Taekwon Do Benefits If practiced correctly with an experienced instructor martial art training can positively impact the rest of your life. There are many benefits of Taekwon Do for all ages depending on what you wish to achieve throughout your training. Martial art training is something which should not have an age limit because everyone, regardless of age and ability, can get something positive back out of their Taekwon Do training if they are taught correctly. SELF DEFENCE Learning the ability to defend yourself has a lot to do with self confidence, one compliments the other. Self defence is a natural by-product of any martial art and is one of the main reasons why people continue to train, to ensure that the skills they have learnt are at the forefront of their mind. SELF CONFIDENCE A lot of adults as well as juniors have low confidence and self esteem before and after they step foot on the floor to train and this is one of the main reasons for people to join a Taekwon Do club. Through your Taekwon Do training you should automatically gain more confidence both physically and mentally. Your instructor is instrumental in this, in encouraging you in the right direction and giving you advice as well as positive criticism on your training. Parts of your Taekwon Do training, if you wish to do so, are regular gradings (going for next belts), competitions and educational seminars. However, every single person is an individual and is allowed to go at their own pace when it comes to gradings. If you are in any doubt then go and speak to your instructor. They should know what you are capable of and help you to overcome any anxiety you may have. If you only want to train then that is fine. DISCIPLINE Because of the content of Taekwon Do training the instructor has to ensure it is taught in a safe environment where no one is going to get hurt. Therefore Taekwon Do training should be very strict to ensure students safety. Also because the whole Taekwon Do system is built on a ‘respect hierarchy’ students are expected to listen carefully to the instructor and follow instructions. Especially younger students who are renowned for lack of discipline soon learn that if they want to continue training they have to conform to the strict Taekwon Do regime. FITNESS When starting Taekwon Do training no one should worry about their fitness levels. The instructor will recognise that every person has a different fitness ability and will discuss it prior to training. For people who wish to start training to improve their fitness levels Taekwon Do exercise works the majority of muscles both upper and lower body and when you reach a higher level requires a certain amount of stamina. Every person as mentioned before is an individual so it is up to yourself how much energy you exert into your training. FLEXIBILITY Again when first starting training try not to worry about lack of flexibility. This is like anything you do and is just practice, irrespective of age. Taekwon Do training does require a certain level of flexibility but this will come with time and your instructor will help you and tell you the stretches you should be practicing to improve your flexibility. COORDINATION The majority of people favour one side of their body when it comes to writing, throwing a ball or turning around for example. In Taekwon Do students are taught to use both sides of their body exactly the same way which improves balance and coordination. Children who struggle with coordination skills often see massive benefits in this area often within weeks of starting training. HEALTH PURPOSES Not only is Taekwon Do training excellent for your external muscles but through simple breathing exercises it also strengthens your internal organs.