General Chat & Info Board

An acquaintance of mine is thinking about signing up at the KBK DOMSA club over in Vrbanima.
Does anyone here have any firsthand experience with them, or maybe just some general thoughts on how the club operates?

What’s the monthly cost for Krav Maga if we assume two sessions per week? I’m looking at the gym in downtown Chicago.
Thanks!

Since I’ve got plenty of free time on my hands—and obviously a massive obsession with martial arts—I’ve been thinking about finally jumping into training. I’ve been scrolling through this forum for a bit, reading through all the different takes, but honestly, I think I’m even more confused now than when I started. I don't have any background in anything; I've never actually stepped foot in a dojo or a gym for training, though I've been fascinated by this stuff since I was a kid. One thing I keep hearing, though, is that a lot of these styles involve a ton of fluff—you know, where everything looks super flashy and cinematic, but you wouldn't be able to use half of it if you actually had to defend yourself in a real situation. I really don't want to waste my time signing up for something that isn't actually practical. I did a little digging on Wikipedia and spent some time reading up on Asian martial arts—mostly stuff from Japan, Korea, and China. Hapkido caught my eye because it seemed pretty interesting, but after browsing some threads here, I noticed people seem to have a pretty negative view of that specific Dan Gun club. It also seems like there's a general consensus that Hapkido can be a bit "pretty" for show rather than being useful for self-defense. Other styles like Aikido look cool too, or maybe those two branches of Kung Fu, Wing Chun and Shorin Ji Kenpo. Then there's Ninjutsu. I guess I should mention that I'm also really interested in learning how to handle weapons, like shuriken, kunai, or even a katana. I'm not saying a martial art *has* to include weapon training to be worth it, but it would definitely be a huge plus for me.

So, what would you guys recommend? Especially for those of you who have experience in multiple different disciplines?

ruggedlynx162 said:Since I’ve got plenty of free time on my hands—and obviously a massive obsession with martial arts—I’ve been thinking about finally jumping into training. I’ve been scrolling through this forum for a bit, reading through all the different takes, but honestly, I think I’m even more confused now than when I started. I don't have any background in anything; I've never actually stepped foot in a dojo or a gym for training, though I've been fascinated by this stuff since I was a kid. One thing I keep hearing, though, is that a lot of these styles involve a ton of fluff—you know, where everything looks super flashy and cinematic, but you wouldn't be able to use half of it if you actually had to defend yourself in a real situation. I really don't want to waste my time signing up for something that isn't actually practical. I did a little digging on Wikipedia and spent some time reading up on Asian martial arts—mostly stuff from Japan, Korea, and China. Hapkido caught my eye because it seemed pretty interesting, but after browsing some threads here, I noticed people seem to have a pretty negative view of that specific Dan Gun club. It also seems like there's a general consensus that Hapkido can be a bit "pretty" for show rather than being useful for self-defense. Other styles like Aikido look cool too, or maybe those two branches of Kung Fu, Wing Chun and Shorin Ji Kenpo. Then there's Ninjutsu. I guess I should mention that I'm also really interested in learning how to handle weapons, like shuriken, kunai, or even a katana. I'm not saying a martial art *has* to include weapon training to be worth it, but it would definitely be a huge plus for me.

So, what would you guys recommend? Especially for those of you who have experience in multiple different disciplines?

Look, Wing Chun was basically designed for street fights, so it’s 100% practical. Just don't expect results overnight; it takes a hell of a lot of patience and time to actually get good at it.

Aikido is solid too, though it’ll take just as much time to master. It’s definitely applicable, just in a completely different way.

Thanks for the tip, Sandra Martin73. I’m starting to feel like Wing Chun might actually be a better fit for me than Aikido, though I have to admit both styles look pretty cool.

Also, I don't want anyone getting the wrong idea—even though I definitely want to learn something useful for self-defense, that isn't really my main reason for wanting to train. It doesn't necessarily have to be 100% practical for a street fight or anything like that.

ruggedlynx162 said:Thanks for the tip, Sandra Martin73. I’m starting to feel like Wing Chun might actually be a better fit for me than Aikido, though I have to admit both styles look pretty cool.

