I took Funakoshi which is a slightly more fundamental form of Shotokan. It is definitely a lot of hard work, but not even the gym can compare to the kind of shape you'll be in. I'm going to echo what other people have said here - its not so much the art as it is the instructor. Of course, I'd suggest avoiding 'nationalized' martial arts if you're looking for a more focused style. Stick with the traditional styles. You learn some amazing techniques for concentration and focus. I had a different experience with Funakoshi/Shotokan than Flipside (probably due to a different instructor) - we learned a lot of "flow of water" movements meant to feint and parry your opponents force. Of course, there were the forceful punches and kicks too, but you had to learn to control those (stopping your hits a centimeter away from your training partner, for example). It certainly wasn't unrestrained brute force.
If you're just looking for boxing/streetfighting stuff that is fun but is good exercise, I had a lot of fun with Capoeira (what little I did). Good luck finding an instructor though.
Can't say I know much about the Chinese styles, sorry.
Control is a major part of it--you'll be learning some unexpected techniques. Many, without control, would be deadly to your opponent (not recommended
) or could get yourself injured. These are typically strikes--such as a strike with your wrist, finger, or knuckle. Others are certain elbows and technique of a palm strike and many kicks. Other then that, sparring techniques are prone to getting blisters on your feet: as you speed up and tire out, it's quite common to stub your toes, roll your ankle, or peel a few layers back depending on surfaces.
By the way--I had the displeasure of trying two Capoeira classes in Florida. Nago Capoeira was the school--and I really disliked the instructor. I am a practitioner of traditional martial arts--and frankly the instructor sucked. The biggest slip-ups? There were a half a dozen "newbies" that have done fewer than two classes--included some that the class was their first! Here's just two no-nos, commited by an inexperienced instructor. He practiced for a "long time", but apparently not long enough. About a decade from what I gather. Depending on the level and the skill of an instructor, you don't even need a black belt to teach newbies. All you need is someone who is a good instructor and knows the techniques being taught. That being said--I have 4 years experience and rank 2nd Kyu in my style. I can teach that style for 2-3 years to complete newbies before I get to techniques I'm not that experienced with.
1) No one-on-one work. We're a half dozen newbies: and I know from years of experience my best way to learn a technique. Start at basics, and focus there. When you have that down comfortably, then your instructor starts adding techniques. Typically start with strikes, then work with blocks. People have a rough image of how to punch--so teach them how to do it better.
2) Sparring... in your first lesson?
ARE YOU ****ING CRAZY!?!?!?! Basically a rule--you don't teach sparring until you actually know a student's potential. I don't care if it's simulated: you can show it, but don't ask for it. Ever. PERIOD.
