Sparring Drills Are A Vital Part Of The Learning Experience In Taekwondo

Image via WikipediaMy instructor was lecturing me about the importance of our Taekwondo sparring drills. I enjoyed the drills just as much as everyone else in the dojo, but I was not sure where my instructor was going with this particular lecture. Her large, attentive eyes made contact with mine as they always do. She was just a little shorter than me (and I'm short), but she was an experienced black belt with a lot of skill in Taekwondo. I always enjoyed listening to her lectures, especially when she was speaking to only me.

She continued to tell me about her first competition and how she felt a little anxious about how the competition would go. She was nervous because she was not sure about what exactly went on during the competitions, but was soon taught that we can never be sure about what would take place and where it would take place. On the street, in a hallway, in a parking garage - it could be anywhere by anyone - should we get attacked. We should think of our competitions as just that. It is entering the unknown, and we should use that fear to focus our abilities on training with our Taekwondo sparring drills.

I began to understand what she was talking to me about when she mentioned the word technique. In any martial arts, technique is vital to learning the martial art, as well as winning more competitions. "We learn technique through practice, starting slow and eventually being able to memorize those movements with our bodies. True technique comes with practice and routine," she continued. I remembered just starting out in Taekwondo and getting each movement just so in a slow and structured manner. Eventually I was able to do any beginner's move and combination with just the word of my instructor. I saw where she was heading with this particular lecture. I knew I needed to train hard for this first competition of mine, and practicing our sparring drills was a great way to do so.

My instructor had a great way of creating plans for each individual student to follow through for practice for any competition. She gave me mine, and my drill partner - a large man with a black belt proudly tied to his waist. I thought she had mistaken who my drilling partner should be because this man was very experienced and much larger than I. However, drilling with an experienced partner would be good for me. I could learn a lot from him, and sparring with him would be the best way to get ready for my competition. My sparring strategies were to be practicing again what I had learned since I began, but this time I would be sparring, not just practicing alone or with pads.

My favorite sparring drills were working on powering my kicks, and working on my speed. These techniques are vital in Taekwondo. You must have power and speed to succeed. My instructor had also given me a few combinations to practice regularly with my sparring partner and alone. I had to memorize these combinations in order to bring them to the competition with me. Throughout the next few weeks I worked on power, speed, timing, combinations, fake outs, and maintaining my energy. Without my instructor and assigned sparring partner, I could not have won my very first competition.

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Taekwondo Training For All Ages

Taekwondo is a martial art originating from Korea. Taekwondo translated means "the way of the hand and foot", consequently, the emphasis of Taekwondo is on discipline with hand and foot movements and techniques. People begin taking Taekwondo classes for various reasons. This martial art has many applications and benefits, such as physical conditioning, mental and physical discipline, self defense, and more. It provides the opportunity to engage with others in a fun, challenging and beneficial activity.

Beginning Taekwondo training can at first be intimidating. Some fear that they are out of shape, too old, not athletic enough, and a plethora of other reasons that keep them from starting. But the first step is the hardest. Once people from small children to the elderly begin Taekwondo training, they find that in the hands of an experienced instructor, they can progress at a pace that is possible for them regardless of all the concerns they go in with. Anyone with a desire to learn can make good progress in Taekwondo.
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Most Taekwondo classes are family friendly, and great for anyone from single people to whole families. In fact, martial arts are a great opportunity for families to connect around a common bond, all with a goal of progressing toward the ultimate goal which is black belt. And young students learn discipline and a set of principles that are expected to be adhered to both in and out of class. The Taekwondo student oath and the tenets of Taekwondo, that are memorized and applied, are principle by which any parent would desire their kids to adhere. A strong degree of respect is expected of students, both in and out of class for instructors, seniors and each other.




Whether male or female, young, old, or in between, Taekwondo training can improve mind, body, and self confidence.In addition, you can obtain those benefits while in a fun, challenging martial arts experience. There is no reason not to take spouse and kids together to explore the world of Taekwondo training. Most martial arts schools invite potential students to try out a couple of classes before committing.

Small children develop early interest in martial arts and a child as young as four years old is generally capable of learning (and having fun) learning basic Taekwondo moves, and developing the discipline that will stay with them for a lifetime. The teenager looking for a mental compass can develop self confidence and decisiveness beyond their years with Taekwondo training. The adult can develop lifelong goals undertaking a challenging progressive physical and mental activity. The elderly can benefit both physically and mentally with martial arts programs developed specifically for them.

