I am starting Kung Fu classes this fall and I am 35 y.o.

Question

Any tips as far as how to prepare for this martial art? I am married, 35 y.o, father of 3, work about 50 hours a week and rarely get any exercise or work out. I am fully committed as it's always been an interest I've longed to take and I finally have a way of going forward. It'll be 2 nights a week an hour each night. I'm excited and with any exercise, I am up for the challenge. It'll be 6 months of classes and if I like i can always sign up later on for another 6 month session. Any tips on how to get ready for this both mentally and physically? Dieting, of watching what I am eating, or what can boost my metabolism. Thanks.

Answer 1

It is a beautiful thing.

Just do it. You don't need any tips or advice, specially from people on yahoo answers. Most of them are beginners.

Go with the flow.

Eat slowly. Enjoy your food. You'll eat less and have more energy.

What school and art?

Answer 2

Kung Fu, first off, literally means in Cantonese, "highest level of achievement". There is no martial art called Kung Fu, lol. But I get what you're saying. If you want to improve a lot. Just take some time running every morning. Start out slow, and if you do this eventually everyday, you'll be able to run miles! Its ok to eat junk food, but not all the time. Eat healthy, like fruit, good danwiches, meat, milk, wheat and all them good stuff.

as for mentally. Just discard every worry you have, every doubt, everything you know about martial arts but never lose common sense since most martial arts schools get too traditional that the only thing you'll have left when a mugger approaches is you confidence and you're wallet that will say farewell. You'll learn a lot quicker the more humble you get and never hesitate to ask the instructor and question WHY his techniques are the way they are and see if it makes sense

Answer 3

First of all I think it's great that you have always wanted to try this and now you are finally doing it! I can relate to that.

My suggestion is don't worry about it too much right now. Start eating good now and if you have time, start a light workout, such as jogging and exercises such as push ups, sit-ups, lunges, and squats (you'll probably do a lot of these exercises in class).  But, since the classes are only two nights a week you'll have plenty of recovery time between classes. That will help you gradually get into better shape while you learn what is required in your martial art. Once you are used to the 2 days a week you can work out on your own on additional days, incorporating exercises that will help you with your chosen martial art.

Have fun!

Answer 4

Stretch and be willing to work on your cardio.  The physical parts you will need should be taught to you there.  of course any strength training you can do on your own would only help even if you werent in a martial arts class.  stretch on your own at home or wherever and as much as possible try to up your endurance.  even just adding jogging or running would help.. the last thing you want to happen is to be so tired and so sore that it'll hinder your learning.  You are going to get tired and sore but I have seen people who go for one week and cant beat the soreness or tiredness and get real discouraged.     The mental part is just keeping your mind open and willing to learn.  ask questions to learn the "why" of what you're doing.  Moving and exercising will boost your metabolism.  Everyone knows WHAT they SHOULD and SHOULDNT eat...its just a matter of doing it.  If you want to burn fat though - increase your clean protein intake and lower your carbs (not atkins or anything crazy,  just make simple changes)  

Answer 5

Hmm...35 years old? Do you still have the flexibility of someone in his late 20s? Because Kung Fu involves a lot of complex moves that will stretch your muscles to the limit. Maybe you should try TKD first, to see how it goes for you.