Too Old For Martial Arts? | ART OF ONE DOJO

[@charliesimar7541]

I started training in Shotokan karate for my 70th birthday. I'll be 71 soon and I am feeling wonderful... and I can MOVE!

[@darrensmith3418]

Charlie Simar that’s awesome, I’d train ya

[@ProjectCarthage2004]

Wow that's amazing!

[@yeshuaeselmashiaj6037]

OSS.

[@dragonleg8700]

You're an inspiration to all, stay blessed 🙏🏿

[@drewmule6935]

👌 awesome, great motivator

[@wardragonprime]

I am 65, have a 4th degree black belt in taekwondo, and am still going strong. BOOMER POWER!!!

[@JWMCMLXXX]

I walked into my first Muay Thai lesson at age 41. I only regret not doing it sooner. Changed my life

[@hiteshchand]

I started Kyokushin at the age of 30. I will be 33 in few months. During this time, i was shock to see how fast i learned and became strongest version of me. Prior to joining martial art, I was severely underestimating what i can achieve. I think trust in the process and trust in your Sensei is all you need.. OSU

[@rommiemex9532]

I just started kyokushin at 37. Very little previous martial arts experience, and of average fitness, but I am hella excited for it

[@hiteshchand]

@@rommiemex9532 great, stay persistent and you will surprise to what all you can achive physically

[@tldogmeat]

@@rommiemex9532 don't get kicked in the face anymore than necessary

[@danc.1908]

OSU

[@peteben9635]

Are you still doing kyokushin and how is it going?

[@kevingonzalez3673]

I boxed for years. I am too old to now get hit like I used to. I now take classes that allow me to hit a wavemaster bag and practice footwork. Not the same but still it is something. Better than nothing.

[@ruiseartalcorn]

Great advice! I started training when I was about 6 or 7 years old - I've just turned 60! I have a few dings and dents but overall, I feel great! I lift heavy weights 3 days a week and I can honestly say that I've never been as strong as I am now at any time in my life. I walk (LOTS) , do dynamic tension exercises and practice martial arts daily. "Old age"? Bring it on! ;)

[@elismith3402]

I have been in the martial arts for over 40 years and I highly recommend tai chi.

[@mastersplinter8072]

Life is a circle. I started karate at 15 and will be 53 this year. I would train in my parents basement as a kid growing up, eventually became a Sensei and had my own Dojo for 20 years. Now I no longer teach, but still train in my own basement and my black belt is turning white. Life is a circle.

[@hideentity1518]

You had mistake back then Southern chinese martial art Is way effective than karate For your health when you became old when you Start cracking and cant hold your legs high

[@trsgfsdrgtregfsdfgvsdr2889]

IF YOUR BELT TURNS WHITE IT MEANS YOU ARE A TRUE MASTER I STOPED CARING ABOUT BELTS BUT THE WHITE BELT IS THE BEST ALSO I HAVE A BLUE BELT THAT ALSO HAS FROM THE SWEAT OF HARD TRAINING LOSED A LITTLE BIT OF COLOR

[@Meymeygwis]

Truly Sensei Trace, Life is a Circle: Black Obi gone White, says it all

[@dragonleg8700]

Wow💪🏿

[@Dodgewwwc]

I started wing chun 16 months ago at 37.. I obtained my 3rd grading yesterday and couldn’t be happier, I recommend training at any age

[@ktkt1825]

I began Judo at 57 and loved it, taking an 8 year journey to Shodan. I was vigorous on the mat and did well, but had to stop due to recurring back pain- I miss it all the time. It changed the way I see the world and solving problems in my life.

[@gbsccfig]

I started Uechi Ryu at age 65. That was 9 1/2 years ago and still train 3 times a week. You have to be active if you're physically capable.

[@shevetlevi2821]

I love Uechi ryu. Stay strong Anton.

[@gbsccfig]

@@shevetlevi2821 Passed sandan a month ago at age 77🙂

[@shevetlevi2821]

@@gbsccfig Anton that's awesome. Kanbum, Kanei and Kanmei would be proud.

[@bobroe6429]

I just got my Black belt in Kenpo & I'll be 52 in October. A woman who was also up for testing with me was in her mid sixties. She didn't make past the pretest but with help and support tested and got her Black Belt on the next cycle. There is no such thing as too old if there is enough dedication and determination you can succeed at anything.

[@ArtofOneDojo]

Excellent, and that's a great point you brought up. Just because you don't achieve the goal the first time, work harder, correct your mistakes, and try again. Major credit for her for keeping up with that and I love your viewpoint on this :)

[@socalbeachieboy6135]

@@ArtofOneDojo Its a state of mind. In the end you can be your best supporter and worst enemy

[@bobroe6429]

@@socalbeachieboy6135 couldn't agree more

[@therealcoachross]

#Wellsaid!!