Also, I don't want anyone getting the wrong idea—even though I definitely want to learn something useful for self-defense, that isn't really my main reason for wanting to train. It doesn't necessarily have to be 100% practical for a street fight or anything like that.

If I’m going to commit at least five years to mastering a martial art, then Wing Chun and Aikido are solid choices.

If you aren't sure you have the stamina to stick with this for the long haul, just go try Krav Maga or something similar. You'll see results a lot faster that way.

I was thinking about that conversation from earlier regarding the training regimens for high-level grappling. It’s funny how we always gravitate toward the most intense, grueling sessions—the kind where you leave the gym feeling like you’ve been through a car wreck—but there's something to be said for the technical, almost meditative approach. Sometimes the most effective work isn't about who can grind the hardest, but who can maintain clarity when the pressure starts mounting... it's easy to get lost in the noise of pure athleticism and forget that the mental game is what actually holds everything together. kaže:
It’s not just about self-defense, either; there’s a certain depth to things like Aikido that really draws you in. I’ve also been looking into branches of Kung Fu, specifically stuff like Wing Chun and Shorin Ji Kenpo, along with Ninjutsu. Beyond the hand-to-hand side of things, I’m genuinely interested in learning how to handle weaponry—things like shuriken, kunai, and, naturally, the katana. Now, I’m not saying a martial art *has* to include weapon training to be valid, but for me, having access to that kind of instruction would be a massive plus...

So, what would you guys recommend if I were to pick just one martial art to train? I’m looking for something that really sticks...

Ninjutsu isn't just about flashy moves; it’s really more about the grit of the struggle—the hand-to-hand combat, the footwork, the way you handle all those different kinds of cold steel...
When you look at Wing Chun, the whole philosophy revolves around letting go of the heavy weaponry. You aren't swinging massive broadswords around; instead, the focus shifts to those smaller butterfly knives—you know, the ones with that distinct hand guard—and then eventually moving toward the long pole, or staff. But you don't just jump straight into the sticks from day one...
Aikido: forget about weapons. Even though you’ll see them using katanas or staves during training sessions, they aren't actually teaching you how to use them effectively, the way you'd learn in something like Kenjutsu...
I'm looking into Jiu-Jitsu—specifically the Japanese style—but I’m honestly a bit lost on where to even start looking for a decent gym...
I’ve been thinking about the DSJJ approach to using blunt force—you know, just straight-up physical combat, weapons, and self-defense tactics. It’s an interesting angle, though... definitely a heavy subject to unpack...
KM is pretty similar to DSJJ, though there are a few specific nuances that set them apart...
...

I was thinking about that conversation from earlier regarding the training regimens for high-level grappling. It’s funny how much we focus on the explosive power side of things—the sprints, the heavy lifts, all that grit—while completely ignoring the slow, grinding attrition that actually wins matches. Most people think it's about who can hit the hardest or move the fastest, but if you spend enough time on the mats, you realize it's really just a game of who can stay calm while being suffocated... kaže:
Thanks for the tip, Kyle Lee4. I’ve been chewing on it, and honestly, Wing Chun is starting to look like a much better fit for me than Aikido, even though both styles have their charms...

Once again, I’m being totally misread. Look, I’m just trying to learn some techniques that could actually be useful for self-defense, but that isn't my main reason for hitting the gym or stepping onto the mats. It doesn't have to be something you can pull out of your pocket during a street fight to be worth learning...

