Request for information - Toronto Area

[SimonM]

Hi gang,

Once again I've stupidly let myself go and need to get back into shape desperately. I'm interested in getting back into martial arts but relocated from London to Toronto.

My three prerequisites:

1) Live Sparring I do not want to end up somewhere where they think their art is too deadly for the ring.

2) Sword - particularly a school with resistance practice.

3) In the GTA.

A CMA school is of course preferred but not required. Any tips?

[David Jamieson]

Where are you at in Toronto Simon?

Are you looking to get into competitions?

I can't think of any "traditional" kung fu schools that will have you live sparring off the bat or sword sparring.

However, I can think of several mma joints that will have you on the matt in a matter of months doing full contact if that's what you like.

For sword, join a fencing club. You'll get more practical sword use knowledge from that as opposed to waiting to learn a sword form, then apps, then resistent live sparring.

I can't think of a single club in the GTA that will offer you what you are looking for right off the street.

[bawang]

martial arts wont get you back in shape. you need a gym membership

[SimonM]

I need to get back into something vaguely resembling shape before I consider competition. Two years sitting on my ass writing a book were not kind to my waistline.

I won't lie: I just like stepping into the ring - it's fun.

I am in Danforth Village.

Sad there isn't anywhere in t-dot for sword sparring and boxing; there is a school for that in London (my old one) and not a day goes by that I don't miss them. It's just life took me to a different place.

Thanks for the info anyway David.

[David Jamieson]

I need to get back into something vaguely resembling shape before I consider competition. Two years sitting on my ass writing a book were not kind to my waistline.

I won't lie: I just like stepping into the ring - it's fun.

I am in Danforth Village.

Sad there isn't anywhere in t-dot for sword sparring and boxing; there is a school for that in London (my old one) and not a day goes by that I don't miss them. It's just life took me to a different place.

Thanks for the info anyway David.

London has a crapload of martial arts schools. I think they have more per capita than anywhere else in north america.

millionaires too.

go figure.

[sanjuro_ronin]

I need to get back into something vaguely resembling shape before I consider competition. Two years sitting on my ass writing a book were not kind to my waistline.

I won't lie: I just like stepping into the ring - it's fun.

I am in Danforth Village.

Sad there isn't anywhere in t-dot for sword sparring and boxing; there is a school for that in London (my old one) and not a day goes by that I don't miss them. It's just life took me to a different place.

Thanks for the info anyway David.

You may have to go to multiple places.
Of course if you are OK with the Japanese systems you can join the Japanese cultural center and get Judo and Kendo, I was there for a few years.
But TCMA ??
Nah, you won't find any COMMERCIAL school like that.

[SimonM]

Judo and Kendo just might scratch my itch... if I can't find a CMA alternative...

[sanjuro_ronin]

Judo and Kendo just might scratch my itch... if I can't find a CMA alternative...

Have you tried the JingWu academy?
Not sure if they have what you are looking for, but if anyone does, they might.