Beginners Info

Taekwon-Do is the art of unarmed combat for the purpose of self-defence. It was, founded by a Korean General Choi Hong Hi, 9th Degree in April 1955 after exhaustive research and development.

Taekwon-Do's training methods are scientific in its approach; teaching the body to gain the ultimate use of its faculties through intensive physical and mental training. It is a martial art that has no equal in either power of technique.

Translated from the Korean, 'Tae' literally means, jumping or flying to kick or smash with the foot, 'Kwon' to punch or destroy with the hand or fist and 'Do' means art or way.

Taekwon-Do teaches the techniques of unarmed combat for self-defence, involving the skilled application of punches, kicks, blocks dodges and interception with the hands, arms and feet to the rapid destruction of the opponent. Therefore self-discipline must always be stressed to prevent the student from misusing the art. This mental training takes the form of five tenets, which are an integral part of practising this popular martial art. More often then not the student finds that the tenets not only serve as a guide during his/her training but throughout his/her daily life.

- Improves your physical health and stamina
- Increases fitness level
- Learn effective self-defence techniques
- Improves reflexes, co-ordination and balance
- Teaches self discipline
- Strengthens and tones muscles
- Promotes courtesy and respect
- Increases flexibility, suppleness and range of movement
- Improves concentration and peripheral vision
- Builds self confidence

The Beginner Class is designed to give the student a chance to experience first hand what it is like to practise a martial art.

The Beginner Class will include:
- Learning the fundamental movements of blocking and attacking techniques
- Practising the basic kicking techniques
- Developing stamina and co-ordination
- Learning simple but effective self defence techniques
- Stretching exercises that will improve flexibility and mobility
- Aerobic and conditioning routines that are required for the practice of Tae Kwon-Do

What you need to know:
- You should wear loose, comfortable clothes to class (tracksuit, shorts, t-shirt etc.)
- Tae Kwon-Do is practised in bare feet, shoes are only to be worn to or from the Dojang (Training hall)
- Make sure you take off all jewellery including watches before training
- It's a good idea to bring along a bottle of water and a hand towel
- Remember that everyone in the class is a beginner; no-one is much better, or worse, than anyone else