Ki-Aikido is Ageless
You've started doing some research about martial arts. You've ruled out a few. Now you are wondering if you can do Ki-Aikido at your age.
You Won't Be the Oldest
Don't worry about being the oldest in class. Odds are, you will be the youngest. The fact that the average age at our dojo is approximately 59 years old is proof that anybody can practice this art and reap the benefits well into their senior years. Some of us started in our early 30s, some closer to the mid to upper 40s. I was 42 when I got my introduction to Ki-Aikido.
Dusty Running Shoes Are Fine
It is ok if your running shoes have collected a little dust. You are still capable of doing Ki-Aikido. There will be moments when you will huff and puff on the mat. Gently getting back into shape and learning something new were some of the reasons you were considering getting into martial arts. In a short amount of time, you will start to breathe easier.
About Bumps and Injuries
In training we focus on both the attacker (uke) and defender (nage). We teach the uke how to move in a way that prevents injury, and nage how to execute the art in such a way that it protects the uke. This cooperation helps reduce the risk of long-term injuries. We can't throw you if you are hurt.
I am not saying there won't be bumps and aches along the way. Part of the uke training is learning how to roll properly. Learning that skill will take some time. You may hit your shoulder a bit too hard or your head may bounce off the mat. As a result, the rolls will feel like you are a square rounding off the corners. Heck, there are still days I feel like I am rounding the corners of my rolls. These are minor reminders that you need to continue to practice.
In an attempt to reduce these aches, our training is progressive. Rolling training will start on your knees. It's hard to hurt yourself when you are on your knees. Once you are comfortable, you move to standing rolls. To minimize injury, we reduce momentum and practice techniques static.
Age Isn't the Barrier
Don't let age hold you back. Our founding head instructor, Tsubaki Sensei, started training Ki-Aikido at the ripe old age of 48. I started regular Ki-Aikido practice at the age of 57 and received my black belt when I was 65. I consider myself fortunate that I started Ki-Aikido when I did and did not let age become a factor in my decision. If we can do it, you can too.
Ki-Aikido is rewarding, but you have to step on the mat. All it takes is the courage to try.
Ready to step on the mat? Reach out and let us know when you'd like to attend.