I was thinking about Onda Aikido the other day... there’s just something about that specific approach to movement that stays with you long after you’ve left the mat. It isn't just about the techniques or the mechanics of the throw, really. It’s more about that flow, that constant, subtle negotiation between you and your partner... a kind of rhythmic conversation where nobody is actually shouting. It makes you realize how much noise we carry around in our everyday lives, both physically and mentally. If you can find even a fraction of that composure in the middle of a hectic Monday in Chicago, you're doing alright...😬
You’ll be training in what I assume is pretty decent company, so it should be a bit more relaxed compared to some other BJJ schools out there. Honestly, though, it’s unlikely you’ll ever find a practical use for any of this technical knowledge during a roadside rage incident. Unless, of course, you consider completely avoiding conflict—sort of like that whole "turn the other cheek" principle from Jesus—to be a valid form of self-defense...
Look, I haven't actually trained in Aikido myself—I just talk a big game about it online—so you can pretty much skip over that part of the text...😉

hiddensailor14 said:

I was thinking about that conversation from earlier regarding the training regimens for high-level grappling. It’s funny how we always gravitate toward the most intense, grueling sessions—the kind where you leave the gym feeling like you’ve been through a car wreck—but there's something to be said for the technical, almost meditative approach. Sometimes the most effective work isn't about who can grind the hardest, but who can maintain clarity when the pressure starts mounting... it's easy to get lost in the noise of pure athleticism and forget that the mental game is what actually holds everything together. kaže:
It’s not just about self-defense, either; there’s a certain depth to things like Aikido that really draws you in. I’ve also been looking into branches of Kung Fu, specifically stuff like Wing Chun and Shorin Ji Kenpo, along with Ninjutsu. Beyond the hand-to-hand side of things, I’m genuinely interested in learning how to handle weaponry—things like shuriken, kunai, and, naturally, the katana. Now, I’m not saying a martial art *has* to include weapon training to be valid, but for me, having access to that kind of instruction would be a massive plus...

So, what would you guys recommend if I were to pick just one martial art to train? I’m looking for something that really sticks...

Ninjutsu isn't just about flashy moves; it’s really more about the grit of the struggle—the hand-to-hand combat, the footwork, the way you handle all those different kinds of cold steel...
When you look at Wing Chun, the whole philosophy revolves around letting go of the heavy weaponry. You aren't swinging massive broadswords around; instead, the focus shifts to those smaller butterfly knives—you know, the ones with that distinct hand guard—and then eventually moving toward the long pole, or staff. But you don't just jump straight into the sticks from day one...
Aikido: forget about weapons. Even though you’ll see them using katanas or staves during training sessions, they aren't actually teaching you how to use them effectively, the way you'd learn in something like Kenjutsu...
I'm looking into Jiu-Jitsu—specifically the Japanese style—but I’m honestly a bit lost on where to even start looking for a decent gym...
I’ve been thinking about the DSJJ approach to using blunt force—you know, just straight-up physical combat, weapons, and self-defense tactics. It’s an interesting angle, though... definitely a heavy subject to unpack...
KM is pretty similar to DSJJ, though there are a few specific nuances that set them apart...
...

I was thinking about that conversation from earlier regarding the training regimens for high-level grappling. It’s funny how much we focus on the explosive power side of things—the sprints, the heavy lifts, all that grit—while completely ignoring the slow, grinding attrition that actually wins matches. Most people think it's about who can hit the hardest or move the fastest, but if you spend enough time on the mats, you realize it's really just a game of who can stay calm while being suffocated... kaže:
Thanks for the tip, Kyle Lee4. I’ve been chewing on it, and honestly, Wing Chun is starting to look like a much better fit for me than Aikido, even though both styles have their charms...

Once again, I’m being totally misread. Look, I’m just trying to learn some techniques that could actually be useful for self-defense, but that isn't my main reason for hitting the gym or stepping onto the mats. It doesn't have to be something you can pull out of your pocket during a street fight to be worth learning...

