Benefits Of Taekwondo For Children

Contrary to popular belief, this sport is not violent, or encourages aggression. It does not even require much strength to practice.

Like other sports,  this Korean martial art develops the physical properties of the body. 

Taekwondo is also a very technical discipline that helps children learn how to control their body. It contributes to complete training, as well as provides social and psychological value.

What is taekwondo?

Taekwondo is a thousand-year-old martial art that originated in Korea. It involves a variety of techniques involving both hands, feet, elbows, fists and even knees. It also involves self-defense.

In addition to the physical and technical level,  taekwondo represents a whole philosophy, based on five principles:  courtesy, integrity, endurance, self-control and an untamed soul.

It is one of the most well known and most widespread forms of martial arts. It is estimated that more than 30 million people practice taekwondo in more than 144 countries.

Taekwondo has also become an Olympic sport. It began as a show gate in Seoul in 1998.  The first Olympic Games were held in the year 2000 at the Sydney Games. 

Equipment to use when practicing taekwondo

To practice this sport, a Dobok – a taekwondo suit – is required. It is a practical set consisting of trousers and a jacket  – similar to a kimono in other types of martial arts. It is also essential to wear a Ti, a belt that indicates the degree or level of the practitioner.

In combat,  it is necessary to wear gloves made of polypropylene and protective shoes. It is, as a rule, also required to use protectors, especially for the mouth and tongue.

Furthermore, depending on the level of the practitioners, one can use helmet, protective chest plates, shin guards and forearm protectors.

The benefits of taekwondo

This sport can become a way of life, for those who practice it. It is a way to achieve physical and mental balance. 

Taekwondo seeks realization in humans in all cases. In the case of children, it helps them go through the most complicated stages,  achieving important, personal values, and healthy habits for life.

Physical benefits

• Improves  muscle strength,  as well as fitness endurance.
• Increases  elasticity, agility and flexibility. 
• Helps develop coordination and balance skills  .
• Contributes with  control and knowledge about the body. Since it is achieved through basic movements, but at a high, technical level, it will prepare them for future activities of greater difficulty.

Psychological and social benefits

Taekwondo also helps modify children’s character. Those, with a high energy level, become more aware of their body and surroundings.

Even the most shy and introverted children will increase their self-confidence, self-esteem and initiative.

• It promotes concentration and discipline. 
• By mastering their own body, they  will achieve self-esteem and confidence. Furthermore, they will learn how to interact with their surroundings more effectively.
• Important values, such as  honesty, loyalty, camaraderie, cooperation, respect and humility,  are promoted throughout.
• It is an opportunity to promote  cultural learning. Through taekwondo, prayer can access knowledge about costumes, traditions and ways of thinking that is different from their own. It also teaches them about tolerance and solidarity.

Some advice on taekwondo

Although this discipline has its origins in combat, it is not an aggressive sport. The basic training of taekwondo is self-defense, not antagonism.

Furthermore, this sport seeks to bring peace and tolerance to those who practice it, among other benefits. It is an ideal help to channel the inexhaustible energy in children,  especially if they have disorders such as ADHD.

The ideal age to start practicing this sport is around 4 years. It is better to start at an early age, because although taekwondo has amazing benefits, it is very technical and “slow”.

Changes do not happen overnight, and it takes a lot of effort, perseverance and discipline to master the basics and improve.

Therefore, the  presence and help of parents is fundamental. They will need to remind their children of their values, responsibilities and tasks. They should encourage them when they think they have no progress, and most importantly, support them.

The most important thing is that the child is happy with what he or she is doing and the environment in which he or she finds himself or herself. In addition, it is important that the child puts all his or her enthusiasm and effort into all the training.