83-Year-Old Gran Kicks Ageism to the Curb with Taekwondo Triumph

At the sprightly age of 83, Ann Bigger, a grandmother from North Hykeham in Lincolnshire, has proven that age is no barrier to learning new skills. She’s just earned her first graded belt in taekwondo, having taken up the martial art only earlier this year. After nights and days of dedicated practice, she was awarded her yellow striped belt this Monday. Her son, Mark Bigger, a seasoned martial arts trainer at the North Hykeham Tae Kwon Do Club for 15 years, has been her guide on this unique journey. According to him, taekwondo offers both physical and mental health benefits for all ages. Still, Ann admits the learning process has been challenging, as the martial art requires mastering a complex set of hand and foot movements. Nevertheless, she’s relishing the experience, especially enjoying the camaraderie and coffee chats after the training sessions. According to Mark, Ann needs to ‘up her game’, but he admits he’s impressed by her commitment and progress, even practicing moves whilst grocery shopping. Beyond the physical fitness and new friendships, Ann has reaped health benefits too. A recent doctor’s visit revealed her blood pressure has improved since she started taekwondo. Starting out as a nervous white belt, Ann is now a proud, yellow striped belt holder, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to embracing new challenges.