Turn Your Child into a Champion With the Five Tenets of Taekwondo

Do you want your child to succeed academically, build strong friendships with their peers, and develop a strong sense of integrity in everything they do? From toddler’s taekwondo to Taekwondo children’s classes, this guide will kick start your child’s success as they work their way up to black belt status! Learn about the five tenets of Taekwondo, which will deliver immediate benefits to your child, from their very first class to adulthood.  

A Katy Martial Arts Program That Promotes Discipline, Respect and Honor  

Your martial arts child will begin with a white belt, and will immediately integrate the five tenets of Taekwondo: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.  The expectation of all martial arts students is they remain courteous to everyone, inside and outside of their martial arts program. During class, they will build instant friendships and have fun learning proper martial arts techniques, including: front stance, down block, kicks and a side-kick breaking technique. They’re ninjas-in-training from day one!

A Martial Arts Katy Program Focusing on Growth, Confidence and Fun

After they test out of the white belt, they will work hard and have fun demonstrating those techniques learned in yellow belt (when kids get to start sparring!), as well as the belts that follow. As they learn how to execute high blocks, axe kicks, jump-back kicks, advanced blocks (and much more!), they will continue to uphold the five tenets of Taekwondo..

Each Katy Taekwondo children’s class at Vortexic will implement these tenets, so as your child is increasing in physical strength, this program also creates a blueprint for how they will overcome challenges, communicate with their peers, and execute goals in every facet of their life.  Additionally, the five tenets of Taekwondo allow your student at Vortexic to:

• Stand up to bullying, as well as stick up for others;
• Have conviction for things they believe in, and act according to those convictions;
• Have self-control over their thoughts and their actions;
• Develop strong, lasting friendships;
• Maintain honesty and stand up for what’s ethically right (on behalf of themselves and others!)
• Build a community with like-minded, positive peers;
• And much more!

A Katy Martial Arts Program That Turns Children Into Champions

At Vortexic, we turn children into champions. Our Katy martial arts students pride themselves on form, technique and strength—along with our three principles: discipline, honor and respect. Whether you enroll in children’s martial arts classes in Katy, or competitive martial arts classes, you’re not just keeping your child engaged in a fun and disciplined-focused program—you’re also giving them the ability to be who they truly are: confident, strong and courageous.  

source https://vortexic.com/turn-your-child-into-a-champion-with-the-five-tenets-of-taekwondo/

Sparring Gear Required For Taekwondo

Sparring in Tae Kwon Do requires the proper protective gear. It’s recommended that all students wanting to spar, purchase the following equipment.

 

A Hogue (Chest Protector)

For those wanting to compete, your chest protection must include shoulder padding. Generally, chest protectors are secured with either ties or velcro in the back. This allows them to be adjusted for size. You want the protector to fit securely without slipping.

 

Shin Guards

To size shin guards, you need to consider the height of the person wearing them. The guards are designed to protect the front of your legs. However, do not get them too long. You do not want them to impede your ability to bend at the ankle or the knee. Proper Tae Kwon Do etiquette is to put the guards on under your uniform.

 

Foot Guards

 

Padding for your feet comes separately or in combination with the shin guards. Foot pads are not required but after one kick to an elbow, you will appreciate their worth. Only the top of the foot is covered so that you don’t slip during sparring.

 

Arm Protectors

 

Like the shin protectors, the arm pads are worn under your uniform. They cover the lower, outside portion of the forearm. This prevents bruising or worse injury when blocking. Make sure the pads fit securely and are the proper length. They should not touch either the wrist or the elbow.

 

Hand Protectors

 

For some competitions, hand gear is mandatory, however inside the dojang it is optional. If you plan to compete, check the individual competition rules to see if you need hand protectors.

 

A Head Protector

 

This is probably the most important piece of Tae Kwon Do sparring gear. Your head gear should fit securely and be fastened with a chin strap. They come in multiple colors and sizes. Find the size that feels the most comfortable and covers the entire back of the head without moving around.

 

Groin Protection

 

One might argue that the groin guard is just as important as the head gear. It certainly prevents a number of painful injuries during sparring. Like the arm and shin gear, the groin protection is worn under your uniform. There is a cup design for men and a flatter design for women (yes, women need it too). A woman’s guard sits on the hips, so take that into account when choosing your size.

 

Mouth Guards

 

A guard that sits over teeth is required for all Tae Kwon Do sparring. Most mouth guards are made of a material that molds to an individual’s mouth. They fit right over braces. As a child’s mouth changes (e.g. new teeth grown in) a new mouth guard must be purchased. If the mouth guard feels too large, trim the back edges with a sharp knife.

