\u2018I\u2019m very active,\u2019 she says. \u2018In 1995, I\u202fachieved my black belt in karate. I still train now, which is one of the reasons why I managed to get into this jumpsuit 50 years later. Last year I had a hip operation and, blinking heck, I\u202fhave felt fantastic ever since. I did six backdrops this morning.\u2019 <\/p>\n
In the past, Brooks has spoken specifically about training in Aikido \u2013 a Japanese martial arts form which was created in Japan during the early-to-mid 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba. Roughly translating as \u2018the way of harmonious spirit\u2019, it focuses on relaxation, flexibility and endurance. <\/p>\n
What are the benefits of martial arts like Aikido?It improves balance and functional mobility <\/p>\n
While studies on Aikido specifically are limited, it\u2019s well established that martial arts in general are associated with benefits such as improvements in functional mobility and balance \u2013 both of which research<\/a> shows are vital components of healthy ageing. <\/p>\n Balance, in particular, is viewed as a crucial marker of longevity, with this study<\/a> in the British Journal of Sports Medicine showing the inability to balance for 10 seconds on one foot is associated with an 84% higher risk of all-cause mortality. <\/p>\n It\u2019s great for the body and mind <\/p>\n And unlike straightforward workouts such as strength training or cardio, studies<\/a> show that martial arts are effective across a multitude of both mental and physical factors, from cardiovascular conditioning and coordination to cognitive function and stress relief. <\/p>\n Stable mental health feeds directly into healthy ageing, too, with research<\/a> revealing a link between mental illness and shorter lifespan. And this is something Elkie enthuses over, telling The Guardian: \u2018I feel great\u2026 I\u2019m thoroughly enjoying myself \u2013 and plan to keep doing so.\u2019 <\/p>\n It\u2019s accessible <\/p>\n All this, as well as the fact that its low-impact and accessible enough even for beginners, makes Aikido perfect for incorporating movement into your everyday \u2013 which we know is an excellent way to future-proof our bodies. <\/p>\n It\u2019s a great way to meet people <\/p>\n It\u2019s a sad fact that loneliness increases the older we get, and is a major health concern in the elderly. Getting out and about to a martial arts class can help with social connection, as well as boosting self-esteem, too. <\/p>\n How to enjoy Aikido for longevity <\/p>\n Keen to give Aikido a go? Head to your local dojo (martial arts centre) for a class or find an online practice. <\/p>\n If it\u2019s good enough for Elkie\u2026 <\/p>\n Want to train like Liz Earle<\/a>?<\/p>\n
![\"liz](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/1794145572_573_158d5eb8-c2f6-4d60-9246-b048bac3f967.jpg\" "\\"liz")
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