When I first walked into a dojo at the age of 65, I was very aware that I was starting something completely new at a time in life when many people are slowing down. I had spent decades involved in sport—everything from squash to endurance events such as marathons and Iron Man races—so physical challenge was not unfamiliar to me. Even so, beginning karate as an older beginner was both confronting and deeply rewarding. The initial challenge was not fitness, but adaptation. Karate requires a different kind of physical ability: balance, coordination, flexibility, and precise control. Movements that look simple take time to understand and even longer to perform correctly. At my age, learning new techniques does not happen automatically, and repetition is essential. I found that I needed time outside the dojo to practice moves and make sure that I embed them into my neural pathways. Recovery takes longer too; I am far more conscious now of stiffness, sore joints, and the need to train intelligently rather than push blindly. There is also a mental challenge in being a beginner again. Training alongside people much younger than me required setting aside ego and accepting my limitations. Progress is slower, and comparisons are unhelpful. Karate has taught me patience in a very direct way. Each small improvement—better balance, cleaner technique, remembering a kata—feels genuinely earned. My background in sport has helped me greatly. Years of training taught me discipline, consistency, and respect for structured practice. Endurance events in particular taught me patience and perseverance, qualities that translate perfectly to karate. I understand that improvement comes from turning up, doing the work, and trusting the process. That mindset has allowed me to enjoy karate without frustration, even when progress feels slow. The benefits of karate, however, have been remarkable. Physically, I feel more balanced, mobile, and coordinated. The emphasis on posture, core strength, and controlled movement has had a positive impact on everyday life. Karate challenges the whole body in a way that feels purposeful rather than punishing. It encourages awareness of how I move, stand, and breathe.

Explaining something shows what you truly understand. Starting from zero becomes clearer when you teach even a little. Questions: 1. What could you explain better than last week? 2. Who could benefit from your current knowledge? Action: Explain one concept aloud or in writing.