I have been in Judo for about a year now. Is it the right martial art for me?

I am a large guy. Built like a truck. I began with Judo as a way to get myself in shape mentally as well as physically while dealing with immense stressors. A close friend of my father is a Hachidan, so it made it a simple choice to join him in his workouts and meditation. Anyway, while I enjoy it very much, I am not sure if it’s what’s best for me. I was a heavyweight wrestler and football player in high school. I have always been very strong. Since judo is often about using momentum of the opponent to your advantage, I don’t often have the opportunity to use my strength to my advantage. Should I switch to another art? Should I crosstrain in another art? Thanks for your input.

Judo is an excellent foundational art. Many famous westener martial artists started out with judo, eg Chuck Norris (while in the army) and Australia’s Richard Norton.
If you want to take advantage of your strength why not consider crosstraining in a strength based striking martial art? Karate, boxing and kickboxing are all styles that take advantage of ones strength. Afterall, if you can take out an attacker with a single strong punch to the jaw, then there will be no need for throwing and grappling.
Finally, if you enjoy your Judo training don’t give it up because it teaches excellent practical skills, however if you are considering training in another style, crosstrain in one of the martial art’s i mentioned for a while before you decide if you want to give up on Judo altogether.

Message From Your Heart – Kina Grannis Original

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