New Students
What is Taekwondo?
Although it did not assume its current name until the mid 1950’s, Taekwondo has been practiced in Korea under the names of “Subak” and “Taekkyon” for over a millennia.
Translated as foot-fist-way, it is an empty hand (unarmed) martial art which teaches the use of hands, fists, elbows, knees and feet to overcome opponents. It is most well known for the power of its wide array of kicking techniques.
Taekwondo is also contested as a sport at the Summer Olympics. Our club enters many tournaments, and for students interested in competing competition exists for all experience levels.
Why do Taekwondo?
Fitness
Taekwondo is a great way to get fit. Every 90 minute class provides an intense cardio workout and tones the legs, upper body & abdominal muscles. In addition, training greatly improves leg flexibility as stretching is an important part of Taekwondo training - you will be able to perform high section (head level) kicks in no time! To clear up a common misconception you do not have to be super fit to start Taekwondo; fitness is a result of training, not a requirement to start it. Some people also think that Taekwondo is an activity mainly for guys - our club has a relatively even gender split, reflecting the fact that Taekwondo is suitable for both male & female students.
Self-Defence
Students who practice Taekwondo are well equipped with self-defence skills. One-step sparring and self-defence training (including techniques taught in the Korean army) provide students with more dangerous techniques not used in competition, and competition sparring training develops fast footwork, quick reflexes and powerful strikes. It also teaches students to think clearly and confidently whilst being attacked so that they can respond effectively.
Tournaments
Tournaments provide an excellent opportunity to measure your progress. Our main focus is the Australian University Games (AUG’s) held in the break of semester 2 each year. Our team placed 4th of over 20 teams in 2005, a great result we seek to improve in the Adelaide 2006 AUG’s Other tournaments we enter include the Eastern University Championships, Regional & International Chung Do Kwan competitions in addition to the NSW state tournaments. Everybody can compete in Taekwondo tournaments as all tournaments are split into many weight and four belt divisions (obviously men & women are split) so that competitors are of relatively equal size and skill. They are full contact so protective gear is worn in tournaments and in sparring training. But don’t worry, tournaments are optional and training is always conducted in a very safe and controlled environment.
