Before Taekwondo classes...?

Question

Before you start really Taekwondo classes what kind of exercises do you do? Do you do push-ups and splits?

Answer 1

No training is needed to get ready for a martial art. They do it all for you in the class. You may want to get a head start on your splits, but unless you know how to do them properly (there's more to them than you think) then don't worry about it. Don't worry about doing push-ups or sit-ups or anything, you'll get PLENTY of them in class.

Answer 2

I don't do TKD any more, but I was a student under a very traditional family for many years.

We always warmed up with calisthenics or plyometrics (jumping jacks, pushups, situps, running laps around the school etc.) and lots of stretching before class . Shadow boxing is another good warm-up.  Our sa bum nim expected us to be warmed up when he came to instruct, so I was always there 15-20 minutes early - whether you can do that depends on your school's schedule and facilities.

Answer 3

Generally I work out everyday.  The day of my classes(or test) I try to make sure I play a round of golf in the morning.  It stretches me out really good and loosens some of the muscles I use of spin kicks (I also walk the course instead of the carts).  Right before class starts, I stretch before I drive to class and again in the dojang (I have an hour drive). I go over forms and other techniques.  One of my favorite stretches to do at home, to do kicks over a chair.  When I first started, I kick over the seat, then the back and as high as I can, I like to focus on technique do this.    

Answer 4

We ran for 15 minutes before we did our stretching exercises.

It was all part of the class.

Answer 5

Warm ups to increase stamina (running, etc.) and strength (especially core strength). Then some stretches. If you're attempting to do the splits, then you should stretch your legs beforehand, rather than just trying to go straight into them. You'll find it a lot easier, and there's less risk of injury. We also do exercises to improve our reactions, like shadowing a partner.