There’s a secret to feeling energized, sleeping better, and staying sharp as we age. And it’s not what you might expect. If you think the answer is just walking or jogging, think again. According to a study from Harvard Medical School, the best activity for people over 60 to stay healthy and fit is surprisingly different—and it could change how you think about aging.
Why do some seniors glow with vitality while others slow down? It’s not just luck or genetics. It’s movement—smart movement that honors the body’s evolving needs. Let’s dive into what Harvard specialists recommend for anyone past 60 who wants not only to live longer but to live better.
Why martial arts are the ideal exercise for seniors
When most people hear “martial arts,” images of high kicks and fast punches from action movies jump to mind. But these traditional disciplines are far more gentle and adaptable than Hollywood suggests. According to experts, martial arts like Tai Chi, Aikido, and Wing Chun are perfectly suited for seniors because they focus on balance, body awareness and controlled, precise movements instead of speed or power.
These arts offer a full-body workout that engages both mind and body. Movements are often slow and deliberate, enhancing coordination and muscle tone without stressing joints—something many people over 60 worry about. Harvard’s research points to martial arts as a better option than typical activities like running or strength training, which can sometimes cause injury or be less appealing as we age.
I remember when a close family member in her early sixties started Tai Chi. At first, she was skeptical. But within a few months, she noticed she wasn’t stumbling as much, slept deeper, and felt calmer during stressful days. The blend of mental focus and physical movement helped her handle daily challenges with a new sense of confidence.
Examples of martial arts perfect for seniors
Tai Chi is like slow dancing with yourself. Its graceful, flowing motions combined with deep breathing improve circulation and reduce stress. For anyone worried about joint pain or falling, Tai Chi provides a safe, calming exercise that strengthens muscles and sharpens concentration.
Aikido is a philosophy in motion. Rather than meeting force with force, it teaches practitioners to redirect an opponent’s energy smoothly and safely. This approach keeps the body moving fluidly, preserving mobility and preventing strain. It’s a beautiful blend of self-defense and mindfulness, perfect for seniors who want to stay active without high-impact risks.
Wing Chun focuses on short, efficient movements without risky jumps or flips, making it ideal for elders wanting a bit more vigor. The discipline hones balance and reflexes, making everyday activities like walking on uneven pavement feel easier and safer.
For those looking for more dynamic options, gentle versions of Jiu Jitsu are adapted to avoid excessive physical contact. These emphasize learning defense techniques and improving body awareness gradually, helping seniors overcome fears around falling and movement.
How martial arts boost physical and mental health in older adults
What makes martial arts incredibly beneficial for seniors is their holistic nature. While most workouts focus on just the body or just the mind, these disciplines require your brain to memorize and perform complex sequences. This not only strengthens muscle coordination but also sharpens mental focus and memory.
Dr. Peter M. Wayne of Harvard Medical School studied Tai Chi’s effects on healthy aging. His research found that this practice enhances the body’s physiological complexity, meaning it reacts more flexibly and effectively to the challenges of growing older. It’s like keeping your body’s control system finely tuned rather than rusty and worn out.
Another major benefit is the social connection that comes from training in a group. For many seniors, loneliness and isolation become silent struggles. Martial arts classes become communities where people share progress, motivate each other, and feel part of something bigger. This social dimension is just as vital for well-being as the physical workout.
Of course, if you’re thinking about trying martial arts, it’s smart to check with your doctor first. And finding an instructor experienced in working with older adults can make all the difference in feeling safe and supported.
So, what do you think? Have you or someone you know ever tried Tai Chi or a gentle martial art? Would you consider it for yourself or a loved one? Share your stories or questions below—we’d love to hear how movement keeps you thriving at any age! If you found this helpful, don’t hesitate to share with someone who might benefit from discovering a new way to stay fit and joyful in their golden years.
I suffer from 24/7 vertigo and have to be very careful about moving without falls.
I am in a Tai Chi class for fall prevention. Eventhough I am very dizzy, moving slowly and deliberately I have learned to focus.
When things get too difficult, I sit down and do the Tai chi seated.
Just keep moving. Mind body, breathing.
I once had this issue and have found that Magnesium Glysinate, Vitamin D3 and K2 have helped significantly.