[@TheSubwaysurfer]

my sifu was fifty years old and still practicing when I was in my thirties I am now in my fifties and he is in his seventies and still active

[@chadbennett9517]

My wife and I both recently turned 46 we have an 8 year old son and we all started Shorin-ryu. Our instructor is 68. We go twice a week and love it.

[@Seburo77]

Some years of TaeKwonDo in my teen age, 10 years of Kendo and Iaido in my 20s and now 42 and started Shotokan last year. I'm starting to feel strong again, Oss!! :)

[@tyfirestone]

I was 29 when I started Goju Ryu. I am 32 now, and couldn't imagine my life without it.

[@CaptAzeal]

In October I got my back belt in Tang Soo Do, I was 48. It has been one of my greatest achievements and think it has been worth every moment I have spent studding. I can touch my toes again and have better balance. I can not kick as high as the kids, but I am louder and more focused. It has been great to spend so much time with my sons as they also earned their black belts.

[@BishopBrow]

Learning how to fall properly saved my bacon a few times

[@woodtiger1411]

Such a rich and an empowering question. I am reading everyone’s comments and can see how empowered these people are. So much more “richer” for having this martial arts experience. I myself started in my early teens and stopped several years after that to play indoor volleyball for another 10 years semi professionally. At 35 I found it hard to keep a team together for this or that. I decided to look for something I could do that only needed me to show up - martial arts. Now 45 and after finding a branch of the early grandmaster I was taught under, I now have a strong club/academy and my daughter who is 15 is now a Black Belt. With confidence and understanding I never had at that age. Being older has allowed me to see different perspectives of a technique, which is invaluable when teaching application. Of course don’t let your ego write cheque’s your body can’t cash!!!

[@mysticvisions9810]

I'm almost 56 and I still train. Emphasis changes, but the needs for it haven't changed. Great video. Train/Fight smarter, not harder.

[@rwoodward61]

Im 57 and started Jiu Jitzu at 54. I do competitions 5 to 7 times per year. It is sometimes difficult to find other competitors in my age bracket so be aware that you may have to drop several age brackets if you want to win your medals by ACTUALLY competing instead of just winning by forfeit. On the positive side, I am the OLDEST person and the ONLY person in my class who has ever won a double Gold medal! On the negative side you can expect to get beat up on a regular basis by the younger stronger guys so be ready to tap early and tap often! Or you will be spending a lot of time and money on pain products and pain procedures!

[@gutierrezro1]

Ive practiced taekwondo when i was young, until mid twenties. Now, almost 20 years after i came back to a dojo. First months were tough but im glad i took that decision!

[@rogerwilliams2629]

I am a 60 year old, started martial arts training in 1967. I have had six back surgeries and a major stroke three years ago, was paralysed and put in a nursing home. I am also a Godan, and so looked at it as a puzzle to work out. I concentrated with all my heart on moving my finger, finally did it a month later, then eventually moved everything else and came out if the nursing home in a wheel chair, and now three years later I am still numb on left leg and foot, but i do Kali knife solo drills and parts of kata that I can. I AM a martial artist, I will stop being one when I am dead, not before. My back is broken, my leg is dead, but I am in my master's shadow. I am my master's shadow. (Tak Kubota quote)

[@ArtofOneDojo]

I am so sorry to hear about the adversity you've faced, but I am very happy and proud to read how you've overcome it. Martial arts is something we ARE, not something we DO, and you Sir are the living embodiment of thank, and thank you for setting such a strong and positive example.

[@boerieza]

This is inspiring AF. Well done, sir.

[@live2win4freedom82]

I Started BJJ @ the young age of 57. Prior to that my training consisted in traditional MA like karate 🥋 and Kajukenpo. Body is sore however I am enjoying the journey

[@terryrich9707]

P

[@baydweller8241]

As a lifelong martial artist, I agree with your observations. I am lucky to be currently in a club where the Sensei and many of us senior students are in their 50's. Personal physical limitations are respected, but we do try to do a little bit better every class. After class we joke about finding an orthopedic surgeon that gives group discounts.