 

Having the proper gear prevents unnecessary injury during sparring. You can get what you need at Vortexic, or you can find it at your local sporting goods store. If you come to us, we can help you find the exact fit you need. Let us outfit you for your next sparring tournament.

 

 

 

 

 

source https://vortexic.com/sparring-gear-required-for-taekwondo/

Tips for Practicing Tae Kwon Do at Home

Class is over and you stand, bathed in buckets of sweat, with a hot shower and a comfortable couch on your mind.   Most of your classes include the same basic elements:  stretching, warming up, solo drills, pad and partner drills, forms and some sparring.  You know that regular attendance is required for advancement and you never miss a class, if you can help it.  Good for you. However, what are you doing between classes?

The truth of the matter is that perfection requires thousands of repetitions and you will never reach that level if you limit yourself to practicing only when the training hall is open.  In order to progress and meet your individual potential, you must train at home.  

Tips

In case you aren’t sure what you should be working on at home, we’ve put together some tips and best practices to help you get started.

# 1 – Work on Your Flexibility

Stretch in your spare time.  Flexibility is a must and stretching once or twice a week isn’t going to cut it.  Flexibility needs to be worked on a daily basis.  Fortunately, stretching can be done just about anywhere.  Pitch those legs out to the side, while watching your favorite television show.  Stretch those shoulders while sitting at your desk at work.  You get the idea.  The point is that you remain mindful of your flexibility every day.

#2 – Invest in Some Home Equipment

While not a requirement, it is helpful to keep a stash of gear in your home.  A heavy bag (free-standing or hanging) is a great target for your kicks and punches.  Don’t despair, if you don’t have the room for a bag, you can practice your kicks and punches in the air; however, be mindful that contact is an important element in strike development.  Failing a heavy bag, you can also have a friend or family member hold a pair of kick paddles or a shield for you.

 

#3 – Practice Your Tae Kwon Do Forms

As long as you have the space, you can always practice your forms.  Forms are an integral part of your training and develop the muscle memory required to execute techniques and transitions.  If you don’t have room in your home, get some space in the garage, driveway, or yard.  Practice your forms slowly and make sure you are doing it with power and proper technique.   Slow training is important as it helps build proper technique and fluidity.  There is something to the adage:  slow is smooth and smooth is fast. While it is very important to practice your current form, we encourage your to practice all of your lower rank forms.

 

#4 – Explain the Techniques to a Family Member

Find a partner.  One of the best ways to learn is to teach.  Find a family member or friend that might be interested in what you are learning.  Demonstrate and explain the techniques you are practicing.  You will find that you gain a deeper understanding of a technique when you explain it to someone else and you may gain a new student for your school.

Taekwondo is a passion and a lifelong activity for many.  Meaningful progress is earned through a dedicated pursuit of perfection.  Perfection occurs through repetition and a burning desire to learn.  If you want to be your best, you will need to find time outside of the training hall to focus on honing your skills.

If you like this blog make sure you check out some of our other info packed blogs!
7 Stretches to Increase Your Flexability

What Does a Black Belt in Taekwondo Signify

Preparing for Your First Taekwondo Tournament

 

source https://vortexic.com/tips-for-practicing-tae-kwon-do-at-home/

7 Stretches to Increase Your Flexibility

If you practice Tae Kwon Do for awhile, you start to realize that you can’t progress very fast if you just practice once a week at the dojang. It’s important that you spend time on your techniques at home, and that you work on increasing your flexibility. Ideally, you should take about 30 min a day to run through these seven stretches. If you do, you should find that your techniques become more fluid and you stand less chance of injuring yourself.

 

Quad/Calf Stretch

 

This stretch is just that old-fashioned leg stretch your teacher had you do a million times during gym class. Sit on the floor with your right leg out and left leg tucked. Keep your knee flat and reach for your toes with both hands. Hold the stretch and breathe. Relax and repeat.

 

Switch legs. Extend your left leg and tuck your right. Keep the knee flat and reach for your toes with both hands. Hold and breathe. Wait a few seconds and repeat.

 

Do each side twice.

 

Spread both legs to the side so that they form a “v” in front of you. Reach forward to the middle, while keeping your knees flat to the ground. Hold and breathe. Relax and repeat twice.

 

2.  Hip Flexor/Quad Stretch/Hamstrings

 

Kneel on your shins. Raise your right knee so that you look like you are getting ready to propose. Place both hands on your right knee and lean forward, keeping your back as upright as possible.

 

Feel the stretch in your hips and quadricep. Hold for at least 30 seconds and then relax.