What is the daily dose of D3 and K2 you take?
D3 3000 int. Units/day
Get all my K2 from fermented foods. Natto, sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir and aged cheddar cheese.
Both my husband and I take (brand: micro ingredients) vitamin D3+K2, 2-in-1 formula, 5,000 IU D3 + 100 MCG K2, help us a lot.
I know that there are many causes of vertigo. But, as an M.S. patient, when mine comes back badly, I am often assigned a set of exercises by my doctor that helps move the solids around in my inner ear. It rarely helps on the first try, but it always works eventually. Maybe yours will know what I am talking about if you ask.
Vertigo is a miserable thing to live with. You have my sympathy.
Epley maneuver
My husband has vertigo, and these movements do work! You may need to do it 3-4 times with rest in between each set.
https://youtu.be/mQR6b7CAiqk?si=LAsXHtplm2OTF7d0
I’ve used this video instruction for abt 3 years and it works for me! Great advice.
You may want to see a vestibular therapist. They can help you with vertigo.
I took Tai Chi in the Courtyard at U of T, when I was 26, 27, & 28.
I gave up Tai Chi, when I sold my Condo downtown Toronto and bought a house in Bridgeport Kitchener.
I moved to a bungalow im Waterloo, with 3 children, 3 and under with my husband who had a gym, with a 5th degree black belt in Judo.
My youngest, does kickboxing, teaches kickboxing and her partner is a Coach and owner of TKO.
I’ve had inflammation of the left shoulder for 4 years & the 2 last years in Physio, with no improvement.
I wake up stiff in the neck sometimes and low back pain sometimes.
I have been constipated since January. The polyethylene glycol is a strong Purge.
I turned 67 in April..
I do squats, stretches, lunges, leg lifts and bridges.
I don’t feel flexible.
I need a big change in my life.
Sincerely Wendy
Hi Wendy,
There are many forms of Tai Chi. There are so many I can’t remember the names. The important part is the deep breathing with it. The soft movements and breathing.
Sometimes you have to be selfish and put yourself first and make time for yourself doing these things will make anything you do more pleasant . Michael
Too much information Wendy. You need a psychologist or social worker.
Wendy was concise, supplied pertinent info about her history resources, and asked for help.
Your answer was cruel.
Who is it that might need the psychologist?
I am sorry for whatever made you answer a genuine question and request for aid in such a manner.
Agreed
Thank you David, for saying what many of us only thought👍
Very much agree. It seems we have a bragged. She shoukd stay focused and talk about your physical challenges not all this other irrelevant stuff.
Pickleball for low to moderate intensity cardio, increasing mobility, fun, social and a sense of community.
Yoga. Yoga changed my life. The deep stretches should be held more than 3 minutes for the full effect those YouTube videos move too fast!
Constipated? Eat more plants. Organic if possible. Blueberries kale sprouts, Give up bread and cheese and dairy to reduce inflammation.
Only eat Meat sparingly.
No chips, no processed foods.
Yoga
Dear Wendy
Please check with a physical medicine practitioner. They are different from physiotherapist. They will prescribe exercises that will prepare you for doing physiotherapy. Otherwise doing physiotherapy may be injurious for the body. It’s like when we are very sick we take medicine, diet, and rest. Sometimes we get hospitalised. Trying anything outside the treatment regime would be harmful. The physical medicine practitioner may prescribe MRI, and then some medicines and low intensity exercises to prepare for the next step.
I have off-and-on vertigo. When I googled, I learned about BPPV and several procedures that help alleviate it. It’s due to the otoliths in the inner ear loosening and affecting balance. This can be from several causes including aging. I chose the first procedure listed (I forget the name) and that has kept the vertigo pretty much at bay.
I strongly recommend skipping the standing forward bend in yoga for older practitioners. I’m sure that’s what caused my BPPV especially when you add rotating and nodding the head while in the pose. I thought I was having a stroke.
Hope this helps.
Some balance issues are caused by back problems such as spinal stenosis .As a person who suffers from the condition, forward bending is what helps alleviate the symptoms. It is important to try to find out where the imbalance is coming from.
