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Am I Too Old for BJJ? (Here is the Answer) | Chris Matakas
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5 жыл бұрынGrab My Free BJJ Mindset Shift Course Here:
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Grab My Free BJJ Mindset Shift Course Here:
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Many people enter Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and believe they might have started too late. They ask themselves: “Am I too old for BJJ”, “Is 30 too old for BJJ?”, “Is 40 too late to get into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu”, “Am I crazy to try to start BJJ at 60?!”
In this video I share my answer to that all-too-common question that prospective BJJ students have while evaluating the gentle art.
If this video brought any value to you it would mean the world if you hit that like button, left a comment to share your thoughts on the subject, and subscribed to our channel.
I am grateful for you, friends!
-Chris
(P.S., Feel free to find me on Instagram and say “Hi!”, @MatakasBJJ)
Links to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Books by Chris Matakas
On Jiu Jitsu: amzn.to/2HdQHcE
5 Rules for White Belts: amzn.to/2VhEE1I
Hero: amzn.to/2Yq3rTr
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Professor Chris Matakas is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Professor Ricardo Almeida and is owner of Matakas BJJ in Florence, NJ.
DISCLAIMER: This video and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on them, Chris Matakas may receive a small commission. This helps supports the Chris Matakas KZfaq channel and allows us to continue to make more videos. Thanks for your support!
@josullivanjr 3 жыл бұрын
Just started at 72. In good condition and no prior injuries. Saw bone doctor yesterday and he said go for it.
@badxradxandy Жыл бұрын
Two years later, how's it going?
@pauldorman1355 4 ай бұрын
Hes a coral belt
@SilverbackGeurrilla 5 жыл бұрын
I started at 49, I’m 51 now and getting ready to test for blue belt. I can’t imagine my life without BJJ now.
@alejandrochavez9166 3 жыл бұрын
Can you please share, why you like BJJ too much?
@SilverbackGeurrilla 3 жыл бұрын
Alejandro Chavez “too much”?
@SilverbackGeurrilla 3 жыл бұрын
@Benzie Smith Not my fucking problem! It’s KZfaq USA for me!
@GamerGrit86 3 жыл бұрын
41 just started
@scotth.1393 4 жыл бұрын
53 and have been training for 7 months and love it. I am stronger, more focused, less stressed and more ready to take on new challenges like never before in my life. To me, Jiu Jitsu is like a super power.
@Stevecollinsclear 2 жыл бұрын
64 yr old - started when i was 58. had one x hip replacement the year before I began jiujitsu. New blue belt. Loving the journey. So helped by the people at my gym
@crankinozzer 3 жыл бұрын
"It's not about how good you are at Jiu Jitsu but how good Jiu Jitsu is for you!" - Caio Terra. I live by that, started at 53 now I am 58 blue belt 4 stripes. Love it!
@Jesus_Advocate41 3 жыл бұрын
53 also, just took my 1st Gracie BJJ class this morning!
@FR-ty5vn Жыл бұрын
Nice 👍🏼 - restarted at 49, now I’m 55…
@TheOnlyOneStanding8079 Жыл бұрын
Can you defend yourself against street thugs?
@FR-ty5vn Жыл бұрын
@@TheOnlyOneStanding8079 the more you fight in the gym the more likely you’ll avoid fights on the streetz - but it prepares you for the worst (I wouldn’t go with a completely sport/points oriented school though).
@jonathantynes1150 Жыл бұрын
I'm 35.. I felt too old when I started.. but seeing all these wonderful comments and this video helped me see that I have plenty of time! Thanks again!
@ChrisMatakas Жыл бұрын
I'm glad this video found you at the right time, and I appreciate you taking the time to relay your thoughts!
@davidgee125 Жыл бұрын
Exactly the same as me I started my journey at 37 I felt slightly out of place being the youngest in the class. But now I just focus on myself I only compare myself to the old me and no body else.
@VerySleepy14 5 жыл бұрын
I signed my son at 6 years old. He's enjoying it, and he's motivated me to try. I'll be 40 in a few months!
@bananapatch9118 3 жыл бұрын
59 and overweight....4 classes so far. Hard, but I love it ! The rolling wipes me out but hopefully will help me work off my belly.
@stuartclubb4302 Жыл бұрын
One year on, how did it go?
