Could I train my body to do the splits at 44?

Question

I'm fairly supple and not overweight and would like to be able to do the splits, not to mention handstands and cartwheels. Is this possible at 44?

Answer 1

Firstly make sure the pain in your knee is nothing sinister! 1. Warm up with joint rotations, then some cardio for around 10 mins - this could be some running, skipping, shadow boxing etc. 2. Do every one of the kicks you know as low and slow as possible - i.e knee height. 3. Gradually build up the height where you're kicking as high as you can - as slowly as possible! This will be considerably lower than you do at full pace. 4. Train your kicks - simply work your kicks like you do at training. 5. Stretch - Stretch each muscle group from your hair to your toenails in turn. Concentratre on your legs - the hamstrings, quadriceps, groin if you like. For some decent stretching routines check out Youtube. Relax and enjoy. Not everybody is built the same and head kicks are not necessary to be a good fighter. Work at it and it will come.

Answer 2

Sure it is!!!

It could take more time that of what it takes a 5 years old, but it can be done, specially if you are supple and fit.

You will have to work on your elasticity and strenght, and technique in order to be able to do all you want, but you will achieve your goal if you stick to a good training routine.
A good gym monitor would be advisable as they know the proper technique to do the exercises and what needs to be strong and how to gain the necessary flexibility.

It is more a matter of natural ability and training than of years.
44 is not old, just ask someone who is in his mid seventies or eighties!

Answer 3

I always wanted to be able to do the splits but gave up. I am a little younger than you but I don't think age should really be too much of a barrier, (unless you were about 90 then I would advise caution). Anyway I then got a keep fit instructor who seemed quite evil, always pushing me, (I didn't appreciate it much). A load of new people came to our class, (very fit people), and the workout was truely sadistic but she had taught me well and I kept up. They were all a lot younger than me and were really having trouble. Anyway towards the end of the sesion she said and now we will all do the splits. I said I couldn't and she said she had taught me and got me to a point where I could, and I did. You just need the right exercises and someone or something to spur you on. It's definitely possible.

Answer 4

Yes. But its going to take a good few years!

You need a good yoga class, Ashtanga or Iyengar. Splits and handstands form some of the asanas so you get taught how to work into them.

I'm in my 30s, I can now do the splits, but I'm a good year or so off an unsupported handstand (balance is okay, by ab muscles are rubbish!)

Answer 5

Of course! Just be careful and take your cartwheels smooth. Doing a lot of hamstring stretches should help you too!

Good luck!

Answer 6

You should try taking an adult gymnastics class. They will start you out with the basics and you can progress. Gymnastics is great for strength building and flexibility.

Answer 7

Definitely, take it slow and if you are doing it on your own keep a phone in your pocket just in case you get stuck. Good luck.

Answer 8

O.k....I'm 42 and would never attempt this myself. But, I would take it slow in stretching the muscles to get there. It hurts longer at our age! You go girl!

Answer 9

It sure is. It'll take awhile longer than if you were a teenager, but it's very doable.

Answer 10

yes you can do it just practice every day good luck