[peajay]

Hi...
New here, and seeking guidance.

I'm a 40yr old dad.
I used to do a karate when I was younger - but like many teenagers, I gave it up without progressing further than learning my first belt Kata. Impatience of youth eh?

Now, I have a son who is 12. He has been told (by our Doctor, and occupational health specialist) that he needs to build up his core body strength and stability. This is due to him having rather loose ligaments. Which means he is hyperflexive. He was recommended to do Pilates. However, he does not fancy being in a class with lots of mums...

I suggested he try Karate (or similar).

In our area, we have Shotokan Karate, Tae Kwon-Do, Lau Gar Kung Fu, Akido, and Judo... So, we are quite well served... However, I'm steering clear of Judo as his loosenes may not suit this kind of style...

I'm probably going to go with him - I could do with getting fitter anyway! However, what would any of you suggest. I'm not into trophies, show, just fitness, core stability and defence.

[Sensei S. Hilaire]

I am not sure that this is the answer you would want - but I would not suggest martial arts to build core body strength when there is a medical problem - especially with the joints. I cannot think of one martial art that would not strain the joints at this point. It would be better to get him to a gym that has a core strength building program. Once he has built that core strength, and his ligaments and muscles are strong enough to compensate for any looseness in the joints - he can join a martial arts club. And - dont expect this to happen quickly. At age 12, he is just beginning to get a trickle of testosterone. It will really take him till 14 or 15 to get to the place where he has a good strength to bodyweight ratio and muscle mass to overcome the issue you mentioned. At that time - I would suggest Judo. Judo is still somewhat focused on strength building, and at the same time, someone with over flexible joints would have an advantage in that art. My advice is to take the time to build his young body correctly, then move him into an art (or several) that he can be successful at.

As for your own personal training - as long as you are healthy - you should look for an art that fits your body style and demeanor. That will give you the most success.