I was thinking about Onda Aikido the other day... there’s just something about that specific approach to movement that stays with you long after you’ve left the mat. It isn't just about the techniques or the mechanics of the throw, really. It’s more about that flow, that constant, subtle negotiation between you and your partner... a kind of rhythmic conversation where nobody is actually shouting. It makes you realize how much noise we carry around in our everyday lives, both physically and mentally. If you can find even a fraction of that composure in the middle of a hectic Monday in Chicago, you're doing alright...😬
You’ll be training in what I assume is pretty decent company, so it should be a bit more relaxed compared to some other BJJ schools out there. Honestly, though, it’s unlikely you’ll ever find a practical use for any of this technical knowledge during a roadside rage incident. Unless, of course, you consider completely avoiding conflict—sort of like that whole "turn the other cheek" principle from Jesus—to be a valid form of self-defense...
Look, I haven't actually trained in Aikido myself—I just talk a big game about it online—so you can pretty much skip over that part of the text...😉

I actually know someone who worked as a bouncer—they might still be doing it—who mentioned to me that Aikido was incredibly helpful in their line of work, particularly when it came to de-escalating tense situations.

analogmaker14 said:What’s the monthly cost for Krav Maga if we assume two sessions per week? I’m looking at the gym in downtown Chicago.
Thanks!

$83
Pavilion 25

$100 catch us over at Pavilion No. 6 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

Please, just keep this thread clean from spam 🙂

May I pose a brief inquiry?

I have developed a profound interest in Bagua (Pa Kua), which led me to wonder if anyone here might know of a location in the greater New York City area where one could actually study it.

I haven't had much luck uncovering any leads on my own, though perhaps someone else in this circle has been more successful in their search.

Much appreciated. 😉

Hello, everyone.

I am 21 years old and have recently started training in both Aikido and Judo. My Aikido sessions consist of three 90-minute classes per week, while Judo is twice a week for an hour each.
I am curious about how these two disciplines complement one another. Currently, I find myself accidentally applying techniques from one style during the other, though I assume this confusion will dissipate as my proficiency increases.😁.
Furthermore, I wanted to ask if you believe this volume of training is insufficient—particularly regarding Judo. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find a local club with a schedule that fits my current availability. My only real alternative is to join the competitive squad, which would increase my training to three or four times a week. However, I am unsure what value that would provide for someone still at the white belt level.🙂.

Henry Mitchell2 said:Hello, everyone.

I am 21 years old and have recently started training in both Aikido and Judo. My Aikido sessions consist of three 90-minute classes per week, while Judo is twice a week for an hour each.
I am curious about how these two disciplines complement one another. Currently, I find myself accidentally applying techniques from one style during the other, though I assume this confusion will dissipate as my proficiency increases.😁.
Furthermore, I wanted to ask if you believe this volume of training is insufficient—particularly regarding Judo. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find a local club with a schedule that fits my current availability. My only real alternative is to join the competitive squad, which would increase my training to three or four times a week. However, I am unsure what value that would provide for someone still at the white belt level.🙂.

Personally, I think you've taken on way too much. Training five times a week is more than enough, but trying to juggle two different styles... it's overkill.
It would be a totally different story if you were already a black belt in one of them and were just "broadening your horizons" by picking up the second.
To me, it feels a bit like you're forcing it... don't take this the wrong way... I'm not trying to be mean.

Henry Mitchell2 said:Hello, everyone.

I am 21 years old and have recently started training in both Aikido and Judo. My Aikido sessions consist of three 90-minute classes per week, while Judo is twice a week for an hour each.
I am curious about how these two disciplines complement one another. Currently, I find myself accidentally applying techniques from one style during the other, though I assume this confusion will dissipate as my proficiency increases.😁.
Furthermore, I wanted to ask if you believe this volume of training is insufficient—particularly regarding Judo. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find a local club with a schedule that fits my current availability. My only real alternative is to join the competitive squad, which would increase my training to three or four times a week. However, I am unsure what value that would provide for someone still at the white belt level.🙂.

I agree with Lisa Doyle; I don't think you're doing too little. If anything, it might be a bit much...

Personally, I think starting with Judo is a solid move—if you end up hating it, you can always switch back to Aikido.
As for how they mesh?
Well, both involve throws, breaks, and similar leverage techniques. Since Judo is a competitive sport, some of the more dangerous elements were likely phased out in favor of what actually works in a match. Judo doesn't focus on fighting multiple opponents,
nor does it incorporate weapons like sticks, swords, or knives.
At higher master levels, they become quite similar, but until then...😁

I suspect you'll see faster progress in Judo than in Aikido, so maybe save the Aikido for later in life...

