Guys i want to start with one of the above mentioned techniques. Can you help me understand what to start and why? My main 2 goals are self-defence and fitness.
I live in Endeavour Hills, VIC so any suggestions/recommendations of institutes around the area will be highly appreciated.
I don't think Kung Fu or Tai Chi would do much for self defence. I wouldn't do MMA as there are so many elements to it and you'd spread yourself thin trying to learn the fundamentals, especially if it's not very serious training.
I would do kickboxing (punches/kicks), muay thai (punches, kicks, knees, elbows, clinching) or wrestling (pick them up and slam/neutralise - most people would have no idea how to defend themelves) for self defence. Kickboxing or muay thai would probably be more fun to learn though. If you can't do either then I would just do boxing, but being able to do a discipline with kicking does unlock a whole new dimension to combat.