Taekwondo For Children, Physical, Psychological And Social Benefits
Many parents have the idea that taekwondo is a violent or aggressive sport, but nothing could be further from the truth. Nor does it require great strength to practice it. In reality, this discipline requires perseverance, providing great benefits in return.
Like other sports, this martial art of Korean origin develops the physical capacities of the body. But it is also a very technical discipline, which will help children learn to know and control their body. It is a very complete training, which will also provide social, psychological benefits and important values to children.
What is taekwondo?
Taekwondo is an ancient combat sport, a martial art. Of Korean origin, it stands out for the great variety of techniques that it includes: kick, hand, foot, elbow, fist and even knee. It also has self defense techniques.
But in addition to the physical or technical level, taekwondo represents a whole philosophy. This is based on five principles: c ourtesy, integrity, perseverance, self control and indomitable spirit.
It is one of the best known and most widespread martial arts. It is estimated that more than 30 million people practice taekwondo, spread over more than 144 countries. Taekwondo has also found its way into the Olympics. It began as an exhibition sport in Seoul, 1998, and at the Sydney Games in 2000, the first combat competitions were played.
Equipment needed to practice taekwondo
To practice this sport you need, first of all, a Dobok. It is the practice suit, made up of pants and jacket – the equivalent of the kimono of other martial arts. It will also be essential to wear a Ti, the belt that indicates the degree or level of the practitioner.
In combat, the use of polypropylene gloves (pads) and protective boots made of this same material is usually required. It is also usually mandatory to use protectors, especially the mouth and the groin. In addition, and depending on the level of the participants, you can wear a helmet, chest protector, shin guards and forearm protectors.
The benefits of taekwondo
This sport has become a way of life for those who practice it. It is an instrument to achieve both physical and mental balance.
Taekwondo seeks the fulfillment of the human being in every way. In the case of children, it will help them go through the most difficult stages, acquiring important personal values and healthy lifestyle habits.
Physical benefits
- Improves muscular strength, as well as cardiovascular endurance.
- Increases elasticity, agility and flexibility.
- Helps develop coordination and balance skills .
- It brings control and knowledge of one’s own body. Since this is achieved through basic movements but of a high technical level, it will prepare them for future activities of greater difficulty, in any sport.
Psychological and social benefits
Taekwondo also helps to temper the character of children. Those with high energy levels become calmer and more aware of their body and environment. Or, to take another example, the more shy and introverted children will gain confidence, self-esteem and initiative.
- It brings great concentration and discipline.
- By mastering their bodies, they gain self-esteem and self-confidence. In addition, they will learn to interact with their environment more effectively.
- Important values such as honesty, loyalty, companionship, teamwork, respect and humility are fostered .
- It is a cultural learning opportunity . Through taekwondo they have access to knowledge of customs, traditions and ways of thinking different from their own. It will also teach them tolerance and solidarity.
Some tips about taekwondo
Although this discipline originated for combat, it is not an aggressive sport. The basic training of taekwondo is to defend yourself, not to attack. What’s more, this sport seeks to bring peace and tolerance to those who practice it, among other previously mentioned benefits. It is an ideal aid to channel the inexhaustible energy of children, especially if they have disorders such as ADHD.
The ideal age to practice this sport is around 4 years old. It is better to start young, because although taekwondo brings great benefits, it is also very technical and “slow”. Changes are not appreciated overnight, and it takes a lot of effort, perseverance and discipline to master the bases and keep improving.
Therefore the presence and help of parents will be essential. They will have to remind their children of these values, their responsibilities and tasks, encourage them when they think they are not progressing and, above all, support them. The most important thing is that the child is happy with what he does, with the environment in which he finds himself and that helps to create, and that he always puts all his enthusiasm and effort in his day-to-day life.
