Kung fu is a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. For those of us training and teaching martial arts well into middle age, the lessons take on a deeper meaning. One of the most profound teachings is the concept of "the empty cup." It’s a simple but powerful metaphor: to learn and grow, we must empty our minds of preconceived notions and approach each lesson with humility.

As a middle-aged martial artist, I’ve found this principle to be a guide in both my training and teaching. Over time, life fills our cups with experiences, habits, and assumptions. Yet, martial arts remind us that true mastery comes from staying open—a willingness to relearn, adapt, and embrace challenges with the same eagerness as a beginner.

This mindset is essential when the body no longer recovers as quickly as it once did, and when life’s responsibilities demand more time and energy. Training in this stage of life is less about physical prowess and more about inner strength, discipline, and balance. It’s about rediscovering the joy in small victories, like perfecting a movement or finding moments of stillness amid chaos.

Remaining an empty cup allows us to connect deeply with our students, recognising that teaching is also a form of learning. Every time I guide a student, I see martial arts from a fresh perspective, reminding me of why I began this journey in the first place.