa]

Hello, belikewater, I think you've already gotten some good advice here. I just wanted to say that you shouldn't worry about the age thing, or the not-completely-functional arm. I think I am older than you are (and have a few, hopefully temporary, physical limitations) and have just recently started in martial arts myself, having had no previous knowledge of MA. I am the oldest student in my class (at least in one of the styles I study), and am training with students who are much younger than I am (and mostly guys, to boot), but I feel accepted there. In a good school, the people should make you feel welcome, and the teachers should help you adapt the techniques to your body (the level of adaptability may depend on the style; I'm too much of a newbie to be of any help there. My style is quite adaptable).

It may not be the usual situation for people to start martial arts at an older age, but it certainly is acceptable! I waited a long time to start; martial arts just seemed so scary and different than anything I had ever done before. It was a big relief to actually begin and realize "Yes, I CAN do this!" I don't have the athletic ability and flexibility of the younger students, so my progress may be slower, but that doesn't matter, since I am not competing with anyone but myself. When you pick a school, just do the best you can, put in your best effort, and you should be respected for that.

(By the way, I understand being nervous about posting here; this is only my second day posting!)