Hopefully this has given you a good reason at some level, to undertake, possibly with your whole family, an activity that will be of great benefit to anyone, mentally and physically. Check out a Taekwondo school near you today.

At the Fort Smith Taekwondo Academy in Fort Smith, Arkansas, martial arts training is performed by experienced, expert teachers. Whether for men or women, children, adult, and the elderly, Taekwondo training will provide significant benefits both mentally and physically.

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A Guide to Taekwondo Belt Colors

The belts and their colors that are used with Taekwondo aren't just a random assortment of colors that are used to separate the ranks in the martial art. In Taekwondo, each belt color has a meaning that lets fighters known about their advancement and increasing knowledge. Belts are also great for the stylist, as they let the stylist know just how far they have progressed.

The colors of the belts found in Taekwondo vary, as they represent the advancement of rank, as well as the growth of the student. It can take a long time for students to move up the ranks, all depending on their knowledge and how quite they adapt to the techniques and forms of the art.

Below, are the colors and belts of Taekwondo, along with their meaning.White Belt

White belt

A white belt is the symbol of birth, or the beginning for the stylist. Students that wear white belts are just starting out, searching for the knowledge to continue Taekwondo.

Yellow belt

A yellow belt is the first ray of light that shines on the student, giving them new strength to the Taekwondo martial art. Students that have yellow belts have taken a great step in learning, and have opened their mind to new techniques.

Green belt

A green belt is the symbol of growth, or a seed as it sprouts from the ground and begins to grow into a plant. Students with green belts are continuing along the path of Taekwondo, learning to develop further and redefine every technique they have been taught.

Blue belt

A blue belt represents a blue sky, with the plant continuing to grow upwards, heading for the sky. Students with blue belts continue to move higher in ranks, as the plant continues to grow taller. Students at this stage will also be given additional knowledge of Taekwondo so that their mind and body can continue to grow and develop.

Red belt

The red belt is the heat of the sun, with the plant continuing the path upwards toward the sun. Students that possess red belts are higher in rank, as they have acquired a lot of the knowledge in the art of Taekwondo. Red belts also tell the students to be cautious, as they gain more knowledge and their physical techniques increase.

Black belt

A black belt is the best of the best. It symbolizes the darkness that is out there beyond the light of the sun. Once the student is given a black belt and begins to train other students, he will teach all that has been taught to him. Black belts recognize the best students, as they continue to teach others the art of Taekwondo, and continue the never ending cycle of training.

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A to Z of Taekwondo

A.... is for Attentive. Taekwondo kids are very attentive.

For them to learn complicated taekwondo kicks and moves. They must concentrate hard. By being attentive and focus, their attention span gets longer. And longer.

They learn to be still. And really listen. And of course their school teachers welcome the change!

B.... is for Behavior. Good Behavior.

Kids in taekwondo learn great taekwondo principles. Like courtesy,respect the eldest and self-control. They learn to behave well in the taekwondo dojang. And in life too.

C.... is for Confident. Kids training in taekwondo become confident.
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As they strive to reach the goals. Perform taekwondo patterns in front of the class. And break through wooden boards.

We will see self-confidence grow slowly inside them. They start to believe in themselves. And it shines through in everything they do. They walk with their heads high. Speak clearly in front of the class. And chat easily to grown-ups.

D.... is for Discipline. There's two parts to this.

Firstly - Taekwondo kids learn to do as they are told. They come to understand that if they want to get better. And do great taekwondo kicks. They have to be quiet. And listen. And follow the instructions they are given.

Secondly - Children in taekwondo also learn self-discipline. They learn that if they want to be good at taekwondo. Or anything worthwhile but difficult. They have to push themselves. And focus.

They have to turn up for training. Every week. And give their best.... Even when they don't feel like it.

E.... is for Energy. Kids have so much of it.

They can run and play all day. And still be up for a game of football in the evening.

We love to see taekwondo kids using this energy. And putting it to good use. And getting great results.

F... is for Fitness.

Training in taekwondo gets kids fit. They run, jump, kick and punch. They do push-ups and sit-ups. And they stretch and stay flexible. And benefit from all round taekwondo fitness.

