hi, im new and need help

[julea]

I posted this in introductions, but thought this might get more traffic.

Hello, I'm new here!
My name is Julia, and I am 17 years old (18 this fall).
My main goal, in this forum, is to possibly find a place to train in martial arts (one that appeals to me-- I have done taekwondo and wushu, but am not limited to those) that is near New Haven, CT. Also, it must be a place where the instructor is tought on his/her students. I like a challenge, and for my ass to be kicked. I'm a scorpio, that's just how it is with martial arts for me. lol.
I love weapons ( )-- I've learned some bo staff and chain, and had started on a tiny bit of sword before I stopped (health issues).
That was a few years ago, and every so often I get the "martial arts itch" and research studios that could be right for me. Unfortunately, I havent found one that is so that isn't too far away to go to regularly.
So, now I am asking this forum for help! Do any of you know where I can find such a place? If so, PLEASE let me know!
thank you!

[Spartan]

Hey Julia, I know that you want an instructor that will be tough on you...but anyone can be tough on a student...and charge you all kinds of money for it...it would be better for you if you searched for an instructor that was really knowledgeable, preferably years of study behind him, and also a good teacher...not so important that he be a "dazzling performer"...the best practitioners do not always make the best teachers...
Next you want to see what is available in your area...then decide what you would really like to study...hard or soft...close range or long fist...Japanese, Chinese, Korean, etc.,...also, some arts are more simple by design...large moter skills versus small moter skills...power vs. quickness...and we can go on with the comparisons...but this should give you some ideas...hope it helps

[sirdarksol]

While I think that experience is necessary, of course, each person is looking for something in particular. Julia is looking for someone who pushes his/her students, and it's not really up to us to tell her that's not what she's looking for.
Each student learns in a different manner, and out of all of us, only Julia knows how she learns. She may learn well from someone who "dazzles".

The rest of the questions are important to consider, however.
Unfortunately, Julia, I can't help you any more than I did on Martial Forums (I recognize your spiel )

[disgruntled]

i think you have a good point sirdarksol, but spartan is right that you first have to find out what is in your areas and then go throught the process of elimination. it will be less overwhellming and will be more effective

[sirdarksol]

I'm sorry, I meant to agree with that point, too.
The only part that I disagreed with was what she was really looking for. The rest was excellent advice, in my opinion.

[Shirindo]

I think they're all good points, best of luck finding what you're looking for.

Also welcome to the forums Spartan. Hope to see you around more.