Old man sparring kids

[HighKick]

This 100%. When you're in your 40s fighting 16-18 year olds, they sometimes don't have the control that you do. They usually don't have to go to work the next day either. I don't mind fighting anyone if its under controlled conditions. There are always certain people you feel more confortable going harder with, usually because you know their hits are controlled and they are not out for ego.

As I've gotten older I've definitely switched to more hands for points and using kicks for distance. I always liked competing although men's weight classes for point fighting are terrible. Everyone is usaully 50 lbs heavier than me and 6 or more inches taller.

It is an issue, especially at smaller tournaments where the sign-up may not be huge.
May I ask what style you mainly compete in?

 

[philwhite]

I used to compete in minnesota and did the diamond nationals every year. I’m now in Iowa. Probably going to find something later this year or early 2026. I usually compete in open tournaments. Diamonds was always ok. I judged several times there as well.

The worst tournament I competed in was National Karate’s team tournament. I got mismatched against someone who was over a foot taller than me, much heavier, and no warning for excessive contact. It was BS. I get black belts can go harder but when you have a crazy size mismatch you have to be reasonable. I had to go to urgent care for a concussion. It was completely preventable on their part.