@bananapatch9118 Жыл бұрын
@@stuartclubb4302 I did great for a year, 3-4 times a week, now nursing a painful hip flexor and moving out of the country. But, already found a new BJJ school in Nicaragua…guy from California opened a school, so hoping to get back in class soon if I can fix this psoas issue. I LOVE doing BJJ…
@stuartclubb4302 Жыл бұрын
@@bananapatch9118 Good for you. Hips sure are a challenge. Glad you "LOVE" it.
@Torey1976 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video. I wanted to start BJJ when I was 35, but thought I was too old and out of shape so I didn't start. However, I couldn't stop thinking about trying it so here we are 7 years later, I'm 42 and 8 months into BJJ and I love it. From training, I actually move better now than I did 10 years ago!
@anahita777 3 жыл бұрын
I'm exactly in your position, same age. Wanted to start today. You convinced me.
@Torey1976 3 жыл бұрын
@@anahita777 Do it! Trust me, you won't regret it. I got my blue belt back in December and got my first stripe on it two months ago. You'll be amazed at how much you can do and progress at our age and will be glad you started now than later.
@damonhorbrook8517 Жыл бұрын
I am 42 years old my first day of training was on Halloween of this year 2022 I am training in combative jiu jitsu trying not to get frustrated with it but I know that I can do this I have came across this channel when the Sensei was talking about jiu-jitsu and mental health I really enjoyed this channel I have read some of the comments and I would like to thank you all for your help and understanding I would not stop I would not give up one day at a time
@realNormanSmith 3 жыл бұрын
Starting at 51...two month’s in. Still learning my body English and building my body condition. It feels like yoga meets tai chi meets gymnastics. I love it! I’m getting crushed and getting stronger. It feels good to train safely and grow. Thanks for the information and analysis.
@suzanneorpen7762 3 жыл бұрын
Started at when I was 40, loved it from the first class, it has transformed my life, just trying to train smart so that I can keep going back to the mat and learn more, did my blue belt exam last year and it was so challenging but so rewarding... I can't imagine my life without jiu jitsu, is it easy no, is it worth it 100%
@tribulationsurvivalist7466 3 жыл бұрын
I am 65 as a 3 stripe purple belt and am still rolling but underground due to the covid bs .. I weight train 4x per week to keep strong and would like to at least get my brown belt .. Staying away from bad habits like smoking and drinking alcohol and staying active and weight training is the fountain of youth and opens the door for things like jiujitsu ..
@MrOhjok 3 жыл бұрын
@River's Dad You my man, are exactly the type of person I speak of above. We are a minority, but we are out there. Serving as an inspiration to others who hang on the fence in doubt and fear. I'm fortunate to have been athletic all my life. High school sports. Nidan in Shotokan, practice/ instructed for over twenty years. Muay Thai until I was 48. In between points I have nursed injuries, but I always return to my training and fitness. At 63, I just started jujitsu with one of the best, Sergio Pehna. One advantage of living in Las Vegas. I'm doing well. Thanks to a healthy bloodline. I could not have done what I have accomplished within various athletic expressions, if it were not for the genetics of a strong and healthy lineage. My continuation of expressing the physical is a way to honor those who have contributed to my achievements. To not do so, to sit back and get fat, I suppose age is an easy excuse to lay on the couch. To each their own. Laying on the couch is like laying in a coffin. I'm too young to die.🥋👊
@johnnyb2799 Жыл бұрын
I'm 60 and just days away from the 3rd stripe on my white belt. I love it. Do it! You'll be happy you did.
@technogrunt 3 жыл бұрын
Started at 45, 10 years ago. Training and coaching still. 2020
@shadymilkman443 3 жыл бұрын
Damn, training at 55? Good job. What belt are you at now?
@technogrunt 3 жыл бұрын
@@shadymilkman443 I just received my Black Belt last month. I'm a Coach at Renzo Gracie of NH. Thank you.
@suzanneorpen7762 3 жыл бұрын
@@technogrunt this is amazing, so inspirational , Oss
@toughfff712 3 жыл бұрын
40 today, been training for a year now. Love it. I feel my body having difficulty recoving, so I am still learning how to not press so hard.
@hollygamble15 4 жыл бұрын
The way you speak about jiu jitsu makes me feel really emotional for some reason. Definitely subscribed!
@jvm-tv 3 жыл бұрын
He projects strength and compassion. The best type of coach.
