2. CONSIDER YOUR PURPOSE FOR PURSUING THE MARTIAL ARTS
Self-defense
The first purpose of most martial arts training is self-defense, to prepare you to defend yourself or your loved ones from danger. This does not include the defense of your possessions. For that, a pointy stick will do quite nicely. Anyway, the use of force solely to protect one's property is not excused by the law - except, of course, near the Bayou. And besides, think about it: Are you really willing to risk your life over even your most valued possessions, like your complete collection of Baywatch, including the Pamela Anderson years? (All right, don't answer that.)
As you become a more effective fighter, you will take on the added responsibility of avoiding situations that may lead to physical conflict. The study of martial arts is as much about learning how to predict and avoid conflict as it is about reacting once conflict has begun. Hence the quote by the great Sun Tzu, sage advisor to ancient warlords and contemporary "pop-business" strategists, from his Art of War: "To subdue the enemy without fighting is the greatest skill." Remember also the maxim of the samurai: "The greatest warrior is the one who need never unsheathe his blade." A side note for the guys out there: showing off for the ladies is not a suitable reason for getting into a fight - impress her later, when you can draw your sword in private.
Physical fitness
The second purpose for studying martial arts probably comes before self-defense among your daily priorities (unless you live in Bosnia or South Central L.A.): physical fitness. A physical attack is just a future possibility; looking good for the ladies or gents is a full-time situation. All of the martial arts we discuss below will contribute to your level of physical fitness. You'll want to be clear, however, on which physical qualities you want to improve. Many disciplines provide a mix of anaerobic and aerobic exercise (exercise that revs up the heart and breathing rate). You'll also want to consider whether upper body and arm strength is a priority - some disciplines focus primarily on kicks and flexibility. Many of these disciplines may not focus on particular muscle groups or concerns such as cardiovascular fitness, so you might consider cross-training - such as running, swimming, or weight-lifting - as a supplement to your martial arts studies.
If physical fitness is the predominant reason you're interested in martial arts, you could think about just getting a gym membership, or trying out one of the more exercise-oriented programs. The seemingly ubiquitous TaeBo is such a program, the absurdity of its infomercials notwithstanding ("Thank you, Billy Blanks! You've changed my life and tightened up my glutes!"). While these other options may offer great opportunities to improve your health and fitness, they will be less likely to give you the sense of being part of a community with a long and distinguished history, and to provide the mental and spiritual advantages discussed below. (Besides, let's face it, if you have a black belt in any martial art, everyone will know you are a bad-ass. Who are you going to impress by telling them you're an expert in TaeBo?)
Mental and spiritual focus
The third purpose for studying martial arts is possibly last in your mind right now, but will become more important as you continue your martial arts (trust us): the mental and spiritual focus that will result from your study and practice. As you become able to free your mind of outside influences, and achieve the goals you set within your program of study, this focus will translate into other areas of your life. You'll find yourself better able to relieve stress and manage anxiety. Others will recognize your newfound confidence, and this will increase your leadership abilities (and, of course, your ability to get nookie). For another activity that nicely complements martial arts, take a crack at learning the basics of yoga. Yoga focuses on flexibility, which will improve your martial arts, and it's also pretty damn spiritual.
