You can teach old dogs new tricks!

What has this got to do with Karate training in Auckland you may ask? Well, for many years it was assumed that as we aged, our brain could only face the inevitable slow decline of old age. Now it is known that in fact at any age we can build new neural pathways but there is a catch. We have to be learning and challenging our brain. Evidence points to achieving significant Neurogenesis (new neural cells and connections) though activities that challenge both the right and left sides of the brain. Karate is a perfect example of such an activity. Whilst physically coordinating yourself you must visualise patterns and recall technique subtleties. This is a perfect total brain workout, special awareness, memory recall, body movement etc. This Karate practice will also put students in the ‘moment’ which recently gets allot of publicity under the banner of ‘Mindfulness’. It is a perfect remedy to the stress of life. It is potentially for these reasons that many martial artists enjoy healthy longevity. Within the Auckland Karate organisation that Kohi Karate belongs to we have many good examples of seniors belts training into their 60s and 70s and many new adults joining in their senior years. As an instructor I often receive comments from satisfied parents of how the Karate training we have in Auckland is helping their child’s confidence, behavior, their posture and of course their overall co-ordination. I also note these same changes within adults after a few months of training. Many arrive with the belief that they are stuck with their 2 left feet (and 2 left hands) but slowly they develop better mind body connections, show improved health and going forward are able to learn new techniques much faster. So not only can you teach an old dog new tricks, but you can also teach them new Karate techniques. If you are no longer a puppy but wish to keep your mind and body active, connected and in a state of growth instead of decline then contact us at Kohi Karate, Auckland.