[@williamw1332]

What doesn't kill us makes us stronger, crazier, and eventually crippled if we're not careful, and mindful. Old martial artists don't die, they roll off into the sunset...to their dojos in wheelchairs to yell at other students. See you at the dojo damnit!!! 👍

[@jlr11379]

am 60 years old i have been training in kali & silat for 3 years now it has help me with dealing in my movement and coronation flexibility.at level 2 now in kali

[@williamw1332]

@@jlr11379 Awesome! Great to hear that Jerome! 👍😊

[@orlandohenriquez747]

I'm 61 years old and I've been training in Kung Fu, Hung Gar style since I was 53 years old. I used to practice when I was 22 years old (6months) and when I was 30 years old (3 years). Right now; the knees are causing me trouble, also I'm slower. But, as a compensation, I analize most of the movements, applications and fights, which I didn't do when I was younger.

[@kickingitwiththekerofskys8476]

A great master said, "You are never too old to be a bukai." Yes we are never too old to be a martial artist. Look at Masters like Chuck Norris at 82 he still kicks the heavy bag. Look at the story of the 80 year old grandma who got her black belt in Tae Kwon Do. At 58 years old I still keep striving in the martial arts. And will never quit, I will keep moving. Yes it helps keep my balance as I have history of vertigo and an equilibrium imbalance, I got slower but train in the water to build up speed, and have stenosis of the spine so stretch on the ball to help me overcome. The martial arts have been good to me. Great video. Oss.

[@PZMedic]

Great video. I just started Goju Ryu karate in January and I am 46 years old. At first the body complained but now I feel amazing after class. I have some limitations from a spinal injury but the sensei Is flexible in training with me. Besides it is rewarding studying the art with my sons. Even my wife joined in!

[@smithozalis]

I had always wanted to learn martial arts, but life always got in the way, until my kids grew up. I started training in Japanese Jujitsu when I was 54. I am now 58 and have my brown belt. I train twice a week and have to be sure to get to the gym to work on my cardio as well. I am always amazed how I am sucking wind and sweating like a pig and the young guys are hardly out of breath. I am virtually always bruised and sore, but I love every minute of it. At my age you have to know your limits. I always roll, but don’t necessarily go 100% and I know that my knees and hips don’t bend and flex the way they once did. I hope to get my black belt and I’ll keep training as long as my body lets me.

[@Al-zt9gl]

Trained in kenpo karate uk in the 80s, alongside muay thai. Love both arts, but sometimes life gets in the way..work, kids, money time. Started training last year in karate and jujitsu, best decision I ever made. Only compete in point kumite, leave the full contact to the youngsters. Flexibility is harder to get ( I'm 53 ), but getting there. My sensei says, a black belt is a white belt who didn't quit. Hope to achieve my black belt before I'm 60 ( ish).

[@anythingrc995]

After a 30 year break from Goju Ryu Karate, i decided to get back into martial arts after watching my 4 year old son start Taekwondo back in 2017, training is going great i have just earned my Red belt at 47 years old training 4 sometimes 5 days a week. It wasn't easy to start with, i have lost a tone of weight and training hard. Love the channel keep up the great work.

[@carterpksa1929]

I tested for my black belt in Tang Soo Do with a 74 year old man he is the nicest 1st degree black belt I have ever met. I was so honored to train in PKSA with that man.

[@poppunkloser]

33 here and i started Kyokushin a week ago, hurts like hell.

[@ArtofOneDojo]

That's how you know it's working! :D

[@williamsnellings8176]

PAIN is ONLY weakness leaving the BODY!!!

[@Reason1717]

I have a student who is 64, he wanted his whole life to train. When he started he said, "But I've got no flexibility." I had him commit to only 1 stretch a day, giving it 3 mins in total. In one month he touched his toes for the 1st time in his life. Now that his belief changed (that he was not pliable ) stretching can be taught and limitations removed.

[@glenw-xm5zf]

A good stretch program will make you stronger, too. i did a series of stretches that I took from 4 Yoga classes.. and did them daily. after 45 mins, I felt great.. and in the weight room, my poundages went up by a good 10%.

[@Reason1717]

@@glenw-xm5zf , I am glad your strength went up and we both agree stretching has many benefits. I think just the feeling of freedom of movement is huge. Feeling free may come in a longer stride when walking, a quicker turn when moving thru a crowd, picking up trash from the ground with easy and no "effort noise" when doing so. Glen I hope like me you stay true to your stretching, you'll body will thank you. Health and Peace to you :)

[@charleslucas1784]

Beautiful answer!! It's never too late to learn.

[@johnwright3110]

I did judo as a young lad and despite being not very big did pretty well. More than that I enjoyed it. Had to give it up due to arthritic arm and work commitments. At age 59 I was asked to join a karate class. I am now 82 and have indulged in karate ,kubodo and kali. Gaining a few black belts on the way and training with many great Senseis in other disciplines.. I have never done it for belts or any kind of glory .You can do martial arts at any age enjoy it .

[@ArtofOneDojo]

I love this! Thank you for sharing and great job in sticking with it!

