We learn our Tae Kwon-Do techniques in the dojang, but it’s important to practice those techniques when we’re away from the gym. Anything you learn in the dojang you can practice at home.
Stretching
Stretch, stretch, stretch. Stretch in the morning when you wake. Stretch before bed. Whenever possible during the day, stretch. If you’re watching television or reading a book, stretch those legs out. Bend over and touch your toes at work. Stretching is one of those things you can never do enough.
Punches & Kicks
Much like in the dojang, you can practice your punches and kicks in the air at home. People will make space in their living room or basement. Having a mirror or pads on the wall is even better. You may not have the room to kick as high or at full speed, but that’s okay. Practicing in slow motion helps increase your balance and maintain control.
Hotels
When traveling, I always find places to practice Tae Kwon-Do. Most hotels have workout rooms to practice your patterns, and even the smallest hotel room has a place to practice in-between the beds.
Outside
Training outside is a blast. Experiment by practicing on different terrains. Grass, snow, even stones. Always train barefoot and maintain your martial arts attitude.
Visualization and Breathing
People think you’re not training unless you’re punching and kicking, and that’s not true. When you focus on your breathing and run through patterns in your mind you’re training. Close your eyes and visualize the ideal side-kick, that flawless reverse-punch. If your mind doesn’t have the perfect picture, your body won’t perform the perfect action.
Books and Videos
There is an endless supply of martial arts books and videos. If you have a fight coming up, find video of your opponent and look for weaknesses. You can read General Choi’s memoirs, or even going through your student manual again.
Most anything you do at home can be turned into practicing. Picking up clothes with your toes, holding a stance while cooking, doing push-ups with kids on your back. Anything you do that brings Tae Kwon-Do into the picture is going to help your training, help your mind, and help your body.
Master Gorino’s Tae Kwon-Do offers a trial program for individuals and families in Buffalo, NY and the surrounding areas that allows you to get a feel for the different classes, meet our instructors, and experience our dojang. It’s a great way to see if Tae Kwon-Do is right for you. To learn more or to sign up, register online or call (716) 836-KICK (5425) and a member of our team will follow up with you on next steps. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals. Pil-Sung!
