What is the best martial art for me?

[Langenschwert]

It of course depends on what's near you. As a general rule, Boxing and Judo clubs are of generally high quality, and will give you a good foundation for basically anything. Straight up wrestling is a great (or perhaps the best) option, can't go wrong with that. Just remember that being great in a sporting art doesn't make you a self-defence expert, though it will prepare you very well to learn it quickly. Don't forget weapon arts, too... it's a pretty good reality check since some arts' weapon defence is shall we say... optimistic. Once you've learned how to use a knife or a sword or a stick you'll start to see how AMAZINGLY good you'd have to be at weapon defence to make it work against a skilled, armed attacker. For weapon arts, make sure they don't just take an unarmed form and stick a weapon on it. That's a huge red flag run up a flashing neon flag pole. Most importantly, find something that's fun and you enjoy training in... that way you'll actually show up to train.

-Mark

 

[Shai Hulud]

Well, what do you see yourself doing? Do you fancy pugilism, or want to gt up close and personal and grapple?

It's really up to you. Ultimately we could make a hundred recommendations on a hundred different arts and still not be able to help you. Do some research. Attend a few demos. Sit in at a class or two, and get a feel of the style. You'll know when you've found an art you can commit to (or at least you think you can). The physical fitness/conditioning will follow with the commitment to training.

 

[Hanzou]

I would personally recommend Brazilian Jiujitsu. Preferably Gracie Bjj for self defense training alongside sport training. Bjj will compliment your lanky frame very well.

If you can't find such a school, than Judo is a solid third choice. Maybe an equal choice if its freestyle and not hung up on IJF rules.