Based in Jasper, Indiana, James Birkle, is proving daily that advanced age does not rule out an active and fulfilled life.

Now 83, He is the co-founder & chief instructor for Stick Fit “Senior Strong ” program. An accomplished martial artist, over 48 years plus, in Martial-Arts. He is a certified Black Belt in karate Bushido, 6th Degree Black Belt  (2020)), American Kenpo (2nd Degree Black Belt (2011)), and  Jujitsu (1st Degree Black Belt, Kodenkan (2013)).

James, started  Tai Chi, and Qigong In 2010. He was classified as a ‘Tai Chi Leader’ in 2012. In 2018 , James completed The High Understandings of Taiji (Tai Chi) Training Course in Nova Scotia (Canada) School of Kung Fu, Tai Ch. Also, in (2018), he received his Certificate of Completion in ‘Live Energy Regulation (Qigong)’ in Boston, Massachusetts.

James is a member of U.S.A. Martial Arts Hall of Fame, MMAM Hall of Fame & Ambassador, Golden Gate Hall of Honors, Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Honors, Masters of the Martial Arts Hall of Fame, the Independent Martial Arts Federation, and the USA Sport Jujitsu Association. He traveled to Geneva, Switzerland in 2013 as part of a team representing the United States. In Geneva he captured the Gold Medal in self-defense competition against competitors less than half his age of 72. James returned to Geneva as an honored guest In 2018.

Since starting the ‘Senior Stick Fit’, in 2012, Jim provideTai Chi training and instruction to  senior adults in the southern Indiana area. Jim continues to educate himself in his art and other arts which complement his art while seeking help others improve their health through this ancient authentic healing arts.