The title of this post is a little misleading. Prior to this year, I’ve taken many things in my life seriously. Yet, this year I will mark half a century, and I think it’s worth it to contemplate where I’m going from here. Enter Taekwondo.
I started as a white belt in Fall of 2022. I’ve come so far; however, everyone who trains with me would confirm that I have a LONG way to go. This year, there is a national championship within a reasonable distance from where I live. I have access to elite coaches who are willing to indulge my desire to compete. I’m also surrounded by elite athletes who are willing to be my training partner. That means something.
So, now is the time. I’ll confess, though, I am nervous. If I get injured, it’s not a simple “rest for a few days” to get better. It seems wise to ask myself: “Is this a good idea, or not?” While contemplating that right after the new year, I read an article by George Dimetriou, who has practiced martial arts for 40 years, on getting fit in the year 2025. For us “ultras” who are considering competition at this late hour (of life), I think some of his points are worth considering.
Some things are important for us all
The first few items on Dimetriou’s list of New Year’s resolutions are standard suggestions that are important for all of us (kids included). Get enough sleep. Stay hydrated. Eat well. Move. He also suggests increasing the challenge associated with our chosen activities. For example, add weights or include a hill in your walk. These are all great ideas that we should be striving for and modeling for our children.
Some things we notice more as we get older
When I was (much) younger, I was a bit of a gymnast. Don’t misunderstand, I was never very good. BUT, I could do things on, say, a balance beam that would terrify me today. I can NOT imagine even attempting such a thing at this point in my life. My balance is not what it used to be, and I sometimes lack an indomitable spirit. Luckily, the martial arts, specifically Taekwondo (but likely all of them), require a ton of balance to execute the moves. I’m often awkward, but I’m improving. Do you hear that? At 50!! I love Taekwondo, and it helps me maintain (and improve) my balance. Getting older doesn’t mean there’s nothing I can do to maintain my ability to move well.
There are some things the young just don’t understand
Like how hard it can be to get up from the ground sometimes. I find this VERY frustrating. I also have an old knee injury that can sometimes make squatting uncomfortable. The great irony, though, is how much better it all is since I started Taekwondo and became intentional about correcting those things. I’m still not young. It’s still hard to get up from the floor sometimes. My knees still hurt. But I’m living my life. I’m doing all the things. And my body feels better than it did prior to beginning this Taekwondo journey. I call that a win. Maybe I’ll win that gold medal as well.