Twelve of us represented Hilliard Taekwondo at the Taekwondo America Black Belt camp at Berry College in Rome GA June 26-29. The weather was great so all the workouts were outside. We learned sparring tips, worked on forms, practiced self-defense and learned how to use nunchucks. During free time, there was swimming, tennis, football, frisbees, fun games, video games, Hoover ball and even time for some napping.

All you blue belts and up who will be at least 8 years old by next June, if you pass every testing from now through June 2009, you could go to camp with us next year!

Are you a brown belt or higher and at least 8 years old? Do you come to your own belt level classes at least 2-3 times a week every week? Do you know and perform the basics of taekwondo well: stances, hand techniques, kicks? Do you observe the Tenets of Taekwondo and demonstrate good behavior in the lobby, in class at HTA, at tournaments, HTA social events, as well as away from the school? Do you and your uniform look neat and clean when you line up for class? Do you work out hard in class, answer up loudly and respond quickly when given instructions? Do you show up for class on time and wear the proper uniform?

Then you might be leadership material and might be able to earn the privilege of helping out in the lower ranking classes. To find out more, talk to Ms. Thompson or Mr. Weislogel.

Besides being a lot of fun and a great form of self-defense, the exercise you get from Taekwondo (aerobic/cardio, strength training, flexibility) benefits every part of the body, including how you feel about yourself, the health of your heart, the strength of your muscles and the density of your bones.

When you exercise your body produces endorphins, which are chemicals that make you feel more peaceful and happier. Exercise can help some people sleep better and help with mild depression and self-esteem. Plus, exercise can give you a real sense of accomplishment from having achieved goals.

Exercising to maintain a healthy weight also decreases your risk of developing certain diseases, including type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, which used to be found mostly in adults but are becoming more common in teens. Exercise also helps prevent osteoporosis (weakening of the bones, making them more prone to breaking in later life especially among women).

Taekwondo encourages the development of positive character traits such as respect for others and self, self-control, patience, perseverance, self-confidence, a "can do" mindset, and a non-violent attitude.

Students learn to step up to challenges, overcome obstacles and become role models for others.

Almost any one can do it . kids, teens and adults. You don't need to be in shape first. In fact, many beginner students have never exercised regularly before trying their first Taekwondo class. Of course, we encourage you to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program. 

Taekwondo ... a great form of exercise and self-defense, plus a whole lot of fun!