Thank you for saying that as I took have balance issues due to my back surgeries!
You didn’t tell us what the Tai chi or Aikido is. I don’t know what they are. You didn’t describe how it is done
There are free online video lessons on Tai Chi.
I have menieres disease and I haven’t had a bad episode in many years now. I would like to do some easy form of exercise. I can’t drive anymore because of macular degeneration. I wonder if there is a Tai chi course online?
Have you tried doing an extremely slow over the shoulder some salt to the left and some salt to the right. You don’t even have to complete the somersault just mimicking that position. Move the crystals and helps them drain from your ears. This is an absolutely amazing fix too Vertigo. That and also Falon Gong exercises.
Tsi Chi has been shown to be beneficial to prevent falling. However Akido and Wing Chun have serious possibilities of injury
Thank you for sharing all the great and beneficial information!
Mich Love!
You forgot Ai Chi, a Japanese form of meditation and exercise done in an aquatic environment.
Very exciting possibilities!
The idea of learning skills associated with martial arts as well as strengthening balance and agility make this an exciting possibility
A very welcome alternative!
The possibility of better balance and increased agility make martial arts very inviting!
I am 78 and have been practicing Qi Gong for 10 years in addition to Chair Yoga, light weight exercises, Nia, walking and swimming. Finding a good teacher for any group movement is noteworthy! Please consider Qi Gong as it is much easier on the knees.
Hi Jackie, I’m 78 too, and so funny, because I do the same routine as You: Qigong, walking, swimming, plus bike riding, breathing exercises, meditation and cold plunge… no chair yoga, but I will try..it
And I’m sure You feel great.. that’s how I feel.
Cheers
I am also 78 with balance issues because of neuropathy ( effects from chemotherapy) and Qi Gong has given me the most benefits. Have you seen YOQI on YOUTUBE? Try out one of the videos.
I too practice Qi Gong! I have found it a beautiful blend of movement , breath, and meditation. Coming up ona year practicing via Youtube and have found groups that practice not so near to me in the bronx. Helped enormously with my sciatica.
Yes. I like Qi Gong. Better for old joints. If you don’t know these, look on YouTube. They have teachers. Also I think going with others is better- at least for me.
This soinds like a great idea. I am 75 with good body tone, but with some joint pain. How do I choose the person to coach me?
What questions do I ask? I live in the Austin TX area. Is there a web site where I can shop for this service?
Hi, I’m 76 (turning 77 later this year) and while I have been working out most of my life, for the last 25 years I have been walking, jogging, running, hiking and, have even done a 10k race a couple years ago! I walk/run/jog a minimum of 5 miles a day, 7 days a week! Movement is key!
“A body in motion stays in motion” is a simplified way of stating Newton’s First Law of Motion, also known as the law of inertia. This law states that an object at rest will stay at rest, and an object in motion will stay in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force. In simpler terms, objects resist changes to their state of motion.
Barbara — you are an awesome example — IF u were closer, I would try to keep up with u but after 30 seconds I would need a couch !
Jesus good resources in urban communities are local colleges and universities. Look up classes being offered each semester and you may likely find what you’re seeking.
Movement is medicine!
Tai Chi is great for anyone especially great for people over 70. I am a certified Tai Chi and martial arts master in multiple disciplines. To keep your joints healthy and oxygen flowing through your blood and up to your brain (for brain health), I highly recommend Tai Chi. You should be able to locate one in Austin. Check out Tai Chi for seniors. There is Tai Chi for movements or the Tai Chi martial arts (sometimes named as Tai Chi Chuan). The one for Seniors are not as rough as the martial arts Tai Chi. One is more focused on health, the other is more focused on self defense and martial arts. Maybe you can try out both and see what one works for you. I suggest checking out the local YMCA also if you live near one.
Slow & Steady wins the race against aging. Start moving.
I am surprised yoga is not mentioned – it has many of the same benefits. Both yoga and martial arts have many variants, depending on the style and the instructors. It is important to match any class with your abilities.
I’m 72 and practice yoga and teach Haidong Gumdo – a martial art featuring using a sword. The study reflects my thoughts on the gains I experience from these activities.
