~~NOCACHE~~ //This page last changed ~~LASTMOD~~ visits: {{counter|today| time| times}} today, {{counter|yesterday| time| times}} yesterday, and {{counter|total| time total so far| total times}}// Here are three well-reviewed martial-arts schools near Lexington, MA that offer adult classes (karate or taekwondo). You might want to call ahead to confirm current adult-class schedules and fees. 1. New Generation Martial Arts * Location: 240 Bedford St # 1, Lexington, MA 02420. * Description: Established in 1996, this school offers classes for “all ages and skill levels” including teens and adults. * Why it might be a good fit: It’s right in Lexington, so no big commute. The inclusive age-range means adult classes should be available. * Tip: Ask about how many adults are in classes and whether the pace is beginner-friendly. 2. Allan Azoff Martial Arts Academy * Location: 177 Bedford St, Lexington, MA 02420. * Description: This academy advertises programs “for students of all ages, from as young as 5 to adults.” * Why it might be a good fit: Focus on adult-friendly training (both physically and mentally) in town. * Tip: Ask what styles are offered for adults (karate, self‐defense, etc.) and what belt progression looks like for grown-ups. * Uechi Ryu Karate 3. Elite Freestyle Karate – Lexington Studio * Location: 21 Muzzey St, Lexington, MA 02421. * Description: Offers “Premier Martial Arts instruction” in Lexington. * Why it might be a good fit: Convenient location and likely to have adult-friendly options (even if explicitly stated for kids, many such schools offer adult drop-in or evening classes). * Tip: Check if they have beginner adult classes and what class times are (evenings or weekends might be best if you have a day job). Here are several more martial arts / taekwondo / karate schools around Lexington, MA that may offer adult classes. (Always call to confirm current adult class availability, schedules, costs, and whether they teach the style you prefer.) 🥋 Martial Arts / Karate / Taekwondo Schools Near Lexington, MA New Generation Martial Arts * Address: 240 Bedford St #1, Lexington, MA * Notes: Already in Lexington, so minimal commute. They advertise classes for “all ages and skill levels.” * Suggestion: Ask them what evening adult beginner classes they have and how many adults are in a class. Allan Azoff Martial Arts Academy * Address: 177 Bedford St, Lexington, MA * Notes: Local to Lexington, advertises programs “for students of all ages, from as young as 5 to adults.” * Suggestion: Ask whether the adult track is separate (so you’re not mixed with much younger students) and what belt progression looks like. Elite Freestyle Karate * Address: 21 Muzzey St, Lexington, MA * Notes: Convenient location; may run evening classes (often the time adults train). * Suggestion: Check if they have “adult beginner” times, or “drop-in” adult classes. Premier Martial Arts Burlington * Address: 156 Cambridge St, Burlington, MA * Notes: Burlington is only a short drive from Lexington. This is part of a chain (“Premier Martial Arts”) that often offers structured programs and adult classes. * Suggestion: Because it’s a larger school, they may have multiple adult class times (morning, evening, weekend). Zhen Ren Chuan Martial Arts * Address: 301 Broadway, Arlington, MA * Notes: Arlington is nearby. Zhen Ren Chuan is a school that tends to have traditional martial arts classes (e.g. Kung Fu, etc.), but many such schools also offer karate or self-defense classes. * Suggestion: Even if they don’t teach “karate,” ask if they teach a style you like (or a hybrid) suitable for adult students. United Shaolin Kempo Karate * Address: Waltham Athletic Club, 249 Lexington St, Waltham, MA * Notes: This is a bit farther, but might have good adult programs. Kempo is a mixed style with striking, so it’s somewhat intermediate between full karate and general self-defense. * Suggestion: If you don’t mind commuting, this could open more options for times and variety. Apex Defense Waltham * Address: 130 Lexington St, Waltham, MA * Notes: They tend to have a strong adult / self-defense orientation (often more mixed martial arts, but often such schools also run traditional classes). * Suggestion: Ask what traditional martial arts (karate, taekwondo) they teach vs. MMA or self-defense. True Martial Arts Academy * Address: 411 Waverley Oaks Rd #169, Waltham, MA * Notes: More distance, but might have adult classes, especially in evenings or weekends. * Suggestion: Ask for their schedule of adult vs youth classes, and whether there is a beginner adult track. Ku’s TaeKwonDo Academy * Address: 135 Main St, Woburn, MA * Notes: Woburn is somewhat farther, but if you’re particularly interested in taekwondo (rather than generic karate), this could be a good choice. * Suggestion: Inquire specifically about their adult taekwondo classes (forms, sparring, belt test for adults). Bushido Martial Arts Academy * Address: 396 Trapelo Rd, Belmont, MA * Notes: Belmont is more of a drive but still within reach. Schools with traditional names like “Bushido” often emphasize martial arts philosophy, discipline, and may have robust adult classes. * Suggestion: Ask if they run adult beginner classes, and whether they have “no experience required” classes. Rocky Di Rico’s School‑Kenpo * Address: 14 Park Ave, Arlington, MA * Notes: Kenpo is a style related to karate; this could be a good match if you are open to similar striking arts. * Suggestion: Ask if they separate adult classes from kids, or run co-ed/mixed-age classes at times suitable for adults. Rising Storm Training Academy * Address: 123 Muller Rd, Burlington, MA * Notes: Another option in Burlington. May