The first few classes can be a bit overwhelming, as is anything new. We suggest you come in and watch a class first to get a better understanding of what’s ahead of you.
I recommend arriving 15 minutes early so that you can pay for class, sign in, and mentally prepare. When the instructor asks the class to “line up” the students will arrange themselves in even rows by rank. This might seem a little odd at first but it is a very effective way of allowing beginners to see and learn from other students as well as the instructor.
The class will then start by bowing to the flags and the instructor. Bowing is a form of etiquette and respect and is also a way to say ‘thank you’. Next we will do stretching and warm ups to prevent injuries and enhance physical performance.
The main part of class is made up of practicing specific techniques. We practice kicks (lots of kicks), followed by hand techniques/blocking and striking. (Did you know Taekwon-Do emphasizes kicks more than any other martial art?) Each technique will be explained and demonstrated before practice, and advice and encouragement are in constant supply. We will practice these techniques in the air, with paddles, on shields, and sometimes through boards. We may also have races, competitions, and fun games that build other valuable skills like balance and speed.
We will always work on forms. Forms are a set of choreographed martial art moves. As you progress through your training your forms will become more challenging. Practiced correctly, forms allow the student to express the beautiful and dynamic side of Taekwon-Do, while at the same time developing coordination, timing, balance, and concentration.
Self-defense and non-contact sparring is also sometimes covered. In a typical self defense drill you may learn how to get out of a grab or learn to block and counter a punch. At first you may find it hard to block a slow punch, but with repeated practice you will soon be able to block and counter without any thought.