[@chris0576]

5th dan TKD instructor 43. Been in martial arts 30 years. I had my hip replaced last year. Many of your statements sounded Very familiar. Great content. Keep up the good work

[@maxmccullough8548]

How the heck does TKD work on an artificial hip? Not judging, impressed.

[@chris0576]

@@maxmccullough8548 The hardest part is building the muscle back. The hip actually has about 25% more flexibility than the non replaced hip!

[@troymartialarts7425]

@@maxmccullough8548 Bill Wallace talking about 4 hip replacements!!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKSwoJ-Kh9uZqZI

[@jeanninecarrasco1325]

I am 47 i began karate shotokan 3 years ago. I feel great, helped me a lot with arthritis and my emotions. My sensei, sempai and my classmates helped me quickly to adopt a good physical level. And of course...attitude.

[@HappyHealthyKarate-Do]

Oss! I hope you're still training.

[@michaelmartinez3893]

I started Shuri Ryu a few years ago at 35 and asked myself the same questions. Now at 38 I am still going strong. Best decision I have made.

[@apsondragon]

☑

[@aspetty]

Started right before my 33rd birthday in Shuri-ryu. I'm 34 and loving every ding I get

[@davidp5229]

2 months into Tang Soo Do, at 55. Krav experience helps...biggest gain for me is in MA spirit and mind.

[@greydragon6215]

I’m a 58 year old karate instructor. I recently stopped my judo training after an injury. As I earn my living using my body, I had to make this hard choice. I am now doing tomiki aikido and having a great time. Also, I liked that you said turn off you tube and go find a dojo. Well done.

[@jasontaranto6359]

I restarted Karate last year, at the age of 40. Can confirm most of the "aging" things Mr Dan talks about. I have gotten better and stronger. Now things don't ache like it did when I restarted. And I am really enjoying the experience.

[@sllimsilvereva3455]

I recommend yoga in combination with a martial art, good for flexibillity. I am now forty and 2,5 years into shaolin kempo. I love it. Great video!

[@rxj0765]

I agree with you there, yoga is a great idea to incorporate with your martial art or any other sport at an older age for that matter..hot yoga or bikram yoga especially

[@danc.1908]

I started kyokushin ...OSU...at 39 now 40 and am in the best shape of my life knuckles tougher ribs tougher I feel more energy less back pain simply put this was a life changing difference

[@user-gz8fk9eo6u]

My story is... I dabbled in karate, ninjitsu and Thai boxing in my teens and twenties. This was due to my idols mainly Bruce Lee. Then from the age of 26 to 43 I did nothing. At the age of 43 I started judo, I am now 48 and I’m 20 points off my competitive Dan grading, which means I’ve won 8 fights and I need to win 2 more. There is a guy at our dojo in his 80’s and he’s still more than a handful. So never too old in my opinion 👍

[@ColonelMarcellus]

Usually it's not a matter of age, but conditions. The presenter is correct: have your health and conditions evaluated and then practice accordingly.

[@dakentaijutsu2010]

I've started the martial arts at the age of 18, my first martial art was Aikido, done that for a few months before I started doing kempo, stopped for a while then returned to kempo, done that for about 7-8 years, stopped then left for Florida, started training in Kyokushin Karate at age 28 (still at it too)

[@_star_90]

I am 49 and I signed up for a Krav Maga class. I really enjoy it. It was a little awkward at first because I was way older than any one else in the class but I've gotten over that. For the most part, Most of the students encourage and acknowledge my effort with fist dabs. Especially after sparring. I was training on my own at home for about 6 months before that but the class has really pushed me and I've lost some weight while doing it.

[@faisalagarbaa1]

Started taking Shotokan Karate classes 2 months ago. I am 34 and never giving up.

[@danite620]

I'm now 74 . I started at 58 . I have of course slowed down a lot . But I haven't thrown in the towel yet . It seems to keep me a step ahead of most of my peer group as far as being flexible and mobil .

[@tonioyendis4464]

I started Kyokushin training at the age of 56, and I didn’t earn my brown-belt until 60. I train and spar with other black-belts and they don’t take it easy on me, and they respect that I can hold my own. I can’t do flying spin kicks and all that fancy stuff. I train within my limitations and the way i will need to defend myself in real-world scenarios. I have about two kicks that I train on everyday. Like the saying goes, don’t fear the man that has practiced ten thousand kicks, fear the man that has practiced one kick, ten thousand times!

