More Than Kicks and Punches: 5 Life Skills Children Learn Through Tae Kwon Do

When people first think about Tae Kwon Do, it's usually the physical side that comes to mind.
Kicks. Punches. Blocks. Patterns.
And while learning martial arts techniques is certainly an important part of training, there's much more happening in a Tae Kwon Do class.
Children are also learning skills and values that can be useful away from the training hall – at school, at home and as they grow up.
Here are five of the most important.

1. Courtesy and Respect
Courtesy is one of the fundamental principles of Tae Kwon Do.
From their first lessons, students learn that showing respect is part of their training.
They learn to listen when their instructor is speaking, treat other students appropriately and follow the traditions and etiquette of the martial art.
But respect isn't simply about doing what you're told.
It's also about understanding that the people around you deserve consideration.
Those habits can extend well beyond the Tae Kwon Do class.

2. Perseverance
Learning Tae Kwon Do isn't always easy.
A new technique might feel awkward.
A pattern might be difficult to remember.
A kick may take many attempts before it begins to feel right.
That's where perseverance becomes important.
Students learn that struggling with something doesn't mean they can't do it. Sometimes it simply means they haven't mastered it yet.
They practise.
They make mistakes.
They try again.
And gradually, something that once seemed difficult starts becoming achievable.
Learning to keep going when something isn't immediately easy is a valuable skill for any child.

3. Self-Control
Tae Kwon Do teaches children powerful physical techniques, which makes self-control especially important.
Students learn that martial arts aren't about showing off, losing their temper or using what they've learned irresponsibly.
They are expected to listen, control their movements and behave appropriately towards their training partners.
Developing that ability to stop, listen and think before acting can be valuable in many other areas of children's lives.

4. Focus and Concentration
There's a lot to think about when learning Tae Kwon Do.
Where should your feet be?
What should your hands be doing?
Which direction do you move next?
What did the instructor just demonstrate?
Children need to watch, listen and concentrate.
As they progress, techniques and patterns become increasingly detailed, giving students new challenges to work towards.
Training regularly provides another opportunity for children to practise focusing their attention on the task in front of them.

5. Setting Goals and Working Towards Them
Tae Kwon Do gives children something very tangible to work towards.
Their next belt.
But nobody simply arrives at class and receives one.
Students learn techniques, practise them, improve and gradually prepare for the next stage of their training.
That process introduces an important idea:
Big achievements are usually reached through lots of smaller steps.
Whether the eventual goal is earning the next coloured belt or, one day, reaching black belt, progress comes from continuing to learn and putting in the effort along the way.
The Tenets of Tae Kwon DoMany of these lessons are reflected in the five tenets of Tae Kwon Do:
Courtesy
Integrity
Perseverance
Self-Control
Indomitable Spirit
They're not simply words to remember.
They represent values that students are encouraged to understand and demonstrate through their training.
More Than a Weekly ActivityParents understandably want their children to be active, and Tae Kwon Do certainly provides plenty of physical exercise.
But that's only one part of it.
A good Tae Kwon Do class gives children opportunities to challenge themselves, learn discipline, interact with others, work towards goals and experience the satisfaction that comes from improving at something through practice.
Those are skills that can stay useful long after the lesson has finished.
Would Your Child Like to Try Tae Kwon Do?If you're looking for an activity that combines fitness, martial arts skills and personal development, your child is welcome to come and experience Tae Kwon Do for themselves.
We offer children's Tae Kwon Do classes in Whitchurch, Malpas and Oswestry, welcoming complete beginners as well as students who want to progress through the TAGB grading system.
Your child can start with a FREE taster class, giving them the opportunity to meet us, join in and see whether Tae Kwon Do is something they'd enjoy.
Book your child's FREE Tae Kwon Do taster class today.
www.tagb-taekwondo.co.uk