have evening/weekend adult classes, especially in a dedicated “training academy” setup. * Suggestion: Ask about class times for adults and whether there are “intro to karate” options. Eight Animal Martial Arts * Address: 375 Concord Ave, Belmont, MA * Notes: Though Belmont is farther, this school might have styles or classes appealing to adults (e.g. mixed arts). * Suggestion: Even if they don’t list “karate,” ask whether they have striking, forms, or weapons classes open to adults. ====== \\ Considerations for those over 70 ====== Karate (and Taekwondo or similar martial arts) can be very beneficial for people over 70, but it’s important to approach it with the right expectations, safety measures, and mindset. Here’s a clear breakdown of what to consider before beginning: 🩺 1. Medical and Physical Readiness * Get medical clearance first. Have a quick chat with your primary care provider or cardiologist, especially if you have heart issues, arthritis, joint replacements, osteoporosis, balance problems, or any chronic conditions. * Ask about safe activity levels. For example, you might need to avoid high-impact kicks or jumping drills. * Check your blood pressure and balance regularly. Karate involves quick changes of direction, which can cause dizziness in some older adults. 🥋 2. Choosing the Right School and Instructor * Find a school that welcomes older beginners. Some do, some don’t. Look for instructors experienced in working with adults and seniors. * Ask about class pace and structure. Ideally, you want a small class or mixed-level session where you can move at your own speed. * Observe a class first. Look for warm-ups that focus on flexibility and balance, not just fast or competitive sparring. * Avoid schools that push contact sparring or heavy competition. Look for traditional or self-defense–focused dojos. 🧘 3. Training Focus for Seniors Karate offers much more than just physical fighting — it can improve: * Balance and stability (reduces fall risk) * Flexibility and coordination * Mental sharpness and focus * Confidence and stress reduction At 70+, the goal is lifelong fitness and mental engagement, not breaking boards or winning matches. ⚖️ 4. Adjusting Expectations and Techniques * Low-impact kicks only. Focus on form, not height — kicks at knee or waist level are plenty effective. * Controlled punches and blocks. No need for full-force strikes; proper technique builds strength safely. * Modify stances. Deep stances can strain knees and hips; your instructor should help you find comfortable alternatives. * Emphasize breathing and mindfulness. Karate’s meditative aspects can be calming and improve focus. 🧠 5. Cognitive and Emotional Benefits * Karate involves memorizing forms (kata), left-right coordination, and reaction timing — all great for brain health. * It also provides social connection, structure, and a sense of accomplishment — important at any age. 👟 6. Practical Preparation * Good footwear: If barefoot training is uncomfortable, ask if soft martial arts shoes are allowed. * Hydration: Dehydration affects balance and focus more at older ages. * Gradual progression: Start with 1–2 classes a week and build up. * Recovery time: Expect to feel some soreness at first; allow time between classes for your muscles and joints to adapt. 🚫 7. Warning Signs to Pause or Modify Stop or modify activity if you experience: * Dizziness or lightheadedness * Sharp joint or back pain * Unusual shortness of breath * Sudden fatigue or imbalance Your instructor should help you substitute moves safely — never “push through pain.” ✅ Summary: A Smart Plan for a 70+ Beginner | \\ Step| \\ Action| | \\ 1| \\ Medical check and clearance| | \\ 2| \\ Observe and try a gentle class first| | \\ 3| \\ Choose a dojo with adult-friendly, low-impact focus| | \\ 4| \\ Focus on technique, flexibility, breathing, and balance| | \\ 5| \\ Progress at your own pace and enjoy the journey| Here are three martial-arts schools in/near Lexington, MA that are worth contacting about adult programs (and may well accommodate older beginners). I recommend calling them to ask specifically about adult-beginner class times, pace modifications, and how comfortable they are working with older adults. 1. New Generation Martial Arts Address: 240 Bedford St #1, Lexington, MA 02420. Why consider it: Their website/listing notes they offer instruction for “all ages and skill levels” including adults. Questions to ask: * Do they have a separate adult-beginner class (so you’re not mixed in with children/teens)? * What time(s) are adult classes (especially evenings/weekends)? * How do they accommodate older students (e.g., slower pace, less high-impact moves)? 2. Allan Azoff Martial Arts Academy Address: 177 Bedford St, Lexington, MA 02420. Why consider it: They advertise a broad program for students of all ages (including adults) and mention a holistic approach (fitness, self-defense). Questions to ask: * Do they have actual adult beginners’ classes (and how many adults attend)? * How do they tailor training for older students (e.g., joint health, balance)? * Is sparring/contact optional or limited for adult beginners? 3. Premier Martial Arts Burlington Address: 156 Cambridge St, Burlington, MA 01803. Why consider it: Although in Burlington (slightly further commute), Premier is a larger chain and may have more flexible scheduling and adult class options (which could be helpful for an older beginner). Questions to ask: * Are there adult-only classes, and what are the times? * Do they have “senior friendly” modifications (e.g., fewer jumps, more emphasis on balance/coordination)? * Can you try a session or drop-in to see how you feel in the class?