Note Haidong Gumdo – the way I teach it – has little risk of injury (non contact) and makes allowances for individual abilities like age and old injuries.
I agree that Yoga is also beneficial, particularly with regards to maintaing/improving balance and flexibility. I am 67 and have been practicing yoga on and off since I was 18. I have done many classes over the years but now I do my own routines because I know what movements/positions will best address my bodies needs on any given day.
Oh interesting. Will have to look into this. I’m almost 60 (well next year) and currently run (about 4 miles) a few days a week, walk my dogs and walk hills with friends and my weighted vest and do Orange Theory workouts 1-2x a week. I’m trying!
Please don’t wear out your joints. Knees, hips, ankles and feet. I just had my first of 2 full knee replacements and I can tell you, it’s not fun. Very painful. I worked on my feet and exercised till I wore my knees out till I was nearly crippled. I would seriously consider changing your routine to no or very low impact to save your joints.
Thanks for sharing such a valuable information.
I was just thinking of martial arts. Because of this article I now know the types to look into. I’m interested in the mind and body but also sale defence. Seniors are often targets. It’s important to be aware of surroundings and know methods of self defense. Thanks so very much for this information!
I agree with thought. I’m 62 and in need of Lea ning some martial arts techniques to keep me safe. It’s also, a good idea to have some mace with you when you’re put at night. Agreed…..always keep an eye out on your surroundings at all times, day or night.
You sound super. Everyone needs a friend like you
I am 80 yrs old and started doing Tai Chi in my late twenties. Eventually, I became a teacher. Tai Chi changed my life. It is not only a martial arts, it is a philosophy and different way of being in this world. It teaches you the path of least resistance and that not all situations require the same response, or any response.
The physical movements look soft and flowing, but believe me they are intense and precise and are quite a work out. And the fact that there is so much memorization, it is great for the brain. It will give you greater balance in mind, body, and soul.
Do you recommend it if a person does not currently have good memory?
I am 73 and a competitive fencer. While fencing is not a martial art, ( Some would disagree.) it is a combat sport and one that more than covers all the bases of this article.
Thank you for this information.
I will be looking into this. I am 75, still working at a sit down job. And take care of two acres. My mom is 95 getting slower but takes care of herself. This could help both of us.
We live in Oregon. Again thank you
Recovering from chemotherapy and Chemo neuropathy is my problem because it is taking my balance away from me and independence. I think tai chi would be a very good exercise for me. I need more information. about how I could do this at home.
I’m 68…started Aikido but found it difficult to get back up on the floor.
I now do Yoga and Tai Chi and actually on my way to become an instructor of Tai Chi
I also walk with someone for a healthy social experience
Keep moving everyone
Very good information. Thanks 😊
Thanks for the great suggestions! If someone cannot find a class in martial arts in the neighborhood, let’s never underestimate the value of a great walk through a city or a forest. No excuses. No teachers needed! Work the mind and the body, and don’t forget to breathe!
Why the “this not that” or “only this” approach?
Complex, mindful, ability-preserving movement exercise like Tai Chi, yoga, balance drills, etc. are indeed useful.
But so are strength training and cardiovascular exercise.
Everyone’s life improves with all of it.
Any physical capacity that we do not stress (train) will decay rapidly after middle age.
We should all be doing all of it.
I am 88 this November and I do my own housework. Cooking, cleaning kitchen, marketing, dusting,sweeping, vacuuming, washing, folding, ironing, making the bed…every morning, scrubbing bathrooms. And I always remember to take deep breaths.
That’s outstanding. Unbelievable! I’ve never knew anyone that age that could do all of those things. Simply remarkable.
God bless you always!
I’m struggling at 66.
I am always just left a little at sea by all these wonderful things some researcher says seniors are supposed to do, then they just leave it there…No direction on how one accesses these life saving acts – not really helpful.
Please remember, individuals in the 60s now are not retiring and sitting at home. I am 66, and working 50-60 hours a week, very fit. As things are now the late 70s will be the new time frame to ” retire”.
