Ive been involved in martial arts for the last 20 years. Competed at Area, National, European, and World Championship level and was in the GB squad. Retired from competition in 1997, ranked top fighter (Middleweight) in Britain, 2nd in Europe and 3rd in the World. Fought in Los Angeles in 1996, and was presented with my trophy by Richard Bustillo, one of Bruce Lee's original students
That was a full contact art called Eskrima, the national sport of the Philippines. You batter your opponent with a 28" rattan bamboo stick over three one minute rounds. Doesnt sound a lot but when you're being hit anywhere between 5-12 hits per second, it takes quite a bit out of you.
Still do Thai boxing to keep in shape.