Is 40 too old to begin studying a martial art ?

Question

I am interested in learning a bit of self-defense, as well as getting exercise. I am healthy, except for the occasional backache or sore knee. What would be a good art to study if I want to avoid heavy duty kicking ?

Answer 1

You are never "too" old to begin the journey that is martial arts training. The journey is not only a physical one, but also a mental and spiritual one. Indeed, in some ways you may have some advantages over the younger folks as you will be a little more mature and hopefully more emotionally balanced.

I just recently welcomed a 54 year old back to training after a long twenty year absence from training. She has a hip problem and some carpal tunnel issues, but has been training now for six months, is loving it, and is one of the most energetic and engaged students in the class.

Martial arts are truly for life. Being a martial artists is engaging in a lifestyle, not a passtime or a sport, thus age, injury, gender, height, weight, and all of those other limiting categories so many people like to use do not apply.

Go for it, sign up with a good school, form a relationship with a quality instructor, and enjoy your study for the rest of your life.

Ken C
9th Dan HapMoosaKi-Do
8th Dan TaeKwon-Do
7th Dan YongChul-Do

Answer 2

40 is definitely *not* to old.

You might consider a more subtle art like Akido or Tai Chi. The up side to these arts are that they are a lot less high impact and, when mastered, can be very effective in a defensive capacity. However, the down side is that both of them are extremely subtle and mastery of even the basics takes a very long time.

If you don't have the patience for the more subtle arts and take things slow until you get your body stretched out and in good condition, being 40 is no barrier to regular martial arts practice in some of the more "external" styles.

Answer 3

martial arts is a great workout at any age. I have study many of the arts. I preferred tae kwon do it does have more kicking but it was the best workout. If you need something with less kicks go for karate or a judo. Look at different schools the instructors make all the difference in the world.

Answer 4

I was a bit over 40 when I started training =) After 5+ years, I am still hitting the mats a couple of time a week! I Love to train! I personally prefer Budo, you train at your own pace and there is minimal emphasis on kicks and kicking =) But, I suggest you try several arts, most schools will allow you to try a class or two, to see which best suits you.

Good luck!

Answer 5

martial arts, when taught and applied correctly, are nothing but beneficial for mind and body. 40 is definately not too old, and forget all this stuff on here about "Never being a master or competing. If you want it bad enough, you'll push through and be fine. Careful during stretches, though> That's the only rough point with age. Otherwise, give it your heart and soul. You'll do fine.

Answer 6

Kenpo is a great self defense Art and it is well known for it's quick hand movements, check out some demos on youtube.com and search a few names like, Frank Soto, Jeff Speakman, Ed Parker and Lee Wedlake. Or you can try your local Martial Arts Supply and phone book.

You are never to old to learn Martial Arts.

Answer 7

I hope not I started when I was 44.

I know all about the sore knees and hips, got a bad hip and one really bad knee (I use a brace on my knee). The best thing to do is go and observe a class and talk to the students, instructors, find a school that is a good fit for you.

Good Luck.

Answer 8

Definitely not. As for your other question, I would say American Kenpo Karate. It is based around and mostly hands strikes and movements, but they do throw in some kicks and knees but they are mostly low kicks to set your opponent off balance or just flat out take him out. As for your bad knee, there is a lot of pivoting and moving your feet, as foot work is essential for any martial art, because it keeps things tight and quick as well as shield yourself for defense to not get hit. So you may want to check that out and see how it goes.

Answer 9

You know, 40 really is definitely not too old to begin. In most schools, especially those that follow belt systems, the activities for beginners are not really too strenuous. Each level is slightly more difficult and more physical than the one before it, so the intensity builds gradually over time. Much later you look back and realize that you never dreamed you could accomplish so much!

Answer 10

I started study in Ba-Gua when I was 43, after years of Judo and TKD. It was PREFECT for me in that it is (I feel) far more effective than anything else I have been exposed to. I feel I am getting better as I get older. The workouts are very strenuous, but not something that you cannot do. I would suggest that you can look into Ba-Gua,Tai chi, Aikido as your age will be a benefit not a hindrance.