Ex Lemur - Yeah, they all will probably make you fit and 'tougher'
Do you mean balance like in a spiritual way or in a physical way?
And would you like to learn realistic self-defense useful in everyday situations?
I admire kickboxing, there *is* a lot of kicking involved: which can sometimes be useful, or not (in real situations). Never tried it tho. I think a targeted self-defense course could be better for learning basics of self-defense if needed. Kung fu might teach you more 'freestyle' and 'hands on' bravery/stuff from up close too - though it can be a bit complicated
(We were told that people who only know how to kick and/or box can 'get lost' in other situations...) It depends on the school and the teachers too... Also, do you like kicking & boxing?
There are also some newer martial arts schools or 'mixes' of things.. might wanna check the library if they have any martial arts magazines, or check online, talk to some people on martial arts forums etc.
What about aikido? Some people talk good things about it, as to finding 'spiritual balance', I don't know how good it is in actual self-defense though?
Anyway, it's good to check what is available locally and see what would fit your schedule. It's really important to go to practice regularly, so the best course can do no good if you can't make it to the course.. Consider also factors like price, availability & price of any gear, special courses (some schools go on mini-holidays together
) and maybe private lessons or lessons in mini-groups if needed/wanted...
