The common question for people over 40 is if someone over this age can really begin training in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. The unqualified answer is yes. However, there are few caveats for those who are beginning for the first time.

It is important to keep on with the BJJ training after joining. It should not be taken to mean that undergoing the training is physically demanding always. What is important is to manage the focus, discipline, new choices and thought leaders as they demand something from us.

Secondly, selecting your school for BJJ training can be an important decision that you may have to take. This is true irrespective of whether you are old or young. When it comes to age, it is important to prepare yourself mentally to accrue the benefits of martial arts training over time. And that is true even if all that you look for is some basics in self-defence that you can master by doing it repeatedly over time. But never think yourself as too old to start training in this form of martial art.

Now irrespective of whether you are 40 years old or not, there are a few important things that need to be considered when planning to practice martial arts like BJJ.

Look for a place that is not solely dedicated to training fighters: It makes sense to enrol in a school that is not devoted solely to competition and fighting.

Watch the students: Find out if the students attending are being aggressive and competitive or they learn BJJ techniques in a playful manner and are actually enjoying their classes. Do they care for their partner if the partner accidentally bumps into them? This will indicate the temperament of the school.

Discuss with the instructor: See to it that the instructor has time for you. Do they ask you about your physical condition? If they do not do, move to another school. There will be some school that will pay attention to you that you deserve.

Be a practitioner trying to improve: If you are an older person, ensure not to pull down a younger member down, and if you are a younger person, there is no need for you to resort to one-upmanship your classmates.

Work slow and steady: You may be excited in your new class to learn and get good. But it would do well to just relax and get into regular 2-3 classes a week, and you will reach your desired goal faster.

Remember, there are likely to be many students younger than you, many of whom will be quite experienced than you on the mat together. Give them their due respect. Listen to what they say. They are likely to be right if their instructor has trained them well.

Once you have found the right place to undergo BJJ training for adults, you are likely to have people whom you can trust. It will be easier for you to assimilate yourself into the culture of the school, and you will surely do fine. It is important that you enjoy your training session well.