Taekwondo is a martial art that prioritizes defeating opponents with powerful kicks and agility. This martial art style was developed in Korea during the 1960s and 1970s, and is a fusion of Okinawa karate, Chinese martial arts and other Korean traditions.
This martial art form gained international recognition 2000 Summer Olympics, when it became a full metal sport.
Despite its accolades, taekwondo offers practitioners much more than self-defence skills. There are several ways, both physical and mental, in which taekwondo can improve your life.
Physical Health Benefits
Taekwondo is, no doubt, a great workout. Body conditioning and improvement play an integral part of the training. It gives you all the benefits of a hard workout, but in a safe and fun environment.
Cardio Workout
If you hate jogging and don’t have the patience for a morning walk, then Taekwondo is perfect for you. It engages all your muscle groups, making it a killer cardio workout. With just 30 minutes of training, your heart will be racing to pump blood throughout your body, improving your circulation.
Increased Flexibility
To be a successful student of taekwondo, you need good flexibility. During training, instructors start by making sure you stretch. A lot of time is spent stretching to improve your reach, decrease the chance of injury, and enhance your body’s well-being.
Weight Loss
Heart rate increases, muscle groups are activated, blood circulation improves, so what happens next? You burn calories and lose weight. Be regular with your training and you’ll steadily lose unwanted pounds. Your body will look and feel toned in no time at all!
Mental Health Benefits
Practicing taekwondo doesn’t only fortify your body. The martial art also benefits your mental health as well.
Improved Focus
Training in Taekwondo teaches you a lot about concentration and controlling your emotions. It requires you to stay focussed even when you are under stress.
Better Cognitive Functioning
Any kind of physical activity improves cognitive functioning, or mind-body link. Memory is also improved. These benefits transfer to other areas of life, such as studies.
Heightened Self-Confidence
With greater mental strength and physical fitness, taekwondo makes you more self-confident and assured.
Don’t expect your body and mind to improve overnight. Just like becoming better at taekwondo, it will take time. Consistent practice and dedication is what’s needed. The most important thing is that you follow the guidance of your instructor.