Expert: Marc MacYoung - 10/25/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi Marc. I've been reading about different martial arts for quite some time now, yet I still haven't decided on which one I might do yet. There was an interesting quote I saw saying something like ''Train to fight like an old man, because one day you will be one''. I think I might have saw it on your site. That got me thinking that maybe the 'softer' martial arts would be better long term, rather than going for something like Thai boxing which would be harder to do as you get over 35 or whatever. I'm in my mid 20s now, and would like to maybe do something that will last my whole life, or most of it. What's your view on it all?

Also, RBSD like krav maga seems like an interesting option, but as you say, it depends on who is teaching it, rather than the art itself. I've been reading about a guy called Geoff Thompson, he has the same sort of life story you have. He pretty much has the same opinions you have as well, from what I've read. It looks like he just does the simple things really well. I teacher like that would be great. So in your opinion, what would be the best long term option?

ANSWER: Honestly, try them all. If you're talking about a life long process then pick and choose what system interests you at different parts of your life. What tickles your fancy now will not be the same as what works for you in five years. If you're looking at this in the long term, there's no reason not to look at it in the long term

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the answer. I just want to ask another quick follow up: do you think wing chun would be a good martial art to try first? I ask this because it doesn't seem too 'hardcore' as a first step towards learning combat/fighting/self defense. I know that technique is the main thing, as you say. But is it an effective martial art? I think it might be the one I will start with.


Answer
Wing chun is an art that I studied over 20 years ago. Back then what it was for was a lot less 'over-marketed' than it is now. WC is NOT a wunder-tool MA as it is so often marketed as.

What I will tell you though is it is DAMNED handy to know if you find yourself fighting in a cramped space like between two pool tables, a doorway or in a hall. It's REALLY good for that kind of environment. So in that regard it is a good choice -- but again, it really depends on your teacher. Just don't buy into all the advertising and marketing that has come about -- especially in Europe.