The Benefits of Taekwondo

A traditional martial art, taekwondo involves the use of hand strikes and kicks, as well as a variety of grappling techniques. Matches are contested over three rounds (two minutes in length for men, two minutes for women) and a winner is determined through either scoring points or achieving a knockout. Kicks and punches are allowed to the torso and head, but attacking below the waist is not permitted. A contestant can score a point by landing an effective blow to the opponent’s body or head, but points can also be awarded for techniques that demonstrate superior execution or skill.

Flexibility

The kicking and striking moves taught in taekwondo are designed to be both powerful and accurate, which is why good footwork is so important. A good martial artist will take short, compressed steps rather than long, plodding ones, as this allows them to move quickly and change direction more easily.

Physical Strength

During your training, you’ll work on your overall strength and endurance, and learn to defend yourself from various attacks from imaginary assailants. You’ll develop the ability to keep going even when you’re tired, and your punches will have more power as you learn to use your legs and core to generate force, as opposed to just using your arm strength.

Mental Strength

The discipline, confidence and focus that you’ll develop through taekwondo will help you in all areas of life. You’ll be able to concentrate better in school, deal with peer pressures and temptations and find non-violent ways of resolving conflict.