Your suggestions

**Phantom** · Posted On: 3/05/2006 9:51am

I currently train in TKD and Hapkido. I'm looking for something new, but I live in Sioux Falls. The only arts available here are TKD, HKD, Shotokan, Judo, Bujinkan Taijutsu, 8 Step mantis and Shyun Tai Chi, and Muay Thai- BJJ. I've done my homework, just looking for some help. If you know of any other styles in Sioux Falls I missed, please let me know.

**ryanand** · Posted On: 3/05/2006 9:54am

i dont know how good the instruction is at either place but if i were in your position i'd go to the MT-BJJ place, or if not there then i'd go for judo.

**Shard** · Posted On: 3/05/2006 10:00am

Yes i agree with Ryan on this one.
I have no doubt that there are some very good schools that teach TKD,kung fu , etc etc. Those however are in the minority. As a safety net, i too would suggest going to either MT-BJJ.

**NakMuay** · Posted On: 3/05/2006 10:43am

You should definatly try Muay Thai - BJJ, it is the most effective and fun in the list.
All other styles in that list(except for judo) will only boost ur confidence but your fighting skills won't improve...

**Odacon** · Posted On: 3/05/2006 11:18am

Try them all!! Seriously you'll probably have fun and learn a bit from each one. You'll end up settling into one or two and then just take it from there.

**gcarson** · Posted On: 3/05/2006 11:31am

Originally Posted by odacon

Try them all!! Seriously you'll probably have fun and learn a bit from each one. You'll end up settling into one or two and then just take it from there.

Yup, although I too lean towards the arts that involve full contact, full speed like many of those above, I would suggest that you take a day to experience each individually. You may find one that fits perfect for you, but that no one here would recommend.

**Phantom** · Posted On: 3/05/2006 11:34am

Thanks for your ideas. Does anyone know about 8 step? I saw the website, but I need to know more applications before I decide.

**Ronin.74** · Posted On: 3/05/2006 12:43pm

You should definitely go sit in a class before making any decisions. MT/BJJ are generally your best bet but still watch a class first and try to get some information on where their MT and BJJ training come from. There have been instances of instructors from other systems claiming to teach MT when in truth they have never really studied the system only learned a few techniques from books or videos. BJJ has some of the best quality control so it should be ok, but still ask for details.

As far as Mantis, I used to live in Shandong China which is the birth place of Mantis. I am not sure if 8 step originates from that part of China but from what I've seen of Northern Mantis it seems more practical then Shaolin Mantis or Southern Mantis, but this is just my opinion.