Too "OLD" to learn Martial Arts?

"Originally" the martial arts were not created for children. They were created as Life Protection Methods.

As such they were only to be used in a life or death situation. In the 1960's children were not even allowed to train in most martial arts schools. Now because of the fact that more than 85% of all students are children, everybody has the idea that they must begin their training as a small child. This is ridiculous to say the least. You may feel as though you are getting old.

The truth is at age 20 or so above, are just now at a maturity level to be able to deal with the things necessary to learn correctly. If you have let the mindset of the commercial schools that "give" black belts away to 5 year old's, then your feelings have been swayed. Swayed by facts that have nothing to do with learning correct martial arts skills from a legitimate instructor. Ignore anything along these lines and just train.

20 above is a good age to start training. Training should never be about where your abilities are compared to others. Ranks and abilities of others do not effect your abilities. They matter only if you allow them to. Your biggest obstacle to your training will always be your own mind. The only thing that matters is improving yourself, your mind, and physical skills. your worst opponent is You.

Just train. Be concerned about developing your skills. Be patient and don't worry about how long it takes to get to this level or that level. The serious study of the martial arts is a long journey. It is not a destination, it is the trip. If you obsess on anything other than just improving, you will always feel defeated.