I live in palm coast florida I’m 82 and want to try marital art what do you recommend
Letricia
In Palm Coast, there are several options for seniors interested in Tai Chi. The Dragon Institute offers Wing Chun classes, which they describe as a practical self-defense application of Tai Chi principles. Additionally, the City of Palm Coast offers a modified Tai Chi class specifically for seniors, led by a certified instructor. Other options include classes at the Southern Recreation Center, and potentially at Hammock Beach Resort.
I have recently discovered and love Qichong
I’ll stay w/ biking. It allows me to quickly access peopleless wilderness and get places I have to go to, anyway.
Me too. I’ll be 73 in a day or two and biking has been my salvation. I’ve never been into exercise but this last year biking has completely transformed me. After riding an indoor exercise bike for months I bought an electric tricycle and have been riding at least ten miles a day. This has not only helped me lose weight but also gives me time to think, plan, reflect and refresh.
You are truly blessed.
I did Tai Chi in my 40s when I came across a class by an elderly gentleman who said he trained with Buddhist monks. He taught slow & fast styles. I tried the fast style as I was quite fit then.
In a demonstration of utilising pressure points, he asked me to simulate throwing a punch at him. Instead of throwing it real slow, I went at medium pace and he sent me flying through the air with 2 fingers. I landed ok & I was very impressed because he was well into his 70s! I’m sure the rest of the class were also impressed! However, he got a bit upset with me. 😉
I did Tai Chi in my 40s when I came across a class by an elderly gentleman who said he trained with Buddhist monks. He taught slow & fast styles. I tried the fast style as I was quite fit then.
In a demonstration of utilising pressure points, he asked me to simulate throwing a punch at him. Instead of throwing it real slow, I went at medium pace and he sent me flying through the air with 2 fingers. I landed ok & I was very impressed because he was well into his 70s! I’m sure the rest of the class were also impressed! However, he got a bit upset with me. 😉
I find that Taichi works wonders for me. 15 years ago I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis. I was sent to a rehab doctor and underwent some therapy. It relieved me for a while but the deterioration couldn’t be reversed. I joined a Taichi class and now conducting Taichi lessons. I practice almost everyday. I am 78 years old and still active in a metal fabrication business. I travel alone in airplanes or boats unassisted. I look forward to my 80s and still doing my routine.
dance! the exercise that plays like fun
Yes. Dnace!! I was waiting for this. I started doing low-impact Zumba and noticed right away that I was stumbling and tripping less and my hand-eye coordination improved too. I have also taken tai chi and I do like it, but for me (Type A person who likes a fast pace) dance is more enjoyable. For anyone who doesn’t have such classes nearby or can’t afford them, YouTube has many instructional videos for line dancing, Zumba, tai chi and many other types of workouts. My husband and I do Zumba together. 🤎💜🩵💚🧡💙❤️💛 Best wishes to all.
Nice direcatation guidance keep it up great job very nice and superb
For qi gong instruction look up Master Man Lu on the internet.
I’m 83 and have been doing tai chi on and off, as my work allowed, for almost 30 years. I find it excellent for improving balance and strength, and I enjoy doing it as part of a group.
I’ve had vertigo on and off a long with ringing in my ears since 2009 from a car accident in 2008. I was told it was all due to the whiplash I encountered from the car accident. I’m 64 now still have ringing in my ears and was told the on anff vertigo is called Cervical Vertigo. Look it up, it’s a real thing.
My balance today is off plus I’ve had added issues from a fall I had 13 years ago while working. Now 3 surgeries later, especially my neck which is fused from C2-C6. I also have a Service dog to help me walking up and down stairs or just walking in general.
I have done Tai Chi years ago but I am willing to start back up and the other ones that were listed too. Anything to help my balance. But if anyone has any remedies for the ringing in the ears I’m all “ears”…lol.
Our senior center only has once a week Tia Chi! Needs to be 3x a week. That was why I quit. But yeah, qi gong would be good too not the other 2 martial arts.
Have to keep moving, even to cut the yard ,wash your care . also I am very ill . 💕 Living is hard and Dying is Easy .
Iyengar Yoga offers everything that martial arts entails and so much more. It is an ideal practice for seniors.
