Am I too old to train in Martial Arts?
As a martial arts instructor, this is one of the most common questions that I have come across while having conversations with people who have found out about my career.
The quick answer to this question is…NO! It is absolutely never too late to begin your journey in Taekwondo, Karate, Kung Fu, or any other form of martial arts you have an interest in. There are a number of reasons why I encourage students of all ages, particularly older students to begin training in martial arts.
Firstly, you don’t need to be able to break bricks, backflip, or spin 360 degrees in the air to become a TRUE martial artist. In fact, these things are far from close to being an important part of a martial artist’s journey.
I would argue that the most important part of one’s journey is their mindset and cultivating a mentality of respect, discipline, and self-control. This is the most important and challenging aspect of becoming a TRUE martial artist.
Nonetheless, here are a few of the major reasons why I believe anyone at any age can start to train.
1. Martial Arts focus on the development of the individual
Martial arts is not necessarily a team sport. Yes, you will be exposed to team-related activities and be given plenty of opportunities to meet lifetime friends, but a lot of the journey will focus on oneself.
Everyone’s journey will be different and people will reach new levels at different times. The instructor’s job is to find a pace that is right for you while still pushing for improvement and personal growth.
This leads to the importance of finding a school that has instructors who will challenge you and help you right your highest potential!
2. Martial Arts is SAFE
The purpose of martial arts is to protect you from harm…not put you in harm’s way.
Taekwondo is a great example of a martial arts style that combines the realms of self-defence and sport. You don’t need to train in front flips or breaking bricks on your first day…or even ever. Just make sure to stretch thoroughly before class, listen to instructors, use common sense, and you can expect to leave every class uninjured and excited for the next!
3. Martial Arts is GREAT for your Mental and Physical Health!
The benefits of training in Martial Arts are HUGE!
a) Increase in flexibility
b) Increase in strength and endurance
c) Cardiovascular health benefits (Your heart needs exercise to survive!)
d) Mindset (learning discipline, self-confidence, control)
e) Self-defence
If this hasn’t convinced you yet, then here is a list of just SOME of the martial artists that started training or are currently training past their 20s, 30, 40s, and even 80s!
Dan Inosanto is a legend in the martial arts industry and trained under Bruce Lee! He is currently 85 years old and still actively trains in numerous martial arts!
The singer Willie Nelson is an accomplished martial artist and didn’t even start until his 50s! He’s over 80 now and still involved!
Keiko Fukuda is the highest-ranked woman in Judo and is considered one of the most accomplished martial artists in the world. She continued to train until she passed away at the age of 99 years old!
Don’t wait and start your martial arts journey today!
