Fighting to be zen
As a Taekwondo practitioner, I can tell you from personal experience that it is great for both your body and mind. Especially when I was younger, I felt my self-confidence grow a little bit after every training. I can’t really explain why, it’s not as if you feel better because you can strategically place your foot in someone’s face, but more that you feel your strength grow and your skill improve. And that makes you feel really f-ing good.
The way of the hand and foot
Taekwondo literally means ‘the way of the hand and foot’ in Korean and is categorized as a Korean martial art. It teaches you techniques of self-defence and combat, but also discipline, self-control and courtesy. Not only does it strengthen your body, but it strengthens your mind as well. The emphasis is on perserverance and self-control. A typical training consists of getting your body fit, practicing your kicking techniques, getting skilled in defence techniques and combining all of the above in a free fight with a partner. This partner is not your personal punchbag, but allows you to practice everything you have learned in a controlled and courteous way.
About every year you have to pass an exam in order to get a higher belt. I recently passed my exam for the black belt, and you can’t imagine what a kick that gives you! I still get it everytime I put it on for training. It is amazing for your body as it is an intense sport and will keep you in good shape, but besides that, it helps me to clear my mind as well. When I’m feeling stressed out, an hour of Taekwondo can clear my mind and muscles from all the tension I felt before. Who would have thought you can be in a zen-state of mind while kicking and punching?
Full body workout
Taekwondo trains almost every muscle in your body by providing a varying workout. You work on your abs, back muscles, biceps, shoulders, thighs, butt, and so on - basically everything. That's because it trains you to get fitter, stronger and faster so you can become better at the techniques. So you train your body ánd learn how to use this newfound strength for a useful purpose. I'd say you should really try it if you're looking for something fun and new to do and don't be scared of the idea you might have of it!