Martial Arts?

[Ocean5]

I plan to learn Krav Maga self-defense training (mix of martial arts, boxing, and street fighting.) Just kinda hard to find training centers.

I say at least try it. You can always stop if it's not for you. But I understand the fear of having PTSD, and taking lessons. What if I go into flashback, lose control on someone, or dissociate.

 

[Truthful_Whispers]

I studied Shotokan Karate, and some MMA. Judo is great for women, because it relies on momentum and leverage much more than physical strength. Martial arts, or at least some basic self defense training, is a great empowerment tool for anyone, especially females. Here is a good video for learning to thwart an attacker. ** I don't know about you, but to me, this dude looks ripe for an armbar or maybe fresh helping of go-go plata. ;)

 

[Kodah]

In my experience, every martial art class is different from the other. There are different styles, instructors, and students. Most should offer a couple free lessons and then you can decide from there.

Yoga is also good. I'm a long time martial artist who turned to yoga for cross training activity and ended in PTSD yoga later.

I try and focus on me applying the style to me so it becomes my art. I have difficulty in yoga but adapt to make it work for me. The same attitude is applied in martial arts. No two martial artists are the same as they may have different body and mind to come to class with but everyone has the same goal.

 

[Friday]

I gave up on the idea more or less, after trying to do the course for a month or so, once a week.

Most instructors I know say kids can get by with once a week, but adults need at least 3 times a week. Ideally? Both kids and adults daily. But while kids brains are plastic enough to absorb and recall, adults need the constant repetition.

One of the reasons I <3 My Dojo? Straight up monthly fee. 5 classes a day, 6 days a week, not including 2 kids classes a day. Come as often as you like, but 3x per week is the recommended minimum.

 

[Truthful_Whispers]

Most instructors I know say kids can get by with once a week, but adults need at least 3 times a wee...

True. One of the reasons for practicing kata in karate. Muscle memory.

 

[Ronin]

Since I haven't seen it mentioned, even if slight off topic... & escapology training may come more handy in many situations, safety for best defense. Necessary balances to all martial arts, not being in those situations, getting out quick, and knowing how to get out in the first place.

 

[Deleted member 19804]

I've done kickboxing for a short time and I absolutely loved it. For me the hardest part was the fact that it was in front of a wall of mirrors, because I got confronted with a visual of my own clumsiness. Also, I want to get stronger arms before I rejoin. But on its own it felt really empowering.

Like others before me have said, if you want to do it, go for it! You may disclose your PTSD, but I don't think it'll be a requirement. Maybe you can tell your instructor that sometimes things can get too much so you might take a time out every now and then. What do you think?
It's true that a trainer won't be able to help you with any PTSD symptoms, but I'm sure that if you explain your situation up front, they will have no problem with you taking a break sometimes.

 

[Eagle3]

I've been studying Ryukyu Kenpo and American Karate for the last 10 years. Even though my current instructor is kind of a douche, he still respects the fact that i have to go easy when sparring. i can fight girls and kids, but not guys without running the risk of serious flashbacks/dissociation/panic attacks. I received one black belt from this guy, and am working on my second, but standing up for myself with regard to my PTSD issues in class has been GREAT assertiveness training and has really helped in other areas of life as well. It is very beneficial for anyone to take MA, trauma issues or not, but find yourself a good group of people to train with.