Is Taekwondo useless off the mats??

Let’s start by looking at my own usage of Taekwondo throughout the years… I started training when I was 15 years old, I’m now 32! That’s 17 years of Taekwondo training and knowledge accumulated.

How many times have I had to use my Taekwondo skills in a self defence situation?

None.

That’s right! I’ve never had to use my Taekwondo to protect myself!

Many people would think that I’ve wasted my money, time, and effort learning a martial art in this current age of guns and technology.. that I’ve learned how to punch and kick and never used it?

I believe something different.

I believe that Taekwondo training (martial arts training in general) has helped build my character.

I didn’t join when I was 15 because I was being bullied, I didn’t join to become stronger or more confident..

I joined Taekwondo to become a better version of myself.

The founder of Karate-do, Gichin Funakoshi defined modern Karate training as below…

“The ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory nor defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants ” 

― Gichin Funakoshi

I agree wholeheartedly with his assessment! Taekwondo training is no different!

Thanks to the focus on the five tenets of Taekwondo I improved my

Courtesy (Ye-Wee) 여의

Integrity (Yom-Chee) 염치

Perseverance (Een-Nay) 인냬

Self Control (Gook-Gee) 극기

Indomitable Spirit (beckjool boolgool) 백절불굴

I started making my bed.

I started keeping my room tidy.

I was always a respectful person to others, and somehow I found a way to go the extra mile for people. I began to put people ahead of myself.

I started bowing even off the mats!

Everyone become ‘sir or ‘ma’am’ when I met them or introduced myself to them.

I even started walking like a blackbelt, when I wasn’t even wearing it.

THAT is what I believe has helped me not have to use my Taekwondo skills in self defence. I believe that if you have the mindset of a martial artist, you are always ready and LOOK like you’re always ready. Calmly and confidently going through life with intention and focus.

There are so many things for people of all ages to benefit from off the mats. Our character will definitely improve through consistently training martial arts for our whole lives.

Not to mention we’ll also learn a few punches, a few blocks, and a few kicks!😋

Take stock of what character traits you have developed as a result of training martial arts.

Train hard, and see you on the mats!👊