The Benefits of Taekwondo

A combination of combat and self-defence, taekwondo is known for its focus on footwork, kicking techniques, and hand strikes. It’s also renowned for its discipline and focus, and that doesn’t just mean physical discipline (though it certainly helps with that). It means mental and emotional discipline as well.

The sport is governed by a set of rules which include a maximum height limit for kicks, a prohibition on grabbing an opponent, and a rule whereby fighters who earn a penalty are automatically disqualified. Penalties can be awarded for a number of actions including stepping outside the boundary line, feigning injury, and turning one’s back to an opponent (called “doping”).

Taekwondo requires excellent balance with both legs, which can be improved with daily stretches. Begin with lower body stretches such as groin stretches and standing calf stretches, followed by core stretches such as forearm rolls, angled rotations and crossed leg stretches. You can also practice balance with exercises such as mountain climbers and squat thrusts.

Besides improving balance and boosting your flexibility, taekwondo burns a lot of calories. It can also help strengthen bones, making them less prone to breaks and fractures and helping prevent degenerative bone diseases like osteoporosis. In addition, the physical activity of taekwondo stimulates the production of serotonin in your brain, which can make you feel happier and more calm. This is because it balances the neurochemicals in your brain and helps fight conditions like depression and anxiety, which can be caused by low levels of serotonin.