Why You Should Start Juggling, Even After 50

Will Hitchcock

12/3/20244 min read

It is never too late to discover a new passion, and juggling is an ideal activity to explore, even after 50.

Often perceived as just a hobby or an artistic discipline, juggling is actually a practice with numerous benefits for both the body and the mind, perfectly suited for adults seeking a stimulating, accessible, and enjoyable activity.

1. A gentle but stimulating activity

A Gentle but Stimulating Activity

Unlike other physical activities, juggling does not require a high level of physical condition.

It is a gentle exercise that engages the muscles without overexerting them. By juggling, you mobilize your arms, shoulders, and even your legs, improving your motor coordination and flexibility.

This makes it an accessible activity, even for those who have not practiced sports for a long time. Additionally, juggling can be practiced at your own pace, without pressure.

You can start by gradually increasing the difficulty and choosing the equipment that suits you best. We recommend, for beginners, a type of equipment to prioritize (See "6. The Ideal Equipment to Juggle After 50").

Whether you are at home, in a park, or with a group, this practice perfectly adapts to your needs, your schedule, and can easily be taken anywhere with you.

2. Stimulate Your Brain and Concentration

Juggling is an excellent way to work your brain.

Studies have proven that practicing juggling creates new neural pathways in the brain, increases the volume of gray matter, and changes the structure of white matter, even after 60 years old, and this occurs as early as the first week!

By learning to juggle, you simultaneously stimulate both hemispheres of your brain, thereby enhancing hand-eye coordination, concentration, and memory. These cognitive benefits are particularly valuable starting at age 50, when intellectual stimulation becomes essential for maintaining brain functions.

Numerous studies show that activities like juggling help strengthen neural connections and slow cognitive decline. By juggling, you not only improve your mental agility but also help maintain your sharpness of mind.

3. A Way to Reduce Stress

After 50, juggling can become a relaxing and meditative activity. Repetitive movements, combined with intense concentration, help calm the mind and reduce stress.

With concentration, you enter a "flow" state, a sense of well-being that allows you to disconnect from daily worries.

Additionally, juggling encourages perseverance and frustration management. Learning new tricks or improving your technique can be challenging, but each progress, even small, brings great satisfaction.

4. A Social and Fun Activity

Juggling is also an excellent way to meet new people. Many juggling associations and clubs offer workshops and friendly gatherings.

It is an intergenerational activity where age barriers disappear. An activity easy to share with your children and grandchildren, in groups, during an outing by the water or in a park.

I always personally have a bag full of equipment in my car trunk, ready to share at every opportunity.

These are always moments rich in conviviality and sharing, that awaken our childlike souls.

5. An Accessible and Rewarding Challenge

Contrary to what one might think, juggling is within everyone's reach.
With a bit of patience and perseverance, it is entirely possible to learn the basics in a few hours.

This rapid learning curve is extremely motivating.
No matter your starting level, you will see concrete progress and feel a true sense of pride at each step achieved.

The key is to give yourself the necessary time to learn, not to be too hard on yourself, and above all... to enjoy being in the process!

Enjoyment is the key.

6. The Ideal Equipment to Juggle After 50

Although I encourage you to try everything, there is one type of equipment that, in my opinion, is suitable for everyone, from children to our oldest elders: bolas (or poïs).

Bolas are juggling implements composed of weights attached to strings (or sometimes chains), which are swung rhythmically to create patterns.

They have the advantage of staying attached to your hands, preventing them from falling to the ground with every movement mistake. Therefore, you will not have to bend down to pick them up repeatedly, as can be the case with other equipment.

Thus, the backs and knees of those who are more sensitive are spared.

By not falling, they also allow you to quickly gain confidence in yourself and your movements.

For someone venturing into the world of juggling for the first time, poïs (or bolas) represent an ideal entry point.

Juggling is much more than just a hobby: it is a comprehensive activity that stimulates the body and mind while providing a good dose of entertainment. After 50 years, it is an ideal opportunity to take on a new challenge, stay active, and cultivate your daily well-being. So, why not try it? All you need is equipment… and a little curiosity!

We offer equipment for beginners and enthusiasts, as well as video tutorials to allow you to start your adventure under the best conditions.

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