5. I am interested in learning a martial art with the objectives of improving relaxation and focus through meditation plus improving subtlety and strength. I already run and mountain bike regularly. How do I choose which martial art is most suitable, or for these objectives will any suffice?
Richard - UK

... You should find the pursuit of your objectives through Martial Art quite fulfilling. Be aware however that there are many styles, schools and approaches that are loosely grouped under the Martial Art banner. Much will depend on the individual teacher and the learning philosophy they follow. Take the time to acquaint yourself with what is available in your community. Visit some schools and ask some good questions. Avoid those situations that are dominantly sport or combat oriented. The school need not be rigidly traditional if they are prepared to embrace the "Do" (or Tao) aspect of the path to learning. Martial Art is the original Mind & Body exercise system with an integration of the mental physical and spiritual. Many different schools can offer this training although on the surface their techniques may vary. Also we recommend you our books "The Secret Art of Health & Fitness" - Weatherhill Inc., New York / Tokyo, and "Martial Arts Mind & Body" - Human Kinetics, Champaign - Illinois. You may want to buy them online or order them from your local bookstore. Through them we provide a more expanded educational material that indeed will help you in your choice of your Martial Art Program.