Ask Sifu Z: How old is too old?

Dear Sifu Z,

I'm 40 years old. Is it time to quit Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Sifu Z sez:

Dear bjj 40 yrs old -

Should I quit?

The question is "is it a hobby or a way of life?" You see I'm 49. Been doing martial arts for 24 years and plan on practicing until death. I needn't win all the time. In fact I, of late, take great pleasure in getting my ass kicked by one of my female students. She has gotten pretty good, I still dictate the way the fight goes but she is so much more aggressive than I am and so much faster that it's a chore to keep up. Now I'm not that familiar with the details of BJJ but the Gracies practice well into old age.

The question you should ask yourself is "am I gettin' pleasure outta this and is it having a positive effect on my life?" Both need to be yesses. If not, why dontcha try tennis?

Sifu Z