@Seven-gf7uo 3 жыл бұрын
Im 57 been rolling for 2 years my sons (11 & 14 ) have been rolling for 6 years. Sometimes i hate going to class but i always thank christ for the ability to share the mat w my sons and talk about our rolls on the way home. Most weeks we roll 3x per week. most of the guys are 30 years my junior or more their stronger faster and more flexible than I. occasionally there’s some ahole but most let me go at my own pace and occasionally say “good job old man” and those are my victories.
@WillMorales64 2 жыл бұрын
Started 2 months ago, At first I was lost, like learning a new language, now two months later, I am starting to put some submissions together, learning by rolling with higher skilled training partners and having a great professor that is patient and a good teacher is helping me stay engaged and motivated. Some days are harder than others, if I am too sore, I'll scale it back and make sure I allow my body to recover and hope to stay injury free. I am 57 years of age, and I am only getting younger, age is a mindset! OSS 🙏🥋☮️
@ricozam7733 2 жыл бұрын
Started BJJ 2 years ago at 50. I"m also light at 130 lbs. I'll just say the combination of age and low weight is bad. All I got was one injury after another: rib, calf, elbow, thumb, etc. Two months ago I quit, not worth all the injuries. Maybe if you are 50 but at least 160 lbs you are ok, not my case.
@ChrisMatakas Жыл бұрын
Rico, sorry to hear, my friend. Wishing you good health! While injuries are absolutely a part of the journey, I do believe that if you find the right environment for you, one can train Jiu Jitsu (and learn and grow) while minimizing damage. Should you feel called to try it again, I hope you find the right academy for you. Wishing you all the best!
@throwingwrenches Жыл бұрын
I started at 49 and now I am 52. I am diabetic. I was 20 lbs overweight. I lost all the fat and feel great. I am still diabetic but was able to cut down my medication in half along with an improved diet. I can now move better than even when I was in my 20's. I also had back pain before and now that is gone. I take it easier than the younger guys usually and have found the line on what level I can roll as to minimize the risk of getting injured and my dojo respects every member. Sometimes I get small injuries but I rest up or take a few days off and recover. It is worth it because of the fun and the health benefits are amazing.
@Desizgirl3 Жыл бұрын
Just started at 63. Love it!
@ChrisMatakas 5 жыл бұрын
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@hudsondecker5385 2 жыл бұрын
The goal is to grow in self knowledge in all things. A coordinated goal is to concurrently grow in knowledge of others and the world. Bjj is a way to accomplish all of these things. We have to start where we are. if we are rushing and impatient it means we have to grow in acceptance and in the ability to do what is needed today. Bjj is highly adaptive. Grow into it. I like the classic statement: the best time to start Bjj is 10 years ago and the next best is today!
@pascal0868 3 жыл бұрын
As a lifelong mart arts student I loved the complexity of the BJJ game. It was the stamina drain that stopped me in my tracks. I’m talking about vomiting after training every time. And the days it took to recovery.
@johnwill8467 2 жыл бұрын
I began BJJ at the ripe old age of 30 - now 65 - what's changed? The colour of my hair.
@onerider808 3 жыл бұрын
What I love about my academy is they treat me like any other athletic guy. I'm 61, and as fit as anyone (which is saying something in my academy). I like the "equality".
@Docinaplane 5 жыл бұрын
Thank you! Of all the "Are you too old for ....." videos I've seen on YT, this is by far the most honest. Yes, I am too old, but I'm doing it anyway in a controlled environment. My goal is to be able to grapple in a self-defense situation if I have to, as well as add to my skill set with a MA that is really fun. I've said for years that I thought BJJ was brilliant, and I wished it was around when I was younger. Then a few months ago, I figured, WTH :-) I wrestled a little in college so I have some mat sense, and I think that helps me. I also am very comfortable on my back even though I've heard that wrestlers are not. One other thing, because of a shoulder injury during my wrestling days, I learned to cross body ride to stall. With BJJ it seems, now I have some very nice offensive things I can do from the back :-)
@davespencer7326 3 жыл бұрын
I started bjj at 45 and went consistently for 3 years, I loved bjj but my body did not. My joints got to a point where the pain was so bad I had to stop. I thought it was a gluten allergy at first but after stopping bjj I found after a few months the pain I had daily for those years went away. That could have just been me. I would highly suggest anyone trying it out. Bjj is life changing and is extremely addicting once you get into it. I just wish my joints would have liked it more.
