On March 11, I had hip surgery for a torn labrum from FAI on my left hip. I am now a month out and recovering very well, so it is time to start seriously considering what my plan is for the future. Of course, I expect to be in recovery for several more months. One major complication was that the doctor indicated I have very deep hip sockets, so the large hip movements in Shotokan may have caused the injury and I might be prone to more injuries in the future if I continue. It is also conceivable that the injury could have been caused by the impacts on the ground from aikido…

PLAN PART 1: recover over the summer, in July sit in on different martial arts institutes in Houston and make a decision on what style I will train in for my own growth and development.

PLAN PART 2: in the fall, adopt a regular schedule as my body permits. The following options may be fit together like a puzzle in whatever combination works best:

• Training in Houston on weekends (and possibly Wednesday evening??)
• Training Shotokan in Corpus Christi on Thursday evening
• Teaching Goliad Karate on Monday evenings
• Teaching self defense for wellness program and/or workshops

Things I am looking for in a martial art style/school:

• Does not center around fighting (e.g. MMA place)
• Is something I can eventually teach
• Is somewhere where I can be welcomed
• Will get me active and healthy, and hopefully competent physically
• Hopefully doesn’t damage my hip joints??