 

Repeat two or three times and then switch legs. Do the same for the other side.

 

3. Inner Thighs/Hips

 

Most of you have probably seen the butterfly stretch before. Sit on the floor and bring both feet as close to your groin as possible while pointing your knees to the sides (butterfly wings). Press down gently on your knees. Hold down for about 30 seconds. Try to relax your legs as much as possible during the stretch.

 

For some this stretch is next to impossible, while others find it way too easy. If you fall in the latter category, take the stretch to the next level. As you press down on your knees, lay forward with your back as straight as possible. The goal is to lay flat on the floor with your knees touching the floor as well.

 

4. Back, Abdominals, and Obliques

 

Sit upright with your legs together and straight in front of you. Reach both arms around to the right and twist your ribcage, keeping your legs flat. Hold for 30 seconds.

 

Return to the middle and relax. Then, do the same for the left side. Try to keep your abdominals engaged during the entire stretch and focus on breathing evenly in and out.

 

5. Lower Back, Abdominals

 

Many of you may know this as the “cobra stretch.”

 

Lie on your stomach and prop yourself up on your elbows. Keeping your eyes forward, slowly raise yourself off your elbows and onto your hands. Arch your back as far as comfortable while supporting your weight.  Hold for 15 seconds and then relax. Repeat this stretch two times.

 

For those wanting an even more intense stretch, bend your knees and try to touch the back your head with your toes.

 

6.  Shoulders/Upper Back

 

Even though most flexibility stretches in Tae Kwon Do focus on the legs and hips, it’s also important to stretch your shoulders and arms.

 

Raise your left arm up and point your fingers at the ceiling. Let your lower arm (the part below the elbow) fall behind your head while keeping your elbow pointed up. Grab your left hand with your right and gently pull. Try to relax your muscles as you pull. You should also make a concentrated effort to keep your head from falling forward. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds and then relax.

 

Repeat on the other side.

 

7.  Neck

 

At this point, you have stretched your entire body up to the neck. Stress, can cause quite a bit of tension in both your neck and shoulders. Take time to gently rotate your head 360 degrees and tilt it in all directions. Make sure your neck muscles do not feel tight. If they do, hold your head in such a way as to gently pull on the tight muscles. Do this until you feel relaxed.

 

At first, these exercises might seem difficult, especially if it’s been awhile since you last stretched. The key to flexibility is consistent stretching. Each day, go a bit further, or hold it a while longer. Always stretch slowly and never take it to the point of pain. It should feel challenging, but if it hurts, you need to ease up or you could do damage to your muscles. Each time you stretch, you should be able to go just a bit further.

 

Keep stretching soon you will be throwing roundhouse kicks to the head like a pro.

 

If you like this blog check out these as well

Preparing for Your First Taekwondo Tournement

5 Tenetes Of Taekwondo

source https://vortexic.com/7-stretches-to-increase-your-flexibility/

The 5 Tenets of Tae Kwon Do

When you train in Tae Kwon Do, it’s not just a physical sport. We strive to develop character traits along with self-defense skills. The two work hand in hand to mold the student into a confident and mature individual. In Tae Kwon Do there are five tenets that serve as the core values taught to students. Each one of these traits is every bit as important as the physical skills we teach.

 

Courtesy 여의

What is courtesy? When you act with both respect and kindness, you are being courteous. We teach respect for authority, and respect for others. The student is encouraged to reach out to others in kindness, helping those less able than themselves. We expect them to be courteous to both, to those in the dojang as well as people they meet outside the school. An often overlooked part of this tenet is good manners.

Integrity 염치

Most people would define integrity as “honesty.” While that is correct, integrity actually goes one step further. We want our students to know the difference between right and wrong AND to stand up for what is correct. Having strong moral principles takes courage. Tae Kwon Do wants the student to be strong in the face of physical danger and moral injustice. Courage and honesty are character traits that every student should strive for.

Perseverance 인냬

Don’t give up! In the face of adversity, we want our students to persevere. Things in life are not always easy and we want our students to know how to be “winners.” Simply put, Tae Kwon Do students are taught to struggle against all odds to reach a goal. Whether in the dojang, at school, or in their private lives, perseverance is necessary for success.

Self Control  극기

Uncontrolled anger has no place in Tae Kwon Do. Like all the others, this tenet of Tae Kwon Do applies to both the dojang and to life. It’s important to have control over both your thoughts as well as your actions. Learning to keep your emotions in check means you won’t do things you regret. You have a better opportunity to reach others and build relationships. As for self-defense, not getting angry means you might have a chance to defuse a situation before it escalates into a physical confrontation.

