POWERHOUSE TAEKWONDO
FAQ
We'd normally say 8 is a good age to start training, but that assumes all children are the same, which they definitely are not! Come along for a taster session and see, or drop us a line to discuss.
Is there a minimum age?
What level of fitness do I need?
Taekwondo can be intensive but we build up to it from whatever level someone starts and give alternatives and options appropriate to the individual. So in reality you can start from any fitness level, and train appropriately to your capability (and you can certainly improve your fitness, if that's your goal).
I've been training under a different system, do I have to start from scratch?
No, absolutely not – it's most important that you can enjoy and progress your training (any minor differences in styles can be worked through as we go).
Do I have to do assessments? What's involved?
You can train at your own pace, but if you attend regularly you will most certainly improve, and the assessments ("gradings") to progress through the grades, signified by belt colours, is an excellent motivation. At a grading you will need to demonstrate you can perform the techniques, patterns and sparring to the level you are grading for: this is done in a group with other students at the same level. Whilst it may appear daunting, dive in with enthusiasm and you'll enjoy it!
What information will I need to provide?
Name, address and contact information is needed for affiliation to British Taekwondo (which also means you're insured to train).
What makes taekwondo such a great martial art?
It is a modern martial art based both on the traditional Korean arts and modern physiological principles. It's still being evolved and improved by technical committees and research findings. Taekwondo uses pads and protective equipment to ensure it's both effective and safe. Although some different versions exist, the World Taekwondo and Kukkiwon are nationally and internationally recognised. All ages can train together so it's great for families.
Techniques are taught from fundamentals to emphasize the way to perform them without injury, and sparring training is set at a level appropriate to the abilities in the class. All instructors are DBS-checked through British Taekwondo, and we also have a Safeguarding Officer for the club.
How do you ensure safety?
How do the mixed ability classes work?
Part of the responsibility of the advanced grades is to encourage and coach the lower grades: we work together to help each other progress – and of course, a class with beginners won't be asked to perform advanced techniques!
How do I get uniform and how much does it cost?
Taekwondo uniforms can be purchased yourself online, or can be bought through the club with a small discount - a basic taekwondo suit (or "dobok") costs approximately £20-25 for adults and around £15 for children.
How do I pay for classes?
You can either pay per class or monthly, either online (bank transfer or standing order), or in cash.
Do I have to stay with my child?
It's not required, but training together as a family can be extremely rewarding (and enormous fun)!
Why are martial arts so good for us to do?
As well as the self-defence aspect, the training provides all-round fitness, strength and mobility. It's great fun and great stress relief - nothing like kicking a pad after a hard day at work / school! It provides individual challenges we can all aim at and achieve regardless of age or athletic ability. Research has shown that combining physical exercise with learning skills is a very effective way of improving and maintaining cognitive ability.