@phobowl 2 жыл бұрын
U sound like a great teacher. Someone I would be glad to learn from. OSS
@MrOhjok 3 жыл бұрын
Great perspective on age. It boils down to the individual; their physical and mental toughness and the ability to be consistent without extreme setbacks. There are people out there flourishing in various martial arts well into their sixties and even seventies. It all depends on who the person is. What they bring to the table. Ultimately, one has it, or one doesn't. A harsh reality, but reality just the same.
@kevinburpee5139 3 жыл бұрын
Yeah - age can be a factor in terms of healing and flexibility. But persistence is key. I’m 57 and started jiu jitsu about 4 months ago. Down over 60 pounds since then from jiu jitsu and of course healthy eating. Cardio is way up! So I think the key is to realize that you’re going to be sore and recovery takes longer than when you were 25. I could barely walk after class when I first started. Now - I can almost put my foot behind my head. With jiu jitsu I am finding that being older I rely on being wiser and choosing technique over trying to out muscle or even hustle the younger guys. But yeah - I get smashed anyway lol.
@kevinmask Жыл бұрын
I started at 46 made to 50 and then after having to stop about 3 times, decided not to continue. The stress of training (probably associated to where I was training and always being asked to participate in the competition classes AFTER the regular class) caused me to have a medical episode (sort of like PTSD, where your stress hormones are locked in the ON position) after finally having to go to the hospital after losing 30 lbs in two weeks with no training (my thyroid went hyper )! I had to hang it up. If I could find a place where it was less intense or I could practice less intense myself, I think I could still do it. (I'm 58 now)... I just seem to lack the self control to stay at my own pace when guys start pushing the pace. And because I was a big guy (muscle wise - 5'9" 220 lbs former power lifter, bodybuilder) guys always felt like they needed to go crazy with me and cardio me out. Which they did very effectively.
@Skankhunt-fc3fm 2 жыл бұрын
People have been telling me I'm to old to start bjj I'm 34 years old and have a fair bit of wear and tear already, I come from a boxing background. But I put all them negative voices to one side. I have now been to bjj twice and have signed up properly
@DarkKnight-tq5mr 9 ай бұрын
My limiting factor is the money side of it. All of the schools / Academies in my area are $160 +. I simply can’t afford that.
@xFastela 5 жыл бұрын
Started last month at 37. BJJ is amazing.
@ChrisMatakas 5 жыл бұрын
That is great, and super pumped that you've started your journey into this gentle art. I'm confident it will serve you well, and that you''ll gain much from it! Thank you for taking the time to watch the video!
@AWood28 3 жыл бұрын
Still rolling?
@xFastela 3 жыл бұрын
@@AWood28 unfortunately I haven't been able to train since last year because of the pandemic, and I'm nursing a disc bulge in my lower back. I'm hoping to start training again next year if everything goes well.
@AWood28 3 жыл бұрын
@@xFastela Bummer. Good luck with the back.
@ronthemogul 3 жыл бұрын
Just watched two 70 year old blue belts compete at pans. Never too old
@johannesbackx3368 5 жыл бұрын
I started BJJ at 50. Now I'm 51 and I am three stripes richer (and completed addicted). It's an awesome sport also for "old"people!.
@ChrisMatakas 5 жыл бұрын
When practiced currently like you are I couldn't agree more! I love the term 'richer' and thanks for taking the time to watch the video!
@cbrchris99 3 жыл бұрын
I started at 46. Lost time due to covid. Have a year in solid at 48 got my 4th stripe on my white belt. Only thing I'd say is make sure it's a school with a good mind set. Nothing wrong with 'getting after it' but, want people who respect injuries and ability levels.
@luissarduy6345 4 жыл бұрын
I’m 24 and feel to old
@onerider808 3 жыл бұрын
I feel you. Every day after porrada, I think I am too old for this shit. The next day, I'm eager to roll.
