WHAT IS TAE KWON-DO
....and what if I like what I
see?
TAE
KWON-DO literally means THE ART OF THE FOOT AND HAND. It is a Korean martial
art, which although having roots in the ancient orient, was developed to its
present form in the middle of this century. Inaugurated in 1955 by its founder
Major General Choi Hong Hi, Tae Kwon-Do was introduced into this country in
1967 by 8th Dan Master Rhee Ki Ha.
Tae
Kwon-Do incorporates many facets, including self-defence, fitness, flexibility,
discipline, confidence-building etc. One of the most attractive aspects of Tae
Kwon-Do training is that it is available to anyone; young or old, male or
female, fit or unfit, because it allows you to learn at your own pace. Many
people train in Tae Kwon-Do for fitness, others for self-defence, and many
enjoy entering the competitions. You can get as much out of it as you want.
Tae
Kwon-Do is probably best known for its spectacular kicking techniques which are
obviously heavily featured in our demonstrations, but solid basic stances,
blocks, and punches are also taught as a strong foundation to build on. The
class always starts, as with most properly run sports, with an energetic
warm-up to prevent pulls and strains, and likewise, at the end of the lesson we
warm-down to prevent excess muscle fatigue.
For your
tuition you will pay a monthly fee, in advance, which will entitle you to train
not only twice a week at this school, but as many times as you wish at the many
clubs throughout the South and West of England.
You will
need to be licensed by the TAGB and the BTC (British Tae Kwon-Do Council), this
will also insure you in case of injury during training. This is an annual
payment, which should be made within the first month of training.
Initially
you will be graded at roughly three monthly intervals by a 8th degree Black
Belt qualified examiner. Thereafter, as you increase in seniority, more time is
needed to practise your skills and develop your philosophy of Tae Kwon-Do. For
example; it may only take you 4 years to gain your Black Belt, but to grade
from 4th Dan to 5th Dan will take at least 5 years.
Although
we insist on a courteous and respectful attitude, our classes are varied,
interesting, and fun, and if you decide to take up Tae Kwon-Do with us, you can
be assured of 100% commitment and encouragement from me, and all of the TAGB
instructors.
I look
forward to welcoming you
C.J.Barrett
6th Dan