“At the age of 66 I was contemplating retirement. What would I do? Family, grandchildren, travel, gardening, music, etc. I considered all the usuals, but realised the portfolio did not contain any sport or physical activity. I was not a golfer, bowls could wait, and in fact my sporting activities had been negligible since the end of my academic studies, with a brief interlude of being beaten by my sons when they were about twelve in tennis, table tennis, and squash. By chance I saw an advertisement for Schools of Kung Fu Kingston on Carlton Road in South Croydon. The advert said "It’s never too late to start training”, so I telephoned asking if I was too old. "No” came the cheery reply, "come and try one of our free introductory lessons.” Well, there was nothing to lose so with slight trepidation I arrived at the school on a Tuesday evening. This place was not a clique of super-fit experts, there was an immediate greeting from the instructors and a noded greeting or "hallo” from total strangers: large, small, young or more mature. I was immediately introduced to a member who was asked to "look after me”. First came a warm-up session. The extremely fit instructor guided us through a routine, some strenuous but always prefaced with the advice "Only do what you can and feel comfortable with”, which ensured I was not embarrassed as some people could touch their toes while I caressed just below my knees. Then to the Kung Fu. Well, I had no knowledge of martial arts other than years ago from watching the David Carradine TV series Kung Fu. I became very quickly absorbed and fascinated in martial arts. With very slight movements, an understanding of using the body to avoid contact and using an opponent’s strength. The time flew and by the end of the session, I left feeling slightly creaky but motivated in mind and body and spirit. I like how there is no pressure to take grades and the instructors tell you when you are ready to be tested, so I can progress at my own rate. I am now very proud to say I am a 2nd Degree Black Belt and I still really enjoy every part of my training.”