@ilikecringe Жыл бұрын
Same thing here but I think I'm gonna start anyway
@FR-ty5vn Жыл бұрын
I’m 55 1/2 and nobody respects my age - they treat me like I’m 18 😊
@hi-q2261 3 жыл бұрын
People don't need to be patronized or pitted what they do need is to win they must meet the "standard" that is required in your discipline if they cannot meet that standard whether it be age or injury you need to tell them
@marcusschloredt3423 4 жыл бұрын
You have great content. I bet your page blows up if you keep posting
@Mr.56Goldtop 4 жыл бұрын
This is the first too old to start BJJ video I've watched that mentions things like seniors that are "relatively healthy", "weaker joints". Most videos seem to be saying that age doesn't matter, come on in and sign up!! Well being an athlete in my younger days and now mid 60s, I can say that it generally doesn't work like that! There is a big difference between 50 and 60, and a huge difference from 40 to 60!! If I was in my early 40s, no problem, I was still athletically active then. But now, 20 years, one lower back surgery, and 50 lbs. later, I would be hesitant. To say the least.
@78logistics Жыл бұрын
I started just shy of 62 some 21 months ago. On the mats for 90 minutes of No Gi and 90 minutes of Open Mat this afternoon. Yes I hurt but it is a good hurt . EDIT Still at it at 64. About the same started to race motoecycles at the track.
@anahita777 3 жыл бұрын
Very useful video. Thanks. Ps: Your logo is beautiful
@ghostrot Жыл бұрын
I cant do bjj i need to be carefull had a broken vertebrea and 3 hernia operation and reumatoïde artritis spend years be carefull resting listen to dokters and be depressed now i start bjj for a few weeks cant sleep the knight after training cus of pain but im happy again ill take always 1 day off between training
@onechampion4128 2 жыл бұрын
I'm 300000 and started when I was 299997 I now am testing for black belt
@magcitrate Жыл бұрын
Dang, it took u whole 3 years. 🎉
@hristolozev1841 3 жыл бұрын
Just started last week age 44
@MonacoRocha 3 жыл бұрын
I'm 63 & been training since 1965 TKD,Karate,Boxing Swimming ,Long distance Running, Yoga Gymnastics Ect.. Non Stop training Still at 63 Train 7 days..... I will soon Start BJJ at TRISTAR GYM in Montreal .. George St. Pierre 's Gym & Firas Zahabi Teaches the BJJ Classes.....
@beaverstreefarm Жыл бұрын
I'm 77 years old and in great shape. Can I train in Jiu-Jitsu?
@whatif718 5 жыл бұрын
wish i would've learned this back as a white belt
@shae26919 Жыл бұрын
Why is it the natural path of things?
@TheOnlyOneStanding8079 3 жыл бұрын
Can a diabetic who is 53 train in BJJ
@shev1970 Жыл бұрын
First lesson at 52
@andyscorfield5358 2 жыл бұрын
You're never too old to do BJJ.
@DeathrashWhiplash Жыл бұрын
Here I am 26 thinkin did I wait too long to start 😂
@BURGAWMMA 3 жыл бұрын
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is literally tailor-made for older and larger athletes... most martial arts originated from Asian countries where an adult male is rarely over a hundred and thirty-five pounds so they're not exactly as big man friendly as European style martial arts. An older super heavyweight has much more difficult time pulling off standard martial arts techniques as opposed to someone who is 5 foot 5 + 130lbs that's why you see such a radical difference in techniques in different weight classes. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is simply Judo groundwork taken to it's ultimate level and while I find the butt scooting of modern sport Jiu Jitsu absolutely ridiculous if you train Brazilian jiu-jitsu as a martial art it is absolutely tailor-made for larger and older athletes. As those of us with long-term Judo and wrestling experience know groundwork is the best Focus for the older athlete because the impacts are lower and the frenetic pace is less extreme especially in lapel grappling!
@blkwarriorspirit5528 2 жыл бұрын
The moment you say I'm too old to do BJJ someone older than you will do it lol: the moment you say I got bum knees someone with one leg will do it lol; that's life lol
@ChrisMatakas 2 жыл бұрын
That indeed is true, and I'd say that applies to more things in life than solely BJJ!
@blkwarriorspirit5528 2 жыл бұрын
@@ChrisMatakas Awesome video professor Chris Matakas I'm also a BJJ practitioner on my journey. Im a over 45yr old Brown belt but I'm not in a hurry to get my Black belt. Lol I'm just learning having fun and riding the brown belt BJJ wave at this point lol. At brown belt I don't feel bad getting tapped by lower belts because I can hide behind the excuse that I'm learning lol. Anyways peace sir OSS 🥋
@ChrisMatakas 2 жыл бұрын
The student mindset will continue to serve you well.
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