Daily Archives: July 24, 2011

Improve Focus Through Tae Kwon Do

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Some may believe that Tae Kwon Do is strictly a physical activity.  While there are physical aspects such as proper punching, kicking, and blocking, there are mental aspects in Tae Kwon Do.

For example, instructors stress focus in class so that kids can learn the proper techniques.  Also, Tae Kwon Do stresses strikes that are accurate.  If you observe a class, you will see the instructor using hand targets to help kids know where to kick.  As the student advances, speed and power are emphasized.  All of these skills require focus in order to perform an accurate, powerful strike.

Another example of how Tae Kwon Do can improve a child’s focus is the teaching of Tae Kwon Do Forms or Poomses.  Forms are a series of punching, kicking, and blocking movements in a set pattern.  It takes focus to memorize the forms that progressively get more difficult with each belt level.

In today’s nanosecond world, it is difficult for a child to learn focus.  Tae Kwon Do may be one way to help your child learn to focus rather than being constantly distracted by external stimuli.

Improve Hand Eye Coordination Through Tae Kwon Do

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In the North Shore, there are a ton of sports activities for your child.  One reason why you should consider Tae Kwon Do in addition to other sports activities such as baseball, basketball, or soccer is that Tae Kwon Do may improve your child’s hand eye coordination that may help your child in other sports.

How does Tae Kwon Do improve hand eye coordination?  Tae Kwon Do utilizes both hands and feet in punching, kicking, and blocking.  Tae Kwon Do helps to develop your child’s balance and flexibility.  Also, Tae kwon Do teaches the child to be aware of where and how his/her body is positioned.  This results in a greater awareness of his/her body improving hand eye coordination.

If you would like to see this in action, please consider observing one of our Tae Kwon Do classes.  You will see kids at various levels, as well as their coordination level.

Total Tae Kwon Do Cost

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If you are on Groupon or Living Social, you will see a lot of offers for Tae Kwon Do.  3 months free, 50% off the first 2 months, or 19.99 for a 2 week trial are all offers I have seen in the past.  While these offers may sound enticing, you should consider the total cost to reach your black belt.

Some questions you should ask:

  • What is the monthly cost after the trial ends?
  • How much is belt testing?
  • Are kids required to test every couple of months or is it dependent on their readiness for the next belt level?
  • Are kids required to purchase sparring gear even if they are not interested in sparring?
  • What is your policy on missed classes?

In addition to the cost, another very important criteria in choosing a Tae Kwon Do program is the quality of instruction.  Is it baby sitting or are the kids really learning the techniques and tenets of Tae Kwon do?  Is the instructor cognizant of your goals for your child?  Are kids challenged to do their best and learn?

It can take a year or even 3 years to reach the black belt.  It is a long term commitment for the instructor and student.  Discounts and promotions are nice but it is also important to choose a program that matches your goals.