Anyone started karate as an adult? Any experiences welcome please

[Yugeen]

I'm currently very overweight, and struggling a bit with my mental health especially anxiety/intrusive thoughts.

I want to start making changes to my life to look after myself more. I'd like to join a club where I can learn a skill but also do a bit of exercise while at it. I prefer the idea of things like dancing, martial arts, yoga etc rather than a more generic fitness class.

There's a karate club literally around the corner and I'm considering it. I don't drive and I think I'm more likely to go if its right there compared to having to get the bus after work etc.

I've definitely always been interested in martial arts, although I've never really considered karate. One thing I notice is that the place nearby (and most actually) tend to have classes with both children and adults together. I've never experienced this with any other hobby.

From the pictures, I'm worried that it's going to be very child-heavy and I'm going to feel awkward joining from scratch as an adult. The website specifically says that its for adults too, and I see that there's adults too but I'm assuming they'll be adults who have done it for a long time. I don't really think of karate as something many people start later in life but I may be wrong!

Im also interested in this. I’ve wanted to learn for a few years but have been nervous about the same thing!

Yes, I did at 54.., Im now 60 and a year or so away from 1st Dan...love it, progress at my own pace, its increased my memory, improved my balance and coordination. Go for it, if its a good club they will support you every inch of the way. I was nervous of being around the kids, but the hardest bit is actually starting. I've now got teenagers wanting to spar against me as they like a challenge! I've won competitions and my trophy shelf needs to grow!

Why don't you ring them or pop in and ask? I'm sure whatever the answer, they will make you welcome. But as you are anxious, I think chatting about the age group and ability for the class you would be joining would be a good idea.

I use our local council sports centre and mostly the yoga, zumba classes etc are really friendly and inclusive for all abilities.

Go for it! I started Taekwondo at 45 and got my Ist Dan (black belt) at 50. I was one of the older ones but not the oldest, and sometimes the only woman (small club) but it was great! Everyone was so welcoming and friendly.
Black belt was the hardest think I have ever done, but I'm prouder of that belt and certificate than my degree 😁
(I gave up a few years ago due to a health problem but honestly...just do it!)

I took up karate as an adult and was initially in classes with both adults and children. It was great for my confidence and I ended up training six days a week. I competed in national and international tournaments. I also lost a lot of weight when I first started.

I did adult classes to brown belt. I loved the katas but found once you got into the higher levels it became more of a lifestyle - not just one class a week and also fighting. It was supposed to be non physical or light contact but I was one of three women so we were often fighting men and quite a few really enjoyed kicking hard!

thank you all. I decided to give it a go so I will let you know how it goes.

Yes I joined last year and it’s my favourite hobby. Ours is a mixed class kids and adults ranging from 4-60+. I really enjoy learning the katas and the light sparring I’ve found good for confidence. I’m usually buzzing when I leave class. Let us know how you get on!

DH took it up with DS15 last year. He has never been sporty but it has been amazing for his physical and mental health. They are lucky to have found a really friendly, inclusive dojo. They go to one mixed aged and one adults only class and prefer the adults only one, although it’s hard work and they come home very sweaty!

I now go with DS to a weekly Krav Maga class. It is waaaay out of my comfort zone, but I love it and always leave on a high (if achy!)

@YugeenDid you do it? How did you get on? I've trained 4 times this week!🙈😂

My son goes karate and there are plenty of adults that join. It’s a lovely group and I karate is centre around respect and discipline at all times. I have been been tempted myself sometimes, though karate is quite performative and I am shy!

I started karate in my 20s and I do remember feeling a bit daft standing next to a row of kids. But I kept going back and it's still going well 25 years later. What I now understand is that new people start every other week or so, and that everyone in the class was new at some point, i.e. I was not nearly as conspicuous as I felt. Loads of people start after seeing their kids give it a go. Have fun.

I'm overweight but was accepted with open arms into the sumo wrestling world 2 years ago. I've had 3 fights and attend class once per week where I mostly stamp my feet and then we all go out to an all-you-can- eat. I'm 76 next month

My ds2 is a kung fu coach. He lives having new members of any age group.