For over 30 years, Kung Fu has been my passion, my career, and my way of life. At 48, as a Sifu (teacher) and student of the martial arts, I’ve learned one essential truth: if you teach Kung Fu, you must train Kung Fu. That commitment never fades, but as life evolves—whether with age, injuries, or responsibilities—the way we approach training must also adapt.

In the West, we don’t have the luxury of dedicating 8 hours a day solely to training like the Shaolin monks. We’ve got jobs, businesses, families, and other personal commitments. In my case, I run a small design and animation business, teach students at BeZen Kung Fu and Tai Chi, and try to balance all of that with time for family and personal growth.

One thing I’ve embraced is weaving Kung Fu into my everyday life. Whether it’s in the form of stretching in the mornings, practicing stances while waiting for the kettle to boil, or taking mindful moments throughout the day to breathe and focus, it’s all part of my training. That consistency allows me to stay connected to my martial roots without feeling overwhelmed by the idea of needing hours to dedicate each day.

Training at 48 is different than it was at 28. There are new costs to the body that come with age. But with that also comes wisdom—knowing when to push, when to rest, and how to modify training to fit your body’s current needs.

One of my most challenging periods was recovering from a severe hand fracture. It took almost a year before I could even hold a fist properly. But during that time, I didn’t stop training. I adapted. I focused on forms that didn’t require handwork and dedicated time to improving my flexibility, strength, and mental discipline. Injuries will always be part of a martial artist’s journey; how we approach them defines our growth.

Finding the Balance

Kung Fu isn’t just about physical strength; it’s about mental discipline, emotional resilience, and spiritual growth. It’s a constant practice of finding balance—not only in forms but in life. Whether it’s balancing the demands of a business or the responsibilities of family life, Kung Fu teaches me how to navigate these challenges with grace and determination.

For anyone out there who feels they are “too old” to start, or for those struggling to maintain their training amidst life’s demands, know that Kung Fu is adaptable. It meets you where you are and grows with you. It becomes part of who you are and how you live your life.