title basically says it. im 30 years old, havent exercised seriously in years, and want to start some kind of martial arts. but the idea of getting punched in the face on day one is terrifying. what should i do?
what ive researched so far:
BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu):
- no striking which removes the getting-punched concern
- seems to have the best community/culture from what i read online
- lots of options in DFW
- concern: the close physical contact with strangers seems weird at first
Muay Thai:
- striking art so i WILL get hit eventually
- but apparently the first few months are mostly pad and bag work, not sparring
- the conditioning benefits seem incredible
- concern: brain damage from sparring long term
Boxing:
- similar to muay thai in terms of eventually getting hit
- simpler to learn the basics? only hands vs hands/feet/knees/elbows
- cheaper than most martial arts gyms
- concern: same brain health concerns
Wrestling:
- no striking, very physical, incredible conditioning
- concern: very few adult wrestling programs. mostly youth/high school focused
the "out of shape" factor: i know everyone says "you dont need to be in shape to start." but like... HOW out of shape are we talking? i cant run a mile without stopping. will i survive a class?
DFW martial artists: what do you recommend for a total beginner who is more interested in the fitness and community aspects than competing or fighting?
BJJ is the answer for what you described. no striking, incredible community, you get in shape BY training (you dont need to be in shape first), and the close contact thing stops being weird after about 3 classes. you will be too focused on not getting choked to worry about personal space