What makes a martial art ideal for older people?

[Ondrejmatej]

I’ve heard from several people over the last year tell me to stay away from certain arts. They claim once you’re 40, it’s all downhill from there lol.

Everyone ages differently and I don’t see the connection. Surely Tai Chi is one art that comes to mind that is easy on the body. However, one can still box or wrestle if you approach it more from a workout or conditioning manner. Shadow boxing or cardio boxing etc.

I had a guy at an MMA club tell me he stopped doing the striking arts (Muay Thaiin this case), and now only does BJJ.

I think folks overthink this. It’s all movement. It comes down to how competitively you train and want to use it. DB has posted videos of the older boxers at his gym. I’ve also seen 70 year old MT guys. I find a lot WC proponents seem to make the argument that it’s an art you can practice well into the later part of your life.

Choose a martial art form that’s best for your priorities and goals, and stick with it for months or years to see the best results.

 

[Swanson]

Good on you
Keep going