Indomitable Spirit 백절불굴

Indomitable Spirit is directly related to perseverance and all the other tenets of Tae Kwon Do. It is the net result of applying all the tenets in your life. If you are courteous, honest, hard-working, and under control, you become a person with indomitable spirit. Having the courage to stand up for your beliefs and stay strong against any opposition is a result of strong character. Combining physical skills with strong character traits turns a student into masters.

The 5 Tenets of Taekwondo are meant as a guide for students in both the dojang and outside the school. Tae Kwon Do is not just about developing physical skills, but also about strengthening the whole person. Becoming a strong person in every way.

Call us and schedule your free introductory class. Start training today.

While your here, make sure you check out some of our other blogs as well!

Benefits Tae Kwon Do gives your Kids In School

source https://vortexic.com/the-5-tenets-of-tae-kwon-do/

Preparing for Your First Tae Kwon Do Tournament

A Tae Kwon Do competition gives students from different dojangs the opportunity to come together and hone their skills. As a competitor you can learn new points of technique just from watching the other participants. You find that the sparring matches help you improve your form and response time. However, you need a bit of preparation for your first Tae Kwon Do if you hope to win – and there is nothing wrong with wanting to win. Having a specific goal to work toward to brings focus to your training.

Generally, a tournament can include different division from sparring matches, forms competitions, weapons and breaking. You can compete in any of the categories that interest you. During the tournament you will be competing with other students around your age and belt rank.

 

Know the Rules

Each tournament is a bit different, depending on who is hosting. All division have judges and some can have referees to make sure everything goes accordingly. However, rules for scoring points follow certain guidelines:

For Sparring

• You get awarded one point for a basic attack to your opponent’s chest protector (i.e. side kick).
• You get two points for a kick to your opponent’s head or if the kick involves a spinning or jumping technique (including a jump back kick, spin hook kick).
• Point scoring can vary per tournament*
• While looking at the score board is tempting, try not to look at it. Focus on your fight!

For the rest of the divisions, students will be judges upon performance & technique

Certain types of gear are required for sparring competitors:

• Chest Protector
• Arm Guard
• Groin Guard
• Shin & Instep Guards
• Helmet
• Mouth-Guard

Be Prepared to Wait

Unfortunately, a Tae Kwon Do tournament involves a lot of waiting. Even though some tournaments conduct several sparring matches simultaneously, there are still a lot of them to get through. If you win a match early in the day, it may be a while before the next round takes place. This gives you an opportunity to watch the other fighters, or compete in one of the other divisions.

 

Training for Your First Tae Kwon Do Tournament

• The number one thing you can do to prepare for a tournament is PRACTICE.
• The second most important thing you can do is PRACTICE.
• And when you’ve done those two things – you should PRACTICE.
• Don’t wait too long to register for your first tournament, the earlier you start the more experience you gain and the better you will become.

Ask your instructor for help with your technique. Make sure you practice sparring with fellow students so you can learn to look for openings. One thing that most people don’t prepare for, is learning how to take a punch to the chest or a kick to the head. There is a good chance, you will get hit during a sparring match. The gear keeps injuries to a minimum, but a good punch can still take you by surprise. Sparring practice lets you learn how that feels so it doesn’t throw you off your rhythm.

 

Practical Considerations

• Make sure you label your gear. Everyone at the tournament owns similar pads and bags. It is easy to lose your gear or pick up the wrong bag.
• Make sure your uniform is clean and pressed. This is especially important if you are competing in forms.
• Bring a snack and plenty of water to drink. A Tae Kwon Do tournament is a lot of work and you will probably be there for quite a while. It’s important to stay hydrated. (please no sugary drinks or candy)

Win or Lose – Everyone Leaves a Winner

You may or may not leave the Tae Kwon Do tournament with a ribbon or trophy. If you do receive one,  then “Congratulations!” You have a right to be proud.

However, keep in mind that more people actually lose than win at a Tae Kwon Do tournament. The important thing is to ask yourself these questions:

• Did I do my best?
• How did my sparring compare to my practice sessions?
• What do I need to do to improve for next time?
• Did I have fun?

There is no need to be disappointed if you lose. The experience is invaluable – and you tried something new. Competing in your first Tae Kwon Do tournament becomes a personal victory.

If you have an interest in tournament competition, tell one of the instructors at Vortexic. We can give you information on scheduled tournaments and help you develop a training plan for your first Tae Kwon Do tournament.

Stay tuned to our Facebook Page for Upcomming Tournaments

source https://vortexic.com/preparing-for-your-first-tae-kwon-do-tournament/