What’s age gotta do with it?
Tuesday 07 May 2024
Good martial arts is age-neutral. In other words, at Meiji there are no age barriers. It’s for everyone, from the tender age of 4. So, does age play any part? Well, of course. A 7-year-old child has different qualities to a 77-year-old senior citizen (unlimited energy for a start!). But regardless of age or gender, there is a common thread running through Meiji Martial Arts – we’re all here to have fun, learn skills and feel great, physically and mentally.
Now fun can be different, and play a different part, across the age groups. Children, for example, are generally boisterous and, left to their own devices, can be undisciplined and sometimes naughty. But that’s because they often have uncontrollable energy, lack of concentration and, frequently, lack of trust. We cater for all of that at Meiji. It’s a myth that children don’t enjoy discipline. When it’s part of the game, when treated respectfully by their Senseis, they can surprise you. They learn and love the rules, because they’re not oppressive but point the way to exciting prospects. And once they’re on that path, achievement kicks in. The next belt is always in sight. Martial arts becomes a game everyone can win.
Clearly martial arts appeals to young men and women. They are a solid core of our membership. But within their age group, there can be different priorities. Some are fiercely competitive and enjoy intensive sparring. We enter them regularly into competitions, and a lot of gold, silver and bronze comes our way. For others, it’s getting and staying super-fit. And for some, it’s learning to look after yourself outside the Dojo. In all cases, though, there is tremendous camaraderie, and many lifetime relationships are forged at Meiji.
What about older, even old? There is no upper age limit at Meiji. So much is available that is extremely beneficial. Stretching and breathing pay extra dividends. Cardiovascular work can easily be tailored to age and individual circumstances. Learning the leverage secrets of Krav Maga can turn a little old lady into a giant-killer! And sparring? Well, you may not want to trade toe-to-toe with a 25-year-old kickboxer, but it doesn’t mean you can’t square up to an opponent. For no-contact, there are pairs, pre-arranged sparring techniques and form-fighting. So, you get used to physical confrontation without physical discomfort, improving your reflexes, building confidence, and giving you something in the tank to deal with the unexpected.
Age is never a barrier in good martial arts. Only attitude. If you can leave your ego in the changing room, you’re guaranteed to have fun on the mat.