Question 1

What is the meaning of Tae-Kwon-Do?

Accepted Answer

In English spelling, Tae-Kwon-Do consists of three parts. However, in the Korean language, it is written as one word: 태권도. "Tae" refers to "Foot" or "to strike with feet," "Kwon" means "Hand" or "to strike with hands," and "Do" signifies "Way," "Discipline," or "Art." 
Therefore, TaeKwonDo can be translated as "The Art of Kicking and Punching" since it combines the techniques of striking with both the hands and feet.

Question 2

What is the difference between Taekwondo or other Martial Arts?

Accepted Answer

Like all martial arts practitioners, Taekwondo students perform a lot of upper body techniques like punching, blocking and striking.
 
What distinguishes Taekwondo from other martial-arts is it's superior kicking techniques.
 
In Taekwondo, students can learn to perform multiple kicks while spinning, jumping and flying in the air.

Question 3

I am 41 years old, am I too old to start martial arts?"

Accepted Answer

No, you are not too old to begin martial-arts training.
 
Taekwondo regularly has students start from adolecense through their 50's and older.

Question 4

I am very busy with my work schedule, how much time do I need to devote to Taekwondo?"

Accepted Answer

You should train at least 3 days a week if you want to get all the benefits of Taekwondo.
 
As you progress through the ranks if you want more 1:1 attention we offer private lessons which can further help hone your skills.

Question 5

How long does it take to get a Black-Belt?

Accepted Answer

Becoming a Black-belt should always be one of an important goal for every Taekwondo practitioner. It takes between 3-5 years to achieve a Black-Belt in Taekwondo.

Question 6

What sort of things should I consider when choosing a Taekwondo school?

Accepted Answer

SAFETY: Are the instructors attentive? Do they give clear directions? Are there a lot of injuries? Injuries can happen as they do in any sport, but excessive injuries can be a sign of a problem with the school or teacher.
 
STRUCTURE: Is the class organized? Are the students learning a specific skill or technique? Is there order in the class? Who is in control, the teacher or the students?
 
TEACHER’S DEMEANOR: Is the teacher like a drill instructor, doling out punishments, or a milquetoast that never raises their voice? Somewhere in between is best. 
 
FUN: The students should be learning, following directions, and accomplishing tasks, but also having some fun. It shouldn’t be drudgery. There should be a good mixture of work, learning, and having fun. If your child learned something new and is sweaty with a smile on their face, that is probably a pretty good class.
 
Observe the class.

Question 7

What is the class structure at True Spirit Taekwondo?

Accepted Answer

At TST, we instruct students to connect with their inner well-being, known as 'Chi', 'Spirit', or source of 'Energy', and learn to control it.

Our class structure is dynamic and includes a short meditation at the beginning of each session, followed by a full-body stretch and cardio fitness drills such as squats, lunges, burpees, jumping jacks, push-ups, and knee-ups.

In the next part of the session, we practice kicking and punching drills using pads, shields, Bob heavy bags, or chest guards for sparring. We have all the necessary safety-approved Taekwondo gear including professional training mats. Music is available to keep you motivated. Final part of the session, we explore the artistic side of martial arts by practicing patterns also known as 'Poomsae' & self-defence techniques called 'Hosinsul'.

We offer complimentary TRIAL sessions, and encourage parents and siblings to join together and experience our 'True Spirit Family' fitness regiment.

Our classes have a 12 student capacity limit in place to ensure we provide personalized attention to each student, develop social skills and make potential lifetime friends.

Question 8

Taekwondo Terminology: Essential Words To Know

Accepted Answer

Gym for practice – DoJang
Uniform – Dobok
Thank you – Kam Sa Ham Neda
Attention .- Chah-ryut
Bow – Kyung Nae
Ready  – Joon-bee
Begin – Si-jak
Yell – Ki-Yahp
Sparring – Gyoroggi
Self-defense – Hosinsool
Forms, formal exercises – Poomsae (TaeGeuk)
Front Kick – Ap Chagi
Roundhouse or Turning Kick – Dollyo Chagi
Side Kick – Yeop Chagi
Back Kick – Dwi Chagi
Low Block – Ahre Maggi
Middle Block – Momtong Maggi
Outside Block – Backat Maggi
Walking Stance – Ahp Sogi
Front Stance – Ahp Gubi Sogi
Back Stance – Dwi Gibi Sogi
Korean Numbers 1 -10
1. Hana
2. Dul
3. Set 
4. Net
5. Dasot
6. Yasot 
7. Elgub 
8. Yodol 
9. Ahob 
10. Yol 
The other numbering system (which is of Chinese origin) is used in most other cases:
1: Il
2: Ee
3: Sahm
4: Sah
5: Oh
6: Ryook
7: Chil
8: Pal
9: Koo
10: Ship

Frequently Asked Questions