Over 45? Why Choose Martial Arts
©Lloyd Fridenburg, 2007
Ever sat in your easy chair watching an action flick and thinking how great it would be if you could do those things? Well starting to train in the martial arts is certainly not the impossible dream for those of us that are a bit grey around the edges. It does however require you to set realistic expectations.
Maybe it’s something you always wanted to do, or perhaps you’re looking for an activity that will provide a high degree of physical fitness while teaching a skill at the same time. Or maybe you’re just tired of sitting on those bikes and treadmills that go nowhere. Martial arts will definitely provide you with physical fitness, increase your strength, and enhance your overall flexibility. But, you will get much more.
A quality martial arts school can change your life, because you will soon come to realize that martial arts is a way of life; not merely a form of exercise or method of self defense.
Older adults thinking about martial arts training are often concerned about the physical aspects of the training. After all you are entering into an activity that will teach you how to punch, kick, and grapple, and we just don’t mend as quickly as we did in our prime. I want to state unequivocally right now that training in the martial arts is one of the safest most rewarding activities you will ever participate in. Statistics prove that you stand a greater chance of being seriously injured playing baseball, basketball, or even cycling than you do in the martial arts.
There are a lot of styles, schools, and instructors out there to choose from. Be sure to perform your due diligence and thoroughly evaluate potential schools. Watch some classes and be sure you are comfortable with the school, the style, and the instructors before signing a long term contract.
You will learn to defend yourself; you will become more flexible than you ever dreamed; and your overall level of physical fitness will increase dramatically. And, you will likely experience a significant decrease in your overall stress level.
Remember…you’re never too old to start! Age is merely a state of mind.
Sifu Lloyd Fridenburg is a 3rd Degree Black Sash in Shaolin Kung Fu with nearly 20 years of experience. He is also a freelance writer and author of two martial arts books, “A Martial Arts Primer for Parents”, and “Middle Aged Warriors”. Both books are available as e-books at www.martialartsyoungandold.com .