[@kairazor9703]

I'm 44 and just recently started Choi Kwang Do, a derivitive of Tai kwon do, basicily the same but some of the movements are softer to not cause as much joint injury, its great for keeping fit and regaining flexibility

[@errnapo]

I really love your videos Sensei, and I love American Kempo, unfortunately there are not Kenpo schools as far as I know in my home country in the Dominican Republic. Currently I am in Okinawan Goju Ryu style brown belt level. Hope some day being able to bring the Kenpo system into my country. All the Best Oss !

[@tokenstandpoint93]

I actually want to take Goju Ryu around my 4th or 3rd mudansha; but where I currently live at it's not an option. That said Shorin Ryu dojos are around my area, while not the same Okinawan style it's more circular then Oyama (Kyokushin off shoot) Karate which I feel both will make me a more balance karateka. Osu!

[@dougpettit2579]

Great thoughts, thank you. I am 48 and started Kenpo about 7 weeks ago...living out many of your observations.

[@drummerden101]

I have recently started training in Kenpo.My first and 2nd session I was very vocal about earning a Black belt.It has been almost 3 months training 3x a week,and that "goal"is not even an afterthought now.Im 48 and in good health my best metaphore for how to describe my journey now is;every time I enter our Dojo I'm bringing an empty 5 gallon bucket with me,and every time I leave I'm adding a single grain of sand to said bucket.I understand that bucket will never be full,and belt ranking does not mean anything to me rite now.Im happy to have mind,body,and soul discipline and self confidence.Everything else will fall into place in time.I enjoy your videos Sensei.Thank you and Namaste.

[@DraccoDragonSlayer]

I've been training Kenpo for the last year and a half (I am 46 y.o.) and I'm ready to get my next promotion to blue belt. My ultimate goal is to get my Black Belt before I turn 50, I am only taking care with previous sport injuries and a torn muscle in my chest (precisely obtained during a combat), other than that, I still feel great and I love Kenpo!

[@armonianumerica5830]

40 years old here, 2 years already in kickboxing ready for my orange belt, feeling great and getting back to the gym in a few weeks. Also doing some muay thai on the side. Age is nuthin but a number people..blessings

[@Rickdoesshotokan]

I read a article once that a 80 year old woman got her black belt in goji ryu karate

[@mysteryskate8996]

Gonna be 33 next month, never done any martial arts but now more than ever martial arts has been catching my interest but im still undecided of which art to choose either mma or kyokushin karate. Great video and very inspiring.

[@maxv9740]

42 years old here, together with my 7 year old son doing karate. Not only enjoying the martial arts but also enjoying sharing my love for martial arts with my son. And no, I do not consider myself old, even when my sensei and other students are much younger than myself.

[@bryankelley2992]

I'm 39 and just started taekwondo 2 months ago. I didn't realize how out of shape I was until I went through a couple conditioning classes. Since then I have quit smoking, soda, and cut the bad foods out of my diet. I also started drinking more water and eating healthier. I'm slowly getting more flexible and am feeling so much better.

[@Fratm]

Turned 50 this year, and started training.. Been about 25 years since I trained before.. Enjoying it, but the work outs are kicking my butt. Great video and very encouraging.

[@FloridaMan1976]

I'll be 43 next month. I joined my local American Kenpo Karate school six months ago and I absolutely love it. I've always been a thin 6ft guy. So far I've gained 20lbs in muscle mass and my flexibility is getting better. Not to mention that my energy level has me feeling like I'm 30 again. I highly recommend joining and sticking with it. I'm in it until I just can move anymore.

[@bernardortiz7351]

I have been training on and off for the better part of 25 years. I recently received a second degree black belt in the art I study and note that while a teenager tested beside me, his dad and the other advanced belts are more or less older than me. Yes, much comes down to “what it is that you want to achieve” and yes, your instructor is also very important. But, just because 50 or 60 is either on the horizon doesn’t mean that training is off the table. Go for it, find a home that works for you, and “do it”. You may find that being older gives you a very different perspective on the moves... and this is very valuable! Finally, be realistic- those of us over 50 aren’t likely to be MMA contestants- but we can bring to a match a level of maturity that you don’t find with a teenager.

[@Scorch1028]

Many older people who are just beginning martial arts can benefit from training with a cane. There are programs dedicated to “just the cane.” I’ve also heard of older people deriving therapeutic benefits for their joints from training in “Jo-Do” (4-foot long staff).

[@Manny671]

Master Dan thank you very much for this video, I did judo back in 1974 as a little kid but for a quite short time period, then in 1983 I began TKD and did it for almost 35 years with ins and outs, now at almost 52 yo I am practicing and learning Kenpo Karate Americano de Ed Parker and love it! Yes I am not a child anymore and can't kick as high as I did when I was a teen, yes I can't jump and spin as well as I did in my early days but this not pull me down a little bit. I really enjoy what I am doing today, and I keep training three nights a week.

