Martial arts after 40

[baronbvp]

I just purchased and read a book of this name written by Sang H. Kim. Save your money - there is nothing new here. My review is on amazon.com. Too bad, the title is full of potential.

Anyone out there have any glaring changes to their style, technique, or training regimen once they entered their 40s?

[bushido_man96]

I rather liked that book, baron. Sorry to hear you didn't. It really is a lot of common sense...I think it is just that many older practitioners want a magic pill, so to speak. There just isn't one, though.

[badclams]

Wow so many changes now ! I'd say I'm more disciplined and patient #1. not going heavy as often on my lifts, working more on endurance and diets too. great subject bump !

[JackCrevalle]

I remember that when I started in the martial arts being 6'2" and over 200 pounds I was usually singled out for demonstration purposes.

Now I'm not.

[baronbvp]

I'm always reminded of Indiana Jones of finally shooting the guy with the whip. I've seen many older martial artists spar younger ones who obviously think their win will be easy. The older guys (and gals) move around lightly and calmly in basic fighting stance, not wasting energy. The youngsters are all motion and attitude. They attack with fast, blustery blows as the older ones defend and watch, learning.

Before long, a short, sharp combination sends the youngster sprawling, surprised.

I love it!

For me, I have stayed about as fast as I was so far, which is one of my advantages for an older guy. I am not as flexible so it takes me awhile to warm up. I can't afford to get a serious injury, so I just will not spar someone who's looking for a domination experience on the old guy. I set ground rules where I don't get thrown hard or bent weird or struck in a joint, etc.

It's all about my learning now, and that of my partners. I do what I want within the curriculum instead of just following someone else's program. I have much more fun now than when I was younger.

[baronbvp]

Bushido, I think the topic is great, I was just hoping for more from the book. I think there is a need for a detailed book about older martial artists and how things change. Example topics could include:

1. Fight avoidance and conflict deescalation (older people accosted by younger ones)

2. How to actually train, spar, and fight if you have a chronic injury such as knee, back, ankle, etc.

3. Changes in typical dojo curricula for older artists

4. Etc

Ideas?

Baron

[Akaratechick]

I read the book (checked it out at the library) and I think it depends on where you are in your martial arts training as to its value. It did have some essential information that we sometimes overlook as we train. I remember reading that we should be able to maintain our flexibility as we age or even increase it. That impressed me enough to buy another of his books, Ultimate Flexibility, which I have used religiously since and I believe it was one of the tools that helped me regain my flexibility in my back after surgery.

Regarding any changes after 40, it's hard to say for me since I started at

34 Seems like I have less energy in the evening before class at 7pm. I had back surgery a year ago so I'll let you know in a couple of years

[bushido_man96]

Bushido, I think the topic is great, I was just hoping for more from the book. I think there is a need for a detailed book about older martial artists and how things change. Example topics could include:

1. Fight avoidance and conflict deescalation (older people accosted by younger ones)

2. How to actually train, spar, and fight if you have a chronic injury such as knee, back, ankle, etc.

3. Changes in typical dojo curricula for older artists

4. Etc

Ideas?

Baron

1. I think that this was avoided because Dr. Kim was focused on physical training, as opposed to this. However, it is important, and cross has quite a few ideas on the subject, if you send him a PM. These skills are important for anyone, MA or not.

2. Focusing more on simplicity and economy of movement, I would say here. Some things will change, like maybe the height of kicks, or endurance levels.

3. Curriculum changes.....hmmm, tough one for me. I don't want to say make it easier, because most older adults don't appreciate getting a cop out. However, instead of sparring for so many rounds, demonstrate practical self-defense in a real-life scenario. Again, important for all, but younger atletes would rather show off and board break.

4. ummmm, don't know for sure. Creative juices don't flow too well for me. The importance of using your surroundings, and getting others around you involved could be of use...

[baronbvp]

Ahh, very good. A curriculum change (or change of focus) I would recommend at my old dojo would be more time with practical application, and less on "fun" or games. Personally, I would love to spar more. "Too much" contact was not something I experienced. Most older folks wouldn't want that, especially if it risked injury.

Karate Chick, good words. Another great book is The Genius of Flexibility by Bob Cooley. It is not specifically targeted at martial artists, though. I'll check out Dr. Kim's Ultimate Flexibility.

Anyone else have thoughts on training after age 40?

[cnada]

Anyone else have thoughts on training after age 40?

I'm nowhere NEAR 40 (and I won't even BE 40 for another 15 years), but I'm planning on training after 40.