FAQ

Do I have to to be fit to start training?

No, whatever your level of fitness, you'll work at your pace and you'll find your fitness will improve over time.
Do I have to be flexable before I start?

No, you will get into shape as you train. We have a series of exercises that you will learn as you progress through the ranking system which will enable you to perform techniques.
I am 31 years old, am I too old to start martial arts?"

No, you are not too old to begin martial arts training. We have has students start from 5yrs through their 70's and older. We often have many generations of the same family train.
What is Taekwondo?

Tae Kwon Do is a Korean Martial Art that focuses primarily on kicking techniques. Some Tae Kwon Do schools also teach Olympic style fighting (WTF). Our club trains in the ITF version which is the original and more fluid style, renown for its kicking.
I am very busy with my work schedule, how much time do I need to devote to taekwondo classes?"

The two 1 hour classes are week are recommended, as is practicing at home as we approach gradings. With the two classes a week your fitness and flexability will improve as well as your overal standard.
How long does it take to get a black belt?

If you hit all your gradings from beginner to blackbelt it is 3.5 yrs. However you will progress at your own pace and although we encoruage continual progression, there is no set timeframe. Some students will obtain blackbelt in the minimum time other will take 5yrs+
What sort of things should I consider when choosing a school?

First of all you need to choose a school that is not going to cause you many problems in getting to, as attendance is vitially important to your development. Secondly ask yourself what you want to get out of training, if you are interested in sparring in competitions then choose a club with a good competitve profile as sparring with good fighters will imporve you greatly. If its a family atmosphere then check out the make up of the club, some clubs have lots of juniors others are adult heavy.
Will I get hurt?

Sparring is only one element of Taekwondo. In sparring great emphasis is placed on semi contact sparring and control. Higher grades know how to encourage and push lower grades without hurting them. I've rarely seen serious injuries in sparring, most injuries occur in the warm up!!
Why choose Taekwondo?

Taekwondo is no better or worse than any other martial arts system, it's all about personal choice. If you want to get fitter, more flexible, more confident, meet people and join Europe's largest martial arts association and take part in Britains largest competitions then we are for you.