[@lkj098lkj]

GOOD TOPIC. I am 46. I am doing judo and aikido nowadays. I am glad to see your challeges over other arts as i feel like we are in the same boat. Actually this topic is one of my dilemma. My original arts were TKD and Hapkido.. Yes, i cannot do the flying kicks any more and not much flexibility left. And i am not sure how long i can do judo. it is such a shame that i couldnt maintain my skill levels as black belt. However, I need to admit i am getting old too :) i just want to keep doing martial arts ; especially without Injuries.. In between, thank you for sharing your video; i thought he crashed your nuts by the front kick. :) keep them safe :)

[@johnstewart7059]

I'm 69 70 in 3 months Started at 62 with Choi Kwang Do 68 with Tang Soo Do 68 Tae Kwon Do Type II diabetes Hypertensive high BP But, it's great. I feel great. And wife loves the muscle tone

[@martinraeside]

I started korean martial arts about 18 months ago at the age of 64. My previous experience was a bit of karate when I was at school. Im not as flexible now, and lack the explosive energy required for jump kicks, but Im a bit more flexible than last year, much fitter, and enjoying a fascinating sport. I also enjoy the friendships and the whole social aspect, doing what I can to support my club and being part of a team, helping one another learn. As for the self defence aspect, - Im fitter, more alert, have a bit more of a spring in my step, it can only be better than where it was.

[@rtyler1869]

I did Goyu Ru in my late teens and after over 30 years have some back to Karate at 50. Feeling it back it will be rewarding

[@urbantreesteve2805]

Excellent, thank you.

[@harveylangston-jones1718]

I started shotokan karate at 60 at the dojo my son goes to (10years old), i used to do wado ryu up to intermediate level but gave up after three years because of work commitments. I now go 4 times a week for 2 hr sessions with much passion. I'm about to turn 64 and just achieved my black belt. I can highly recommend any form of martial arts for anyone my age but please start slowly but give it 100%.

[@ShihansDojo]

Great video. I have been doing martial arts for over 46 years and agree with you wholeheartedly, and its a question I run across quite a lot.

[@joekestel909]

I have been a martial artrist from my early years. I am 46 and had a total hip replacement a year ago kept me out of training healing from the surfery. I may not do so many high or spinning and flying kicks any more or as well training allot in the horse stance do to the feeling of my knees. I still train regularly whether its doing basics, shadow boxing, some grappling mat training or the fundamentals of weapons arts I don't need for street defense. some times less is more and sometimes you can still go full out. I stay moving and in action

[@richardimmell5688]

I am 43 and though I trained when I was in my 20's took a long break from the martial arts (with a brief resurgence 4 6 years ago when I trained with a co-worker). I am now studying again and in a different style than when I was young. For almost 2 years, I have been studying again. I was lucky to find a local Kobudo instructor and really enjoy learning the ancient Martial Arts. Some of it isn't really applicable to today, but much of it is, and the history and philosophy is awesome. Mr Dan is right, if you are interested in the martial arts, talk to your Dr. and get out there and find the style you want to learn. It's great! Looking forward to class tonight.

[@blainetrahan2287]

I started at 45 and it was the best decision I ever made.

[@andrewmncedisidube5636]

I'm 46yrs old and just started shotokan karate. I'm feeling good, katas and stances makes me feel good

[@hazzeman66]

I started training Shotokan Karate at the age of 15. After two years I took a pause - a 35 year long pause. But I'm back, okey it takes longer time to remember the kata. But now I will not give up, I've set up a goal with my sensei that I should try for the black belt before I'm 60. I'm at 4th kyu now and have six years before I turn 60. So here we go...

[@ArtofOneDojo]

Never give up my friend :)

[@newheightsmartialarts2857]

Great vid. Keep them coming.

[@Grapplersenpai]

We have people in my MMA gym and karate dojos that start at 50 to learn to effectively move themselves and for fitness.... You most likely won't be a NAGA or ADCC champion of Olympic gold medalist but you'll sure make some friends.... PS.... As a teenager I was the same.....I wanted flashy kicks but now that I'm 20 I know better

[@shumookerjee293]

This comments section is really inspiring! Great to see so many of us "Old Timers" out there! I stared training in Muay Thai at 35, then parkour at 40. At 53, I'm in my 5th year of Mizhou Louhan Kung Fu. The only thing I've noticed as that a) my kicks aren't nearly as high as they used to be (torso height as opposed to head height) and b) it takes longer to recover from an injury. Otherwise, I'm still pretty quick, fit and hard to hit!

[@tldogmeat]

it depends on the person and the art. I can no longer do muay thai, but i now do light weapons training...

