Stepping into Your First Taekwondo Class
Taekwondo is a martial art that combines fitness, self-defense, and mental discipline. You can expect a boost in your mood and confidence after just one class. Before your first Taekwondo class, you may think ‘Will I look clumsy?’ ‘What if I can’t keep up?’ These are thoughts everyone has when they try Taekwondo for the first time, and at Windsor Taekwondo we understand that you may feel nervous. That’s why we’ve created this blog post to cover everything you need to know, including what to wear and what you’ll learn, so you’re ready to kick-start your Taekwondo journey.
Getting Ready: What to Wear and Pack for Taekwondo
Preparing for your first Taekwondo class is simple – wear comfortable, loose workout clothes and bring a water bottle. There’s no need to buy a Taekwondo uniform (also known as a dobok) just yet, as you can do so after your trial lesson. Likewise, most Taekwondo clubs will provide equipment such as pads for a beginner Taekwondo class.
As a beginner in Taekwondo, you won’t need special shoes, as you will likely train barefoot for better grip and to follow a long-established tradition. Once you’ve learnt the basics and you feel you are more comfortable doing some activities with shoes on, your club may have Taekwondo shoes for you to buy.
Pro tip: bring a small bag to put your belongings in to keep your items organised and neatly tucked away for the duration of the class.
Class Flow: A Peek Inside a Taekwondo Session
What happens in a Taekwondo class? A Taekwondo class format revolves around the following three parts:
- Warmups
- Technique practice
- Cooling down
Expect stretching and cardio based workouts such as jogging and leg swings to get your muscles warmed up. For the technique practice, you will get a chance to practice apply your Taekwondo skills. As a beginner, there’s no pressure to keep up; you’ll move at your own pace. Depending on the Taekwondo session breakdown your instructor has prepared, your session may involve fun drills or a focus on specific movements.
Pro tip: arrive 10 minutes early to meet the instructors and familiarise yourself with the venue.
Your First Moves: Learning Taekwondo Basics
From your very first lesson you will learn basic martial arts moves no matter your athletic background. Instructors will demonstrate basic Taekwondo movements and will guide you step by step on how to achieve them. You’ll build on these beginner Taekwondo skills over time and landing your first kick will feel like a superpower!
Some core Taekwondo skills and fundamental martial arts moves are:
- Basic kicks (front kick, side kick, roundhouse kick, chop kick, back kick, reverse turning kick)
- Stretch kicks (front stretch kick, side stretch kick, adduction/abduction stretch kicks)
- Punches (single punches, double punches, triple punches)
- Stances (walking stance, deep stance, L-shape stance)
- Self-defence blocks (low section block, mid-section block, high-section block)
Dojo Etiquette: Embracing Taekwondo's Traditions
Clubs may have different names and logos but the Taekwondo class etiquette and core values remain aligned. All members of a Taekwondo club must embrace the theme of respect through their actions. This can be demonstrated through bowing, removing shoes, and behaving in a courteous manner.
At Windsor Taekwondo, the instructors will teach you etiquette from your very first trial Taekwondo lesson, so you'll catch on quickly. Speaking of instructors, it is important to address them as Master or Coach, as a sign of respect.
Taekwondo traditions also connect to the sport's Korean roots which are not just about physical health but also about courtesy, perseverance, and integrity.
Partner Drills and Sparring: A Gentle Introduction
Interactive elements in Taekwondo classes are common, but rare in first classes. You are not expected to spar (fight) in your first class and will have plenty of opportunity to learn how to through controlled, no contact drills. Instructors will ensure any collaborative exercises are safe and that you learn at your own pace.
Initially, you might practice blocks with a partner using safe Taekwondo equipment such as pads, designed for the activity. This will help you build trust with classmates and work better together as a team.
Support System: Instructors and Classmates
Taekwondo clubs are welcoming, inclusive environments where instructors, students, and parents form a community. Instructors are trained to guide beginners with patience, so expect lots of tips as opposed to criticism. In the same way, classmates are encouraging and those with more experience can also help guide you through your first few sessions. In no time you will have your classmates cheering you on!
Taekwondo is a welcoming and beginner-friendly sport, so you'll feel right at home in a Taekwondo class. You'll also find students of all ages and abilities which means fitting in won't be an issue.
Immediate Benefits: What You'll Gain from Class
Why try Taekwondo? Taekwondo has various physical benefits, and many people sign up to Taekwondo for fitness purposes. Just one class can help burn 600 calories! In terms of physical gains, a martial arts workout helps improve coordination, balance, and stamina.
Aside from the obvious physical benefits, Taekwondo has immense mental health benefits. Many teenagers and adults use Taekwondo as a form of stress relief, and kids gain self-discipline. Some clubs regularly engage in breathing techniques at the beginning or end of a lesson as a form of meditation.
You or your child will leave each session feeling energised and proud. Overall, Taekwondo boosts both fitness and confidence - what's not to like?
Post-Class: Reflecting and Next Steps
After your first Taekwondo class, if you enjoyed the vibe and workout, you can have a conversation with your instructor to discuss next steps. This gives you an opportunity to ask about the trial period and how long this lasts.
If you're ready to make the Taekwondo commitment, you can book your next class to keep the momentum. Regular classes build skills faster, so try to stay consistent with your Taekwondo training. You can even further your practice at home by trying stances to stay engaged.
Top Tips for a Great First Class
To ensure a smooth on-boarding, our top tips for Taekwondo beginners are:
- Arrive early
- Stay patient
- Focus on fun
- Ask questions
- Track your progress
Remember, every Taekwondo master started as a beginner just like you and ended up disciplined, fitter, and with lifelong friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need experience for Taekwondo?
A: No. Taekwondo is a beginner friendly sport, regardless of your athletic background.
Q: Do I need special clothes or equipment?
A: You will be given the opportunity to buy a Taekwondo uniform after your trial lesson. You can wear comfortable, loose clothing in your trial lesson, and check with your club for specific requirements.
Q: Do I have to fight in Taekwondo?
A: In your first Taekwondo class, you will not be asked to spar. Instructors will ensure controlled, no contact activities.