So you said you wanted to start martial arts. You’ve been thinking about it for a long time. You’ve been Googling academies and watching videos on YouTube. You’re following our social media and now you are on the “submit your contact info” page of our website. What’s stopping you now?!
- I’m too old.
Someone left a voicemail at the gym one day and said, I’m interested but I’m old. I am 37. That is not too old, not even close. We have people starting in their 40’s and train well into their 60’s. Age is just a number and you are only as old as you tell yourself you are. Now, there are some restrictions with being older and the recovery time is often longer and the 20 year olds seem to have more stamina but hey, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t believe me? Check out this 70 year bad ass!
- I’m too out of shape.
There is no way to get in shape if you don’t do something about it. You can stay on your couch or you can get up and take the steps needed to get in shape. It doesn’t happen overnight. It will take hard work and dedication but it is 100% possible. Waiting until you are in shape to start is like “waiting to start school until you are smart enough”. You see the dilemma here.
- I’m too busy.
When you find something you love, something you are passionate about, something you enjoy, you will find time for it. You make the time. You will move things around, maybe give up others. Time is the most important gift you can give someone or something because it’s the one thing you can’t get back. Use it wisely.
- I’m too scared.
Starting something new is always scary. Every single person in here was once just as scared. We foster a family friendly and welcoming environment. People are supportive. People become friends and we are one big family. Bring a friend or family member with your first time if it makes you feel more comfortable. I love seeing our students become friends and hanging outside of the academy.
- I’m too weak.
The beauty of martial arts is that technique is seen as strength. You will be stronger than an untrained opponent. You will have more knowledge than 80% of the population. This gives you strength. This gives you power.
- I’m too overweight.
A couple months ago, I called someone who submitted their information on our website. He told me he was tired of being overweight and ready to make a change in his life. He asked me if we would allow someone that looked like him in our academy and my heart sank. Of course we do! I invited him in to try a class, spoke to the instructor and we knew who he would partner him up with for his first class. He showed up, he took class, and he enrolled. I know it was probably one of the hardest things he’s ever done but he made the choice to change his life. Now I see him in the gym and my heart is so full. I am so proud of him and his progress. His journey to a healthier and happier life started because he stopped making excuses and is putting in the work. He trains 5 days a week, multiple times a day, both in BJJ and Kickboxing. He also lifts weights a few times a week elsewhere. He’s watching his diet and holding himself accountable. What an inspiration. Losing weight and getting healthier, all at a little mixed martial arts academy in Aurora.
- It’s too expensive.
Your health and happiness is an investment. It requires your time and also a monetary commitment. You will find the value in it, if it is what you want. You will find a way to make your monthly tuition. Skip the burrito at Chipotle and the coffee at Starbucks. It adds up and can be put towards your membership dues. Most academies are always looking for help around the academy. Speak with your professors and see if there is any volunteering you can do to trade.
Martial arts can be life changing. Not only physically but also mentally. It keeps your mind sharp. It can also help make everyday life a little bit easier to maintain. A mom shared her personal experiences with me.
“The boys (twins) have autism. People with autism tend to have trouble listening, following directions, making friends, engaging in social interactions, the list is endless. Since they have started taking BJJ (at High Altitude Martial Arts), I have seen tremendous improvement in all areas of their lives. They socially interact with so much more ease and comfort, they’ve made friends, they follow directions (although it’s still sometimes an issue, the change however has been amazing). Although they don’t always listen or follow directions, them just sitting there amongst other children and listening HUGE. Their ability to interact has changed greatly since they started, they talk with the coaches and the other children, before this would not have been the case, they would’ve stayed to themselves and played either alone or just with each other. It’s been a tremendous help in so many ways for them and in ways that will impact their entire future. It’s amazing. My daughter also suffers from extreme social anxiety. Her going anywhere where there are people she doesn’t know makes her very uncomfortable and extremely anxious. She tends to talk very loudly when she becomes really anxious. This was a huge issue when we first started kickboxing, she was so uncomfortable and anxious she couldn’t handle herself. She still does this, but I’ve noticed that it’s becoming less and less each time she goes to kickboxing. It might sound small, but it is a huge leap for her. I believe as she becomes more comfortable, it’s also making her more confident and I’m hoping will in turn make her less anxious. Either way, even though it’s small right now, I can notice a small change.”
Honestly, there is never the perfect time. You can always find a reason why you should wait. The only time you have is now. If you want something bad enough, you will do it. If you don’t, you will make excuses.
My long list of excuses kept me from experiencing the wonderful world of BJJ for 10 years! Don’t be like me and let your fears hold you back. I have no room to judge, I just took my first kickboxing class the other night. If I can do it, anyone can!