[@mjspice100]

I have started training in Shotokan karate at the age of 58 after a triple heart bypass 14 months ago. I did get to 6th kyu in Wado Ryu but stopped training. I've gone back to the beginning as a white belt, it wasn't necessary to do that but I felt it was best. I have type 2 diabetes and 3 months ago had two prolapsed discs in my back. My physio said that movement is good. Know your limitations. Don't expect to be moving like you did in your twenties. Stop if you get tired or out of breath. But you will be able to more than you think.. Enjoy the ride. Life is for living...

[@_Pauper_]

You’re a hero🙏🪷📿 I mean that sincerely

[@cornellwaters9089]

🥋 Thank You!

[@scottzappa9314]

I started martial arts in earnest when in my mid 20's. I did a fairly wide variety of arts, including tai chi, Shaolin, wing chun, aikido, JKD, but I started in Shorin-Ryu karate. That was for roughly a period of 14 years. After that I didn't really practice much at all for about 25 years. Now I'm doing an Aikido based system, Tomiki, which has a lot of judo, but also a lot of the mother style of Daito-Ryu jiu jitsu. Which is much more realistic than Aikido alone, plus it has some Judo in it. There's also other black belts that have Philippine, JKD, Japanese martial arts, others. But I like being able to not smash somebody's face and have some more mild form of restraints and defenses if that's all it calls for. After first having tried to have a conversation. Oh, I'm 63 now, and every day I ask myself if I can do it or get better. Roger is 73 and doing Judo, so... And Sensei claims that doing the rolling and falls repeatedly is good for the back, what we all want to hear.

[@genebuszka4489]

Really like the format of your videos and content! Please keep sharing!

[@pausetapemedia7942]

I am 53 and i study Kokikai Ryu Aikido but before that i trained in Boxing and Tang Soo do and kickboxing and BaGua Zhang. Do aikido is good but you have find a great school and Teachers

[@lindamcmillin3464]

All my life I have been physically active first with running, than weight lifting, later in my 50's I joined a crew rowingclub. At age 62 after watching my daughters do karate for a couple years, I decided to it was time to try American Karate. I am very careful to warm up well before class and somedays I need to wear a sleeve around the knee for extra support but it's going great. Beside the physical part it is great for the mental also. My girls now joke mom loves karate more than they do.

[@jtilton5]

Hi from Bangkok, one aspect to also keep in mind when teaching older students is their ability to memorize, the old adage "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" is not accurate but I have seen with several elderly students it takes them a little longer to remember the body mecanics of a technique than it does younger students and kids. (Oh man, kids are like sponges, you really got to watch what you teach them, or you will get complaints from parents and teachers and neighbors ect.) I always try to work with our elderly students in our dojo before class to help them polish their basics ( kihon waza) it seems to really help them when it's time to practice new movements.

[@hamzadesidragonsarwar]

Coming from a foundation of kickboxing/Krav Maga when I was 25 I left martial arts at 27 and started again at 31 it was hard moving at the speed I could move but it helped me spiritually and mentally and I don’t feel like a 60 year old at 31

[@DavidLee-no9uc]

I began my Martial Art's journey in 1965, as a 5 year old student in JUDO,,,, in 1974 I began my study in TAEKWONDO.,,, I earned my Black Belt in 1987..... ( 13 years later ).... After earning 5 Dan's / degree's of Black belt in TKD I decided to learn KENPO KARATE and earned my BB there as well.. . ... also cross training in NINJITSU, MUAY THAI, HAPKIDO, & ESCRIMA.... at 58 years of age I began learning Brazilian JIUJITSU!... after 2 years there I earned a Blue Belt... at the end of the day... and at 63 years of age I've earned 13 Dan's / Degrees Black Belt overall... 58 years training... No intention of quitting ever!.. Oss

[@jamesgibson3582]

Learning breakfalls in judo as a teenager has saved me from serious injury a number of times, most recently in my late 50's on concrete. Nice roll and right back up again. Got a great 'way to go, I'd be dead if that was me' by a guy walking his dog. Untrained people do not fall well. I train kyokushin now, not as many breakfalls in that, but enough I guess!

[@ArtofOneDojo]

Learning how to fall right is just as important and anything else! I was playing paintball once, head to toe gear and walking down a dirt path and my foot stepped into a divot and I lost my balance. Instead of face planting...in full gear and holding my paintball marker I committed to the fall and jumped forward into a shoulder roll and rolled right back onto my feet. Saved me embarrassment at the least or injury at the worse.

