Intro to Taekwondo
The way of the foot and fist
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art and an Olympic sport, known for its fast, powerful kicks and for the discipline and respect at the heart of every class.
What the name means
Tae means to kick or strike with the foot, kwon means to strike with the hand, and do means "the way." Together, Taekwondo is the way of the foot and fist: a martial art that trains the body and the character at the same time.
A Korean martial art and an Olympic sport
Taekwondo grew out of Korea's martial traditions and is now practiced in more than 200 countries. It has been an official Olympic sport since the 2000 Sydney Games, and its sparring rewards speed, precision and kicks above all.
The belt system
Every student begins as a white belt and earns each new rank by testing their technique, forms and attitude. The path leads to black belt, which is not the end of the journey but the beginning of a deeper one.
Respect in the dojang
Classes take place in the dojang, the training hall, in a uniform called a dobok. Students bow when they step on and off the mat, greet their instructors with respect and support one another. These small habits are where discipline begins.
What students practice
- Basics Gibon
- Stances, blocks, punches and kicks, repeated until they are sharp and automatic.
- Forms Poomsae
- Set sequences of movements that build precision, balance, focus and memory.
- Sparring Kyorugi
- Controlled, Olympic-style sparring in protective gear that teaches timing, distance and composure.
- Breaking Kyukpa
- Breaking boards to prove power and accuracy, and to build the confidence to commit.
- Self-defense Hosinsul
- Practical techniques for staying safe, taught with an emphasis on awareness and restraint.
Your first class is the first step
Book a trial class, meet our instructors and see what structured, purposeful training looks like.