It seems like whatever works best for the individual is the best course of action. I’m 68. Four times a week I do BodyPump, a circuit weightlifting class using lighter weights and higher reps, one to two days weekly Pilates, then Zumba. I live near a beautiful park that’s almost 3 miles around, and race walk that regularly as well as weather permits. My blood work and vitals are perfect, and I take no medications. I have an extremely disciplined Mediterranean diet, no junk food, alcohol or drugs, good sleep, and socialization. There are no guarantees, but the stronger I am if something does happen down the road, the better my chances of survival are.
Rebounding for the win! Great cardio Easy on the joints, lymphatic drainage, strengthen pelvic floor , helps with balance and is super fun!. Avail on Amazon for around 100$ ( some of handlebars until you get used to it) easy set up. IT IS the best!
I figured the activity they recommended was going to be burning Israeli flags to burn calories.
If you’re looking for a truly outstanding coach who understands both movement and healing, I highly recommend Umesh Balavaradaraju, available on MyYogaTeacher.com. Umesh is a former professional dancer, martial artist, and exceptionally skilled yoga instructor who blends all these disciplines into a deeply mindful and therapeutic practice.
The movements he teaches are similar to Tai Chi and Qigong—slow, intentional, and focused on breath and inner awareness—which makes them especially helpful for people dealing with chronic pain, joint stiffness, injury recovery, or age-related mobility challenges. His deep understanding of body mechanics and movement patterns allows him to guide students toward better alignment and long-term healing.
I currently have a membership on MyYogaTeacher that includes two one-hour private 1-on-1 sessions per week, plus unlimited group classes. I divide my time into four 30-minute sessions weekly with Umesh, and he has helped me tremendously with whole-body joint issues from over 20 years of caregiving for my son, who has a neuromuscular condition.
If you’re looking for a gentle yet powerful way to improve your mobility, posture, and well-being—Umesh is a rare gem worth discovering.
you can ask for 3 free 1-on-1 private sessions with Umesh when you sign up—just to try it out. There’s no obligation to continue if you’re not completely satisfied. And just so you know, I don’t get any referral credit—I’m sharing this simply because it’s made such a difference in my life, and I hope it can help someone else too.
The intro by himself: “The Direction of Yoga, There was an immense surge of energy and a sense of lightness in being me. I was dripping like it was hot summer. I was so aware of my body, my mind, and my breath. I wanted more of it. There was this beautiful rush I felt throughout and when it was time for ‘Shavasana’. I could not stop myself being one with the stars and the galaxies as I closed my eyes. It was magical! I was smiling! I was happy! I had finished my first Yoga class! Almost two decades later…with the same smile, I’m here with you sharing how it all began.
My background in movement arts started in 1997 when my parents enrolled me to study martial arts because I beat up my school mate when he teased me. As lame as it may sound, I was pretty hurt and suppressed as I held onto my emotions. I was all bottled up and quite. The training began with stances, alignment, breathing, and striking with the foot and hand. My reflexes were required to develop into responses rather than unsystematic reactions. I was jumping, rolling, learning to break a fall. It all became second nature to me. Over the next few years, I improved multifold not only physically but mentally and emotionally. I was taught about – ‘Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self Control, and Indomitable Spirit’. These were lessons for life.
What had changed in me was that I turned out more disciplined with awareness. The boy who I beat up was friends with me again because I went up to him and apologized. I had learned to forgive and be empathetic. And, that felt good to me. It was on the same campus where dance was taught. The sound of Indian percussion music aroused a passion for dance. Now I was both shadowboxing and ‘shadow dancing’ with postures I did not even have a name for. They looked aesthetic and pleasing to me. I knew I had an eye for detail and articulation.
From 2001 to 2014 I have been a contemporary dancer, performing across the globe. Through this, I learned more about ‘rasas’ and stage presence. I gained further insight into human anatomy, musculature, injury prevention, and nutrition. Martial arts and dance are such a beautiful combination together. They are like two sides of a coin to me. One you defend yourself with and with the other you express and communicate. Oh yes! I specialized in sculpture making in my Arts College. It was all a beautiful alignment to understand the human body. It was at this juncture that I started learning Yoga to prevent injuries and to focus inwards.
