|
Frequently Asked Questions |
||||
|
DO I NEED ANY PREVIOUS MARTIAL ART EXPERIENCE? No previous experience is necessary. All you need is the desire to learn. Our beginners’ classes are tailored for new students with no previous martial art training. However, we welcome students of other martial arts who want to learn Taekwon Do. DO I HAVE TO BE AN ATHLETE TO TRAIN? No. Everyone trains at his or her own level. If you are not used to hard physical training, that’s fine. You will find that your strength, endurance, and flexibility increase steadily as you work out. If you are a conditioned athlete, don't worry, you will get a good workout. We welcome students of all backgrounds and abilities. Taekwon Do can be rewarding for anyone who wants to train. ARE THERE ANY AGE LIMITS?
WHAT WILL I LEARN? The beginners’ programme is essentially an introduction to Taekwon-Do, consisting of stretching and exercise, basic Taekwon-Do techniques and movements, pad & target work, some basic self defence techniques, and the philosophy of the art. WHAT SHOULD I WEAR? Loose fitting clothing which allows freedom of movement is best, e.g. a tracksuit and t-shirt, or whatever you feel comfortable in yourself. Please do not wear any jewellery, watches etc during class. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? Training fees are paid per calendar month in advance and are due at the first class of each month. Junior (up to 17 years) - €25.00 per month (2005 rates) Senior (18 years +) - €35.00 per month (2005 rates) Introductory rate - €5.00 per session Family rates & discounts for paying for 3, 6, or 12 months in advance are also available. Please note that members will not be permitted to train if fees have not been paid. Also, fees must be paid monthly, whether you are training or not (unless you inform your instructor in advance that you will be absent for some months). DO I NEED TO REGISTER WITH THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION? DO I NEED A UNIFORM? Not right away. Official Taekwon-Do uniforms are available through the School and cost €42.50?, but do not need to be purchased right away, and are not really required until the first grading exam (usually after two to three months of training). These uniforms are durable and last for many years. It can be considered as a one off purchase. The official uniform normally comes with the ITF & RITA crests as well as the official Taekwon-Do logo on the back & free white belt. WILL I PROGRESS THROUGH VARIOUS COLOURED BELTS? Yes, Gradings are the promotion examinations through which the student progresses up through the grades and are held approximately every three months. The average time taken to go from beginner to 1st Degree Black Belt is between 3 and 5 years. Under the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) regulations, grading exams may only be conducted by 4th Degree Black Belt holders and above who have qualified as International Instructors. ARE THERE COMPETITIONS? Yes, ITF runs organised tournaments around the country each year, and students are encouraged to take part (although participation in tournaments is optional). We also travel away to competitions on an annual basis. When the students reach Black Belt level, they can try out for the national team and represent Ireland in European & World Championships. IS THERE A PHILOSOPHY OF TAEKWON-DO? Yes. As Taekwon-Do has is origins in the East, there is a certain amount of philosophy which is part and parcel of the art. At its heart, Taekwon-Do has five TENETS or core principles. These are Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self Control, and Indomitable Spirit. ANY OTHER QUESTIONS?
|
