I am thinking of training in the martial arts. I think Aikido might be a good fit for me, from what I read it focuses more balance and footwork than some other disciplines. I am large person and am not designed for a lot of striking. Any suggestions?
Hence my name, I love Aikido. It’s a wonderful way to study a martial art and learn about yourself without getting into the BS egotism of many martial arts. It’s a physical extention of a wonderful philosophy. It’s also incredibly effective, since your practices are always done on a live person rather than learning katas (not that those are bad I just don’t find them very stimulating).
It is definately all about balance and connection. So long as you’re in it for self-evolution and not cause “you wanna learn to kick ass”, then you’ll love it and get hooked. I have practiced so many different martials arts, but Aiki was definately the best fit for me.
If you’re looking for good footwork, Muay Thai, boxing or wrestling might be better choices. All three are stand-up arts or have a significant stand-up game (wrestling).
Since you’re not too interested in full-contact striking, perhaps wrestling would be your best bet. Personally, I train submission grappling/BJJ and love it although we don’t spend much time on footwork. Still, you’ll get a lot of live fighting (rather than half-hearted sparring) and a realistic sense of your ability to defend yourself.
My suggestion os to find a BJJ school or wrestling program in incorporate plenty of jump rope and footwork drills.