The spiritual search for clarity began with Yoga and there has been no end to the possibilities it opened up within and outside. I’m grateful to all the teachers and schools who have given me this knowledge and to the students who I learn from as I teach. I will always remember the very first Yoga class which has taken me till here with a smile. The chanting of the ‘mantras’ at the beginning of a class invoked a sense of being in the present and thanking the almighty creator, the universe, and its elements. India has had such a rich heritage, deep culture, and its own mystique to it. Who knew that this would be Yoga? Why these postures? How are these postures, mudras, yogic breathing, and uses backed by medical and scientific research and analysis in the present day?
It amazes and intrigues me as more advanced scientific and medical data proves and shows that Yoga is a must for everybody. For example, the risks arising from cardiovascular diseases are reduced with the practice of certain ‘asanas’ and ‘pranayama’. Apart from making me physically flexible, strong, and supple, Yoga has helped me heal mentally and emotionally. My emotions are sometimes on a surge because I am human. Even if it does surge for a few seconds, it automatically brings me back into a sense of calmness and blissful focus. I look inwards and question myself. I try to be in the present and practice mindfulness with every step, bite, and breath. I have learned to amalgamate the nuances and technique of martial art and dance into Yoga and I have noticed in my own practice and the inner feelings of my students who express so well saying they feel heroic and they feel unknown beautiful serenity. They feel relaxed and accomplished at the end of the class. That is so true because I feel the same! My life has been full of art and movement. The compass is always pointing towards his ancient art of Yoga was made for all of us to practice with an open heart regardless of age. We will have a clear direction then. And, that is Yoga, the most beautiful path! I hope you like my journey so far here. Looking forward to seeing you often! Stay Blessed, Namaste!”
Cj, You Tell Em!!! Just Rude people out here, Everywhere! Beverly, I was wondering if anyone was going to mention Ai Chi! This is for anyone with Vertigo I hear! I fall a lot-just because! They say that this is the Best Exercise for us older folks, I’d Love to try!!! Good Luck people!
I read all the comments and not one addressed my particular situation. I’m 66. I was injured severely when I was 21. I recovered and worked and lead a normal life until I reached 55. At that time I had developed what’s called “trauma induced arthritis “. So since then I’ve had both knees replaced and I have almost constant pain in my right hip. Even though my knees were replaced with metal, I still experience pain and weakness all the time. Definitely affects my sleep. I’d love to do one or more of these martial arts but Im in pretty much constant pain already. It’s extremely hard to motivate myself to do anything physical.
Dear Jill,
One thing that helps a lot is a shift in mental attitude. Some seniors age faster in their minds and hearts before bodily aging sets in. Thinking that you have actually aged just because you are 60 or above all the time sends constant and unwholesome message to the body to act as such. Change that Thinking around, telling yourself steadily that the number 60 or above is just a number and that you are stronger and a lot fitter. Believe this and after a month or two, you will be amazed at yourself.
Its working for me.
I am so glad to see these comments and the above article, all of the data and results are true according to my experience over the last 22 years. I studied and taught KungFu for 15 years ages from 3 to 84 years old. I started my training when I was 55 years old and at that time I was seeing my chiropractor once a week. After the first year of training I went to the chiropractor once every 3 months for maintenance. My chiropractor even joined the KungFu class because he saw the results I got from it — a balanced body, calm mind and Spirt. Even though I retired from teaching at the school I continue to do my stretch exercises each morning and teach some private lessons. The Soft style martial arts are the best I believe for all ages but especially so for seniors. Thank you for this article and I hope more Seniors do soft style martial arts. Sincerely Master Bueno
I prefer the martial art TaiEatFood
I’ve had two falls which has caused me to have a surgical procedure done each time.
I’d like to join one of the above mentioned groups, but how do I go about finding an instructor, or a group? Is there a particular program available that I could contact for assistance?
Tai Chi Chuan provides many benefits, as commented. It is for any age except maybe it is too strenuous for maturing young teens; otherwise, Tai Chi should be practiced as soon as possible. Body awareness, ability to calm, on demand, maintain fascia stretching, and balance are good for any age. Lifting arms, legs and standing movement for an hour is a very good workout. Find a school. Yang long form takes about 6 months to learn the sequence of movements, but a lifetime of enjoyable refinement. And all the movements have a defensive and offensive purpose.