Frequently Asked Questions

What is Taekwondo?

Taekwondo is a Korean form of martial arts that means, literally, foot (tae), hand (kwon) and art or way (do). Sparring taekwondo style typically involves about 70% kicking and 30% hands. Taekwondo America students learn patterns of moves called forms (also called hyungs and katas), spar with approved protective gear and break boards. To learn more, visit our Curriculum page.

Who can do taekwondo?

Just about anyone can participate in taekwondo – children, teenagers and adults. You don’t need to get in shape first or have a background in martial arts to start. It’s a good idea to talk with your doctor before starting any new exercise or workout program, including a martial arts workout.

Will participating in taekwondo teach children to be violent?

We typically find the opposite to be true, for a number of reasons. Our goals for Taekwondo America students include:

  • Improving self-discipline to help them make better choices to try to avoid conflict
  • Developing the self-control to resolve problems as peacefully as possible
  • Increasing their self-confidence
  • Understanding and living the values of the Tenets of Taekwondo and the Student Oath

 

Are there any other benefits to becoming a taekwondo student?

Taekwondo can help students academically by teaching them to be focused and more self-disciplined, as well as helping them develop the positive character traits to become strong leaders. For adults, teens and children, regular taekwondo workouts can also help with:

  • aerobic/cardio & strength training
  • weight control
  • mild depression
  • difficulty sleeping
  • type 2 diabetes
  • high blood pressure
  • osteoporosis

How old does a child need to be to start Taekwondo?

It depends on the child and the programs offered by your Taekwondo America school. While all Taekwondo America schools have programs for children, teens and adults, some schools may offer Little Ninjas or Little Dragons programs for preschool children.

However, just because a child has reached the age at which a Taekwondo America school allows students to try class doesn’t mean that a child is ready to start martial arts training. Many five-year-olds demonstrate the maturity to pay attention during a 45-minute class and follow instructions well. On the other hand, some children who are much older behave in such a way that shows they do not have the same maturity. It has less to do with physical ability and age than it does with willingness to try hard and be respectful. That's why we encourage everyone to try a complimentary class first. We expect all students to:

  • treat all instructors and other students with respect and courtesy

  • be able to focus and follow instructions

  • treat the school and equipment with respect

  • obey safety rules

  • handle bathroom needs without instructor assistance

  • try hard and participate in all class activities with enthusiasm

Am I too old to try taekwondo?

We recommend that you talk to your doctor any time you are considering starting a new workout program. Your general health and your fitness goals may be more important than age alone in deciding if a martial arts workout program is right for you. However, you do not need to “get in shape first” or have a background in martial arts to start taekwondo. The Taekwondo America program is designed to help you gradually increase your fitness level and martial arts skills, whether you already work out at a health club regularly or never quite found the time to start exercising. While most students in the teen/adult program are in their teens, 20’s and 30’s, our program does have adult students who started taekwondo in their 40’s and 50’s and who have increased their flexibility, fitness level and ability to defend themselves.

How many times a week should Taekwondo America students participate in class?

We recommend 2-3 classes a week consistently for the best results. And most Taekwondo America schools offer flexible class schedules to accommodate today’s busy families.

How much does it cost?

Just like the difference in the cost of homes or in salaries in different parts of the country, the fees charged by Taekwondo America schools may differ. Some of the types of expenses you can expect as a student at a Taekwondo America school include:

  • A monthly membership fee
  • Testing fees
  • The cost to purchase sparring gear
  • To purchase replacement uniforms or gear

Optional expenses may include:

  • Tournament entry fees
  • Taekwondo America t-shirts
  • Special interest seminars
  • Black Belt camp
  • Other Taekwondo America sponsored events
  • Merchandise such as a student handbook, TA forms DVD, targets, etc.

How does a student get from a white belt to a black belt?

Taekwondo America schools hold a formal testing every two months (typically in the even numbered months) to determine if each student has learned the skills in class that are expected of a student of their rank. If they perform successfully and pass testing, they will be awarded the next belt up in rank.

What is testing?

Testing is a process where the chief instructors evaluate the skills of the student to determine whether they are ready to progress to the next level of training. What is required to pass testing increases as a student increases in rank. Students who are black belts are expected to perform with greater precision and power than beginning level students.

How long does it take to become a Black Belt?

It is mathematically possible to become a Black Belt in two years. However, it often takes longer to attain that rank. But remember, Black Belt is just the beginning, not the end of the martial arts journey ­– there are more levels of Black Belt than there are of color belts. A Black Belt indicates that the martial artist has now become a dedicated student of taekwondo, ready to begin serious training.

There are several martial arts school in our area, how do I find the one that’s right for me or my child?

It’s best to try at least one class before making any decision. For additional information about what to look for, check out our “A Parent’s Guide to Selecting a Martial Arts School” page. You can also visit our School Locator to help you find the Taekwondo America school closest to you.