r/karate • u/Bowd8t5 • 4d ago

Beginner Early days

Honestly not to sure why I'm writing this, if I want advice or reassurance or just to vent my thoughts but here we go . . .

So I'm 41, over 300lbs

And at the start of my karate journey, I've got recent experience in lifting and because of this I have a genuinely decent strength base and engine.

But my mobility sucks, I struggle with getting down on my knees to bow, I find the basics and line work ok. I'm no stranger to squats, olympic lifts etc etc. so I'm finding learning the basic kicks ok

But I'm not light on my feet, I don't bounce etc etc

I look at the rest of the class and the higher grades and there is a part of me that just thinks physically it's impossible for me to get there. At the moment my Gi jacket doesn't even close.

I'm determined to stick it out, but it's slowly dawning on me what an uphill battle I've got.

If anyone out there overcome the same I'd love to hear about it

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u/jjpeters88 4d ago

I am okay with all your statements, but I want you to add one thing to each. It’s to change your mentality around it. You’re there working to better yourself. I’ll give you some examples;

My mobility sucks for now

I am not light on my feet yet

I don’t bounce yet

Look to the upper belts to see where you’re going. Dedicate the time and energy, your mental state to improving.

YOU GOT THIS. Need encouragement, read it again and again.

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u/Bowd8t5 4d ago

This is awesome and much appreciated. To be honest I'm in a positive place. Years of Olympic Lifts, Squats and Deadlifts mean I'm quite heavy on my feet. But you are right it can change.