I trained for about 2-1/2 years in the Bujinkan and attained a rank of 4th kyu; however, a car wreck and degenerative disk disease caused me to stop training in 2000, and, after much pain and physical therapy, I wish to take it up again now. I am 41 and probably about 10 lbs. heavier than my previous fighting weight. I have spent about 7-8 months in physical training, i.e. swimming, physical therapy exercises, some weightlifting, and practicing solitary basics (punch, kick, roll, kata), and I have just approached a dojo about resuming training. I am still in constant low-level pain, but I am determined to train, as I don't think the pain will ever lessen, and I am not getting any younger. Are there pitfalls I should watch out for, both physically and mentally? I wish to train, but I do not wish to be quickly re-injured to where I must sit out for months and perhaps never get started again. Thanks for your suggestions!
2007-01-22 04:38:39 · 8 answers · asked by Black Dog 6 in Sports ➔ Martial Arts
Hah, i was about to post a similar question, hit refresh on the browser and saw this, so thanks. My situation is entirely different (college and smoking cigs vs physical pain). Some of the answers could pertain to me.
All i can really put forth was there was a guy in my class with back problems, not exactly sure what, but something with a disk and about your age. The instructors were understanding and told him to pace himself and know his limits. He was a tough guy, but wasn't really able to put forth what he needed. He didn't go up in rank for a year. This is my speculation....i know he did reinjur his back.....but i assume this frustrated him and he started going harder which resulted in the back injury.
I'd just say be careful, realize your back might not get better, but it can get worse.
Also at the same time, could be inspiration....some of those hong kong action stars that do their own stunts have very painful injuries but can still perform the task....they also get millions though.
Good luck
2007-01-22 08:03:22 · answer #1 · answered by My name is not bruce 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are doing these practice things as you say. You are already training. Now if you wish to spar in a dojo, I do not think it is wise. Find a friend that is willing to do some light contact sparring with you. Someone whom does not have the egotisticality of most. This way you will still get some much needed touch drills. Now if you just like to be in the dojo, I'm sure any dojo in America will be glad to take your money.
Stay Well!
lr
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2007-01-22 13:07:33 · answer #2 · answered by sapboi 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I kinda had the same problem as you did. I did TKD for 7 years but I tore my acl a few times doing it so I stopped for 3 years. I'm now back doing it in college and some difficulties I mainly had was that I was very inflexible. Also my endurance wasn't too high. But overall I think you should be fine!
2007-01-24 14:43:49 · answer #3 · answered by tkdswimmer 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
One of the guys I work out with with broke his back. He had a black belt in Karate. After he broke his back and reabilitated he went into Judo. He has been doing Judo for several years. I asked him if his back still bothers him he said every day. I don't think that helps you much other than to know that there are people who have made a comeback. He also said Judo was good for him because he knows exactly how to fall.
2007-01-22 13:22:26 · answer #4 · answered by Bruce Tzu 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I doubt theres anything that you really should have to worry about, but just to be on the safe side, I'd talk to your physician about what kind of strain that doing Martial Arts can be to your body in it's current state.
but since your doing physical therapy and weight training, then it should only serve to help you.
But I'm guessing that he might say go ahead and do it, because it might actually do you some good physically.
but still, it'd be good just to see what your physician says first.
good luck
2007-01-22 18:18:47 · answer #5 · answered by quiksilver8676 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Train the best you can. It will be frustrating at first but you must be mentally tough. Do what you can do with your physical restrictions.
Do not give up.
Make sure you pay special attention to stretching and proper form. Maintaining perfect form will lesson the chance of injury.
Good luck and enjoy.
2007-01-22 12:54:51 · answer #6 · answered by spidertiger440 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Neither the layoff nor your age should be a problem. The effects of your accident & disk disease I don't know. That's a question for your doctor.
2007-01-22 18:30:14 · answer #7 · answered by yupchagee 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
just take it as you would with anything else. crawl walk then run. take it easy and get your strength back.
2007-01-22 12:42:25 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