Does This Sound OK?

[D+C]

Hi all,

I'm interested in training in a TMA with full-contact training and the possibility of competition. I have been exchanging a few emails with a local sifu about his academy, whether the training is full contact and whether I could apply what I learned to the heavy bag at my gym. This is the reply, and I was hoping you guys could let me know if it sounds worth a look;

We are a traditional Kung Fu school and so we cover all areas of the art. We have full contact (Sanshou) fighting but in order to compete in this students need to build a solid base which takes time. Due to the nature of full contact fighting we guide you through the process toward the full contact but depending on your ability and desire the amount of time to achieve can vary, however when you attend you'll see how this process takes place and it'll make complete sense. You can use the skills learned in class on the heavy bag, a lot of what you'll do will directly translate across and if you require further assistance either the assistant coaches or myself can give additional guidance.

Cheers in advance.

[slamdunc]

We are a traditional Kung Fu school and so we cover all areas of the art. We have full contact (Sanshou) fighting but in order to compete in this students need to build a solid base which takes time. Due to the nature of full contact fighting we guide you through the process toward the full contact but depending on your ability and desire the amount of time to achieve can vary, however when you attend you'll see how this process takes place and it'll make complete sense.

So, they are saying you have to crawl before you walk and walk before you run? You should probably look at the finished product of this school. Do they train people to do what you want to do when you are done? You indicate that you want to train & compete full-contact; does this school train full-contact fighters? If so, do they train any that actually do well in competition?

[Permalost]

You should probably watch a class before signing up for anything.

[Anjin]

Obviously drop by and check out a class. The fact that they do have full contact sparring is encouraging. There's nothing wrong with building a foundation before you fight or spar. You should post the school and style, just because.

[Diesel_tke]

Well, that's one of the problems I have with some of the traditional CMA training. The end result will be good, but how long does it take to get there? Then compare that to a kickboxing school. The training may be fun, but if it isn't efficient, you have to decide what is better for you. If you are wanting to do some kickboxing competitions in the next year, you probably will want to go to a kickboxing school.

But if you are not worried about how quick you get there, then they will probably be a cool plase to train, if their people compete and do well.

Some CMA schools will tell you that the end result is not what matters, it is the journey that is the whole point.

[D+C]

Thanks very much for the replies. I have signed up for a couple of weeks of classes at a discounted rate so hopefully I'll get a better idea of what it's all about. My first post might have been a little misleading, competition is something I might be interested in later on, but my priority is to find a TMA where I know the training is live and full contact. I want competition as an option and as an indicator of quality training, but time is not an issue here.
Thanks again, I'll update when I've been along for a session.

[thrustpunch]

might be bullshido, be warned. that same dialog is basically a cut and paste at most schools that are full of it. it could be years before you can spar.

ideally you are sparring within 3 months, if you're a beginner. shorter if you have previous experience.