[@KennyBaptista]

Good video. I got my 1st degree Black belt in Kenpo in 1972. For several years after that I was in the Air Force and taught beginners for several years. Later with the responsibility’s if raising a family and no Kenpo in the area I lived, I did enough for self defense. Finally on my job I had a torn Achilles’ tendon and continuing to work with a leg brace my hips got bad. I developed sever arthritis in both hips and got so bad I had to retire early because I was using a walker and not far from a wheel chair. Last year through the VA I had 2 hip replacement surgery’s. Next month I will be testing for my orange belt in Taekwondo( no Kenpo near). Most of the kicks I can’t do and some I never will be able to do but the teachers are great and they let me work at my ability. I still practice Kenpo on my own.(easer on the legs). I’ll be 67 in 6 weeks. My goal, a black belt in Taekwondo and getting up to speed in Kenpo. My biggest problem besides vastly different legs under me is not trying to keep up with the younger folks fitness wise. But keep in mind that seniors are targets for punks and I don’t want them to be short changed in the life lesson category.

[@ArtofOneDojo]

Good for you for sticking with it! The hip replacement can be a game changer if you've had serious pain. I know a few people in that boat, and they all told me how much better they felt afterwards and how well they can move. You don't have to do all the fancy kicks as long as what you are learning you can make effective for yourself. I love your attitude and your drive, and you're right, unfortunately older people are a target and I love hearing stories of punks getting their rears handed to them by someone they underestimated :)

[@KennyBaptista]

Art of One Dojo One thing that comes up all the time In discussions of bad hips is the pain even among the doctors. But the pain was not the most important part in my way of seeing it. I’ve had 4 broken arms, broken bones hurt worse. No one ever talks about losing 90% of your mobility. Of only being able to lift your foot 4 inches off the ground no matter how hard you try. The disadvantage of artificial hips is they will dislocated in certain positions, so you can never go there. But getting most of your mobility back is worth it, and by the way they are not pain free. But those of you out their with new hips check with your doctor like I did and if he says no way and you do it anyway just remember there will always be risks so learn where not to go. I’m not telling you to go against your Dr. I had 2 different Drs and 2 totally different hips , thanks to the VA, and one Dr said no and the other said ok but know the limits. So? After all you are responsible for your own health in the end. Make wise informed decisions .

[@jeff2545mp]

I'm a 36 year old white belt in Ryu Kyu Kempo, I'm taking this journey with my 7 year old son and 4 year daughter, its a great way for a family to do something together. I think it helps my children when they see me push through some of the challenges.

[@jeff2545mp]

Update, I hold the rank of Shodan in Ryu Kyu Kempo, hoping to get my Nidan in June (2024) and my now 12 year old son is studying for his Jr. Shodan and my 9 year old daughter is a blue belt. My wife even joined us for about 2 years getting up to purple belt before she decided she didn't like getting hit. I'm now 41 years old.

[@donl3634]

I enjoy your videos Mr. Dan. I watched "Origin of Kenpo", Evolution of Kenpo" and now this. Fantastic job.

[@jakmak52]

I started martial arts in 1994 at 41 years old with 2 titanium rods in my lower back, a total reverse left shoulder replacement and a partial right hip replacement. I never looked back. There were certain challenges I had to overcome. I went on to win 1st place in the US Open World Martial Arts Championships in 1999 in Orlando, Florida. I’ll never regret my decision to pursue a career in the martial arts. If I can do it, you can do it.

[@ArtofOneDojo]

That's amazing, and a fantastic example of making it work for you. Congratulations on the win!

[@TheInfantry98]

Badass

[@TheBassManimal]

I'm 34, I have an instructor level in Wing Chun from 2001, took up gym after that, ruined my flexibility and cardio endurance and now after 15+ years of no Martial Arts, I decided to sign up last week at a Shukokai Karate school for fitness, flexibility, cardio, goal setting and fun. Absolute best thing I've done!

[@IronFox365]

A person is NEVER too old or too disabled for Karate.

[@claytonbreaux4370]

Awesome Mr. Dan I'm looking forward to seeing the video

[@njiuma]

Aren't Ralph Macchio & William Zabka of Karate Kid & Cobra Kai in their 50's & still training? Also, my Shifu is 65 and performs every demanding action he trains - it's quite amazing to see him delivering roundhouse kicks, demanding takedown routines & multiple block/punch/kick etc. routines - he performs the actions he demands with us in each 90 minute class - it's great to see & difficult to keep up with him.

[@ArtofOneDojo]

Ralph Macchio never trained. He only did choreography for the movies and show but he's not a martial artist in real life.

[@njiuma]

@@ArtofOneDojo - I read that Billy Zabka is a purple belt. Amazing that RM still doesn't know Karate or train.