The noise we’re talking about is the shout we use when we are practising taekwondo training. It’s not restricted only to taekwondo of course; many styles of martial arts incorporate the use the ‘shout’ as part of their training. The Korean term is ‘Ki-Hap’ it means to shout with spirit. What it actually does is…
Of all the different facets of training in taekwondo, for most students, free sparring is probably the most exciting. Testing yourself against an opponent is a quick way to learn about your faults and how to correct them; But only if you spar correctly. Taekwondo free sparring differs from Karate free sparring. In karate free…
Do you train because you just enjoy it or do you have a desire to achieve black belt? Your reasons for training are exactly that… your reasons, not anyone else’s, just yours, so ask yourself “what do I want from my training?” Is it a healthy lifestyle, camaraderie, fitness, defence or get to black belt….
I have always found it difficult to understand, why, when someone has an injury, they cease all training. Of course if the injury is serious, such as a car crash or other disabling accident then of course there must be time to recuperate. However if the injury is a sore muscle or perhaps a small…
I began teaching in 1975 and have had thousands of kids come through my taekwondo school. During those early times the kids were more robust and were a lot stronger both physically and mentally. I’ve noticed a very definite shift over the years, toward over protection by parents, which is leading the kids into…
Some people get really involved with their training, that’s a good thing by the way, and they train every day and that can also be a good thing provided it’s done correctly. If you train hard and I do mean hard, every day the chances are you will increase your chances of injury. If you’re…
Regardless of what physical activity a person is engaged in, a ‘correct’ state of mind is essential in order to reach maximum effectiveness. Our brain controls our actions, except when responding to certain stimuli, such as when we accidentally touch something hot, then an automatic response will kick-in and you will immediately flinch away from…
Late in 2012 I was considering ideas for a new novel when a character presented herself to me —fully formed and with a fascinating story. She was a martial artist working as a bodyguard for a prominent businessman. While writing the first draft for this novel, I had to immerse myself in this character’s mind…
When asked if I would like to write a blog for the newsletter, I decided to use the opportunity as a shout out to all the parents who drive their kids to training every week and watch from the back of the class. I was one of you. My name is John Christie and I…
Peculiar headline isn’t it? Whether you realise it or not, that’s exactly what you do every time you attend class training.If you have ever trained in a fitness centre you probably have at some stage used the exercise bike and treadmill. Most people don headphones and watch the TV screen when using this equipment, because…
Call Now