G....is for Gentle.

Being gentle is a hugely important part of martial arts.

The best taekwondo instructors are gentle. And in turn their students learn to be gentle. And patient. Especially when teaching younger kids.

H.... is for Happy!

If you watch a taekwondo class. You'll see happy kids. They just love it!

I.... is for Individuals.

Kids in taekwondo learn that everyone is different. That everyone learns at their own pace. And that everyone is good at something.

They learn to respect themselves as individuals. For who they are. And to respect their class-mates. For who they are.

J.... is for Justice. Peace and Justice.

Taekwondo kids are encouraged to become champions of peace and justice. Young people who stand up for what's right. And help the weak. Even if this doesn't make them popular at the time.

K....is for Kicks! Cool Kicks!

Taekwondo is a kicking martial art. And kids in taekwondo quickly learn the basics. Then move on to do fabulous spinning and jumping kicks. Which are great fun to watch. And great fun to do. And because they are kids. They can really throw themselves into their techniques. Because when they fall they don't hurt themselves. (Of course we're not jealous! Well maybe a little!)

L....is for Like. Taekwondo Kids Like themselves.

Taekwondo helps kids to get fit. And feel and look healthy and well. And taekwondo kids work hard to achieve tough goals. And are proud of what they achieve.

All this helps kids to think good things about themselves. Which builds self-esteem.

M....is for Motivated.

Kids in taekwondo become motivated to do well. To achieve their goals. To be as good as the great role-models they train with.

N....is for nurtured.

We see great taekwondo instructors and senior students really nurture the kids in their classes. Support them through difficult times. And be really proud of their successes. And in turn,kids in taekwondo learn to nurture their younger peers.

O....is for opportunity.

There are fantastic opportunities out there for kids in taekwondo. They can learn to teach. And test themselves in competitions. They can travel overseas for seminars. Or training tours. See a bit of the world. And learn about other cultures. Which will broadens their horizons. They can meet great people. Fit, healthy, motivated people. Fantastic people for children to be around.

P...is for Perseverance.

Taekwondo kids know the power of perseverance. They learn that if they want to succeed. Taekwondo is rather difficult (sometimes) but worthwhile.

Then they'll have to keep trying. And face failure. And not give up when things are hard. But keep on and on trying and trying. Until... They get there!

Q....is for Quiet. We've noticed that kids in the taekwondo learn how to be quiet. How to stop talking. And how to sit quietly and listen. And be open to new ideas.

R....is for Respect. A huge part of martial arts training. Taekwondo kids learn to respect their instructor. Their martial art. Their fellow students. And themselves.

S....is for Self-control. Taekwondo kids learn powerful techniques, and they also learn about self-control. They learn never to misuse their taekwondo.

At first this is because their instructor tells them not to. But in time they realise they don't need to. Because as kids train in taekwondo, become more confident in themselves. And more peaceful inside. So they find there is no need to lose control. And shout. Or kick. Or punch.

T....is for Tough!

Taekwondo kids become tough! They face tough challenges in their training. Like full-contact sparring. Where they have to come through fear. And take a few knocks. And get back up. And keep going.

This prepares them for life... Which as we all know...Is tough!

U....is for United.

Kids in taekwondo become strong, united teams. As they train together. And support each other. They learn about teamwork. And they learn that by working as a team. They can achieve more. Much, much more. Than they ever could on their own.

V....is for Very Very Calm.

A definite calmness descend on taekwondo kids. They become happy. And peaceful in their own skins. With a quiet assured self-confidence. It's lovely to see.

W....is for Wise. Street-Wise.

Through taekwondo self defense training, kids learn about dangerous situations. They learn how to stay out of trouble. And avoid arguments. And they learn good ways to deal with confrontation. How to diffuse other peoples' anger without backing down. And how to defend themselves if they really have to.

X....is for eXcellence!

Being good at something. Striving to be the best you can be. And lots of kids in taekwondo reach fantastic heights.

This is especially important for kids to have something worthwhile that they excel at. This will make them feel proud of themselves and their achievements

Y....is for Yes!

Kids in taekwondo learn to say Yes. They learn to take on new challenges. Try new things. Push themselves out of their comfort zones. And in doing so. They keep growing!

Z....is for Zest. Zest for life!

Brilliant to see in taekwondo kids of all ages! Even the grown up ones!

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