Practicing at home

Many people ask, how should I practice Taekwondo outside of the dojang? While there is no substitute for regular class participation to keep you on the right track, under supervision from your instructors, practicing at home will help the student learn and improve their Taekwondo skills.

The number one thing a student can practice on their own is “the basics”. Taekwondo, like all martial arts, is built around its basics. Practice your stances, footwork and techniques such as kicks, punches and blocks as much as you can. Use a mirror to check your form if you do not have a partner to work with you. Skill is built through repetition. As the great Bruce Lee once said, it is better to practice one kick a thousand times than to practice a thousand kicks once each.

Run through your patterns. Patterns, also known as poomsae, are set routines containing movements and techniques appropriate to your level and are especially helpful if you are training alone. Use a mirror or record your movements with a video camera to allow for feedback.

Train with a partner if you can. This will help with motivation and to give each other feedback, as well as allowing you to practice in different ways. Training with a partner allows you to do additional drills, such as practice of blocking and countering or self-defense skills.

Training at home will sharpen your technique and prepare you to reach your goals in Taekwondo.

Remember, it is always best to learn from someone who is more experienced and qualified as an instructor. He or she will have a better idea of what you need to be doing, allowing you to progress faster.