Rest: Stop activity causing pain and allow injured area to rest for 2 to 3 days.

Ice: To decrease swelling and numb pain, apply ice in form of ice packs or ice massage as soon as possible. Treat for a period of 48 to 72 hours after an injury happens. Ice applications should last for 10 to 30 minutes until point of numbness. Longer icing periods should be avoided as this could result in tissue damage. Allow skin to return to normal temperature before reapplying an ice pack.

Compression: To decrease swelling and bruising, compression should be applied immediately using a compression or elastic wrap, or athletic tape. Do not apply compression to point of cutting off circulation (a feeling of numbness or tingling). Compression can also be used at same time an ice pack is being applied.

Elevation: Raise injured area to above heart level to minimize internal bleeding and swelling.

Unlike yesterday’s gladiators, today’s weekend warriors who survive trials of running too hard, pitching a no-hitter or shooting too many hoops, are better prepared. With a reusable ice pack in hand and knowledge of R.I.C.E., every warrior can triumph over pain.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical treatment or consultation. Always consult with your physician in event of a serious injury.

When you have answered this question you should take a look at those martial art systems that will enable you to reach your goal. Most schools and systems provide lot’s of information on possibilities they have for students.

One important point here is that you should be very selective and ask around when choosing a martial arts system or school. There are many strange systems out there that only want to get your money instead of teaching you.

The best way to know what school is right for you is to take a look at human and martial arts quality of high level students. Ask yourself: Do I want to be of same level as they are?

This will allow you to narrow possibilities to only a few different systems

Q3. How much do you want to invest in your training?

I do not mean only spending money in tuition fees but also in time. Do you have time to travel to dojo and spend hours needed to train? Are you willing to buy equipment needed? How much do you want to spend on travelling to seminars or tournaments?

This question is as important as previous ones; some martial arts equipment is very expensive like kendo or kyudo equipment, other martial arts are a lot cheaper. How much do you want to spend on equipment.

Next, check out how many schools there are close to you where they teach martial art you selected. VISIT THEM ALL!!!! Talk with instructor, ask him if you can witness a session, look at behaviour of other students, ask if you can participate in a free session to give it a try and make inquiries about tuition and insurance fees.

After visiting ALL of them sit down and write down on a piece of paper pro’s and contra’s of each of them. Take a look at list and compare. Listen to your inner voice and after waiting for at least 1 week decide which school you will become a member of.

By answering these 3 questions and following this guideline you can easily find right martial art for you.