Martial Arts

[Porkchop]

Hey, since I'm newly separate from my spouse I decided that it was time to work on my health etc. To that end, I'm trying to be more physically active and lose some weight. I've wanted to get into martial arts for years but thought that dreamed with the explosion that caused my incontinence. So before I give up... is this something that is possible in diapers? Is this a hygiene issue for whatever dojo I join or can this realistically happen?

[Steve M.]

Glad to hear you are moving on with your life and taking care of yourself. That has been a challenge for me...especially now.
Several months before the pandemic started, I decided I wanted to get back into a fairly mindful group yoga practice. It is not as active as contact martial arts, but there is a lot of movement. I knew a good leakproof diaper would be hard to hide forever. I got over others finding out mostly. I talked to the regular instructor about my UI and concerns. They said no problem. With a good diaper and support garment, I had no leaks and hygiene was not a problem. I'm looking forward to getting back into it after the pandemic eases and the studio reopens. The practice was really good for my head and confidence. Also had a chance to meet some pretty nice like minded people.
Martial arts might be a bit different with lots of contact, but the general practice of martial arts asanas and light sparing might not be an issue. Guess you won't know until you chat with a good instructor and find a dojo that is a good fit for where you are at. Good luck on your path.

[Porkchop]

Thanks Steve! I haven't reached out because I'm too embarrassed to bring it up. I found one forum for disabled martial artists on the subject, but they mocked people with incontinence so ruthlessly that it crushed my spirit. I have found literally zero on the topic, so I am at an impasse.

[WetDad]

I got into Tae Kwan Do many years ago with my young son. Sparring was gentle in the lower levels, and the more advanced students went easy on the newbies. At that time I only needed pull-ups and we would both change in to our gee (sp?) before leaving the house.

[Porkchop]

@WetDad
If all I needed was a pull-up I wouldn't be as paranoid, but I'm too embarrassed to even ask the question.

[WetDad]

Don't worry- the clothing is very loose fitting by design, and the cloth is very heavy, so that you can be grabbed and thrown without tearing the material. Nobody plays grab-ass, and everyone is purely focused on accurate hits/throws.

[Porkchop]

WetDad, or Tom if you prefer,

I might just have to bite the bullet and call a place to ask. Step 1, find a reputable place to go. I just REALLY need to get this weight off or I'm staring down the barrel at a diabetic incident.

Thanks for the advice!

[WetDad]

You will have a fun time, if your experience is anything like mine. I always came home with sore knuckles (pushups) and bruises. I was in a class of mostly youngsters- under 20, many in middle school or high school. Not sure how it would be taught in a covid world, but I could yell through cloth mask as well as the next person.

[Porkchop]

@Tom,

I just have to get up the courage to call in advance and ask if this would be okay. It's still too humiliating to discuss this one, I try to keep my continence a private matter ya know.

[WetDad]

@Tom,

I just have to get up the courage to call in advance and ask if this would be okay. It's still too humiliating to discuss this one, I try to keep my continence a private matter ya know.

I understand completely.