Martial Arts are great for getting you fit and in shape, but please forgive me if I say not many are that great at teaching you how to defend yourself? Ive done a few, three to a high level and while they do give you confidence, theres not much of it id rely on in a street situation. Ive done Shokatan (spelling) Karate, Judo and Krav Maga as well as some Aikido, mainly though im a boxer. All of this stuff is great for getting you in shape, keeping you in shape, getting you flexible and supple, doing wonders for your fitness whatever your age. However Krav Maga is the one if your looking for self defence. Its the toughest ive found so far, and im always looking for a challenge. Boxing is my passion but im always looking to challenge myself and improve what i can do already.
I wouldnt rely on any of this in a street fight though, if it comes to that, and it has a few times, do whatever it takes, fingers in the eyes, bite wherever you can, pull the blokes balls off, do whatever you have to, dont rely on martial arts to save you if your attacked. It helps, but it isnt guarenteed and a lot of people think itll help them instantly in any situation! Andys right though, people who are at a high level in any art have nothing to prove and are often the nicest people you will meet, at one with themself. Shame we all cant be like that, world would be a better place!