Martial Arts for Beginners over 60
Many active seniors are taking up martial arts training in their 60s, 70s and 80s. This can be a great way to stay in shape, learn new things and meet other people. However, as we age, our bodies become more brittle and thus there is a greater risk of injuries. This wiki does not provide medical advice. Please see a doctor before starting any martial arts or exercise program and/or if you have been injured.
Amazon Books – Martial Arts for People who are 50+
Information for Martial Arts Seniors
- IMPORTANT – Please see a doctor before starting any martial arts program because the level of exercise can be intense. Find out if you are physically fit enough to participate in a martial arts class. Also ask if it will aggravate an existing medical problem (i.e. heart condition, high blood pressure, past knee injury, etc.).
- Consider the risk of injury (i.e. seniors may be less flexible, may have thinner bones, etc.).
- Consider impact on pre-existing medical conditions (i.e. high blood pressure, vision issues, etc.).
- All students should see a doctor if they have been hurt in a martial arts class.
- Benefits of martial arts training include improved balance, flexibility, fitness, etc.
- Consider less vigorous martial arts (such as Tai Chi).
- See if a school is friendly to seniors (i.e. makes allowances for an older student’s lack of flexibility, etc.). Talk to a school’s instructors & students, watch a class, try a free trial class, etc. Consider bypassing schools that are not friendly to seniors.
- Seniors may have slower reaction times than when they were young. Therefore, seniors need focus on individual improvement and not beating every youngster at sparring.
- Seniors may be less flexible than when they were young. Therefore, seniors need to stretch, stretch & stretch some more! Again, seniors need focus on individual improvement and not competing with the youngsters on who has the highest kick.