Lisa Doyle said:Personally, I think you've taken on way too much. Training five times a week is more than enough, but trying to juggle two different styles... it's overkill.
It would be a totally different story if you were already a black belt in one of them and were just "broadening your horizons" by picking up the second.
To me, it feels a bit like you're forcing it... don't take this the wrong way... I'm not trying to be mean.

That was a fantastic post by Jacob Sullivan9 on the second to last page of the 'Women's Self-Defense' thread, specifically about this topic. I think those few sentences capture the core truth about how you actually learn martial arts.

To be honest, I didn't expect such negative feedback 🙂.

The reality is that I have an overwhelming amount of energy—far too much, really—and so far, nothing I’ve tried has felt like enough. Aside from other factors, I am talking strictly about physical output.
I also have plenty of free time and, I believe, a strong will.
For years, I stuck to gyms and aerobics because I deal with some issues involving my head and back, and doctors have advised against contact sports since I was young, even though martial arts have always appealed to me. After consulting a few people, they suggested judo and aikido because there is a lower risk of taking heavy blows to the head, which is my primary concern.
It would certainly be easier to just quit once and for all, but training only two or three times a week simply isn't sufficient for me. I need a sport that completely consumes my focus...
I am certain you aren't just talking nonsense; I will likely continue practicing both disciplines for a while longer to see how things progress. Right now, I can't decide on a single path, as they actually seem to complement one another, satisfying my needs for meditation, balance, aggression, and physical release.
My goal isn't to become a grandmaster; I just want to learn.
If I eventually commit to competitive judo, then giving up aikido will likely be inevitable...

Thanks for the input 😉

Henry Mitchell2 said:To be honest, I didn't expect such negative feedback 🙂.

The reality is that I have an overwhelming amount of energy—far too much, really—and so far, nothing I’ve tried has felt like enough. Aside from other factors, I am talking strictly about physical output.
I also have plenty of free time and, I believe, a strong will.
For years, I stuck to gyms and aerobics because I deal with some issues involving my head and back, and doctors have advised against contact sports since I was young, even though martial arts have always appealed to me. After consulting a few people, they suggested judo and aikido because there is a lower risk of taking heavy blows to the head, which is my primary concern.
It would certainly be easier to just quit once and for all, but training only two or three times a week simply isn't sufficient for me. I need a sport that completely consumes my focus...
I am certain you aren't just talking nonsense; I will likely continue practicing both disciplines for a while longer to see how things progress. Right now, I can't decide on a single path, as they actually seem to complement one another, satisfying my needs for meditation, balance, aggression, and physical release.
My goal isn't to become a grandmaster; I just want to learn.
If I eventually commit to competitive judo, then giving up aikido will likely be inevitable...

Thanks for the input 😉

Well, if you're dealing with head and back issues, Judo might not be the best fit after all. There are so many throws involved—landing on your back or sometimes even your head—that the impact from those falls could seriously aggravate your spine or neck.
Of course, that's just my take; you should listen to your own body and decide for yourself.
🙂

Nathan Hill13 said:Well, if you're dealing with head and back issues, Judo might not be the best fit after all. There are so many throws involved—landing on your back or sometimes even your head—that the impact from those falls could seriously aggravate your spine or neck.
Of course, that's just my take; you should listen to your own body and decide for yourself.
🙂

I get it. I don't actually have any issues with my cervical spine, thank God, and I'm hoping that once I master proper breakfalls, I can dodge those ice-cold injuries like a pro. As for head impacts, yeah, I've felt them before, though it hasn't been catastrophic yet.
My real concern would be something like Kickboxing, where taking strikes to the head is just part of the daily grind...

If you're struggling with energy levels, my buddy handles that by hitting the trails...
The guy basically treks across the entire country and crushes these insanely intense races.... he's out there running 20 miles or more through the mountains... absolute beast.
Give that a shot... though I doubt you'll end up with any extra energy from it.
And I'm being dead serious here, no joke.
Your head and your knees are gonna be absolutely trashed.