As one of the most powerful forces of self-defense, Taekwondo is not only for martial arts enthusiasts or an after-school activity for kids. It doubles as a powerful training tool for mindfulness, self-discipline, and let’s face it, a fun workout.
The lowdown on Taekwondo
Tae Kwon Do is a traditional Korean martial art that involves a series of distinctive kicks and punches. It’s a serious physical and mental workout everyone can benefit from. The art form has long been a tradition of ethics, discipline, and mindfulness. The distinctive kicking and punching techniques are what distinguishes it from other martial arts, such as Karate or Kung Fu.
The powerful moves are combined with breath work. Training includes a system of blocks, kicks, punches, open-handed strikes, as well as various take-downs or sweeps, throws, and joint locks.
Why Taekwondo?
Aside from being a great way to work some leg power and learn self-defence, Taekwondo is also recognized for its breathing method. Much like in yoga, it involves breath control and mindfulness with every move.
With busy schedules and constant distractions, we tend to overlook the importance of setting some time aside to clear thoughts and hit the reset button. Taekwondo, like any form of meditation or mindfulness technique, is a great way to be present and open up to a new set of skills. It helps improve coordination, enhance body awareness and can increase flexibility and cardiovascular fitness.
Where to learn
If you’re keen to master the art of mindfulness and have a go at a killer kick-punch combo, there are plenty of places that offer classes.
Steven Cheah is an 8th Dan Grand Master of Taekwondo (and also Bianca Cheah’s dad – we see where she gets her kick-a** boxing skills from!). Having been the first to introduce the art form into the country, he now shares his wisdom and expertise in schools up and down the east coast of Australia.
Cheah Integrated Martial Arts Academy has various locations along the coast and offers a wide range of training for beginners and more advanced. Head on over to their website to know more about Tae Kwon Do methods and how to’s.
