Anyways, for Christmas in 2014 I was surprised by my husband whom paid for me to start TKD at the same studio my son goes to. I was so excited that I actually cried when I saw the uniform. For those that personally know me, this is something that does not happen often. I was so ready to start, but I kept putting it off, until my quarter for school was done, so that I could take time and not be stressed or worried about homework. Then kids got sick, so I couldn’t start, then I hurt my back working out, couldn’t start, but finally, tonight I started my first class, January 6, 2015.
Walking into the studio as a student and not just a parent was nerve wracking. I’m glad that my husband and kids were there to support me. It was strange to be on the mat saying, “yes, sir” and counting in Korean like I have watched my son do many times. My nerves were crazy, so crazy that I thought I might pass out because I wasn’t breathing. Why was I so scared? I’m usually very confident and comfortable. Maybe it was because I already knew these instructors and most the people in the class with me were higher belts. Either way, I was dying on the inside.
After stretching, Instructor Johnny asked me to go to the front of the class and introduce myself to everyone. He called my son up and explained to everyone that I joined because I had watched my son for so long and decided that I wanted to try it out as well. At that moment I realized that another mom that I had conversed with several times at sparing for my son was there. I started to feel a bit better. The first thing they had us do was to practice form. I got really nervous about that, because I always think I know when I’m watching my son, but being up there and having them show you and explain things is VERY different. I soon realized just how much I didn’t know about form. That changed as soon as Instructor Martin showed me and explained why they do it that way and that it is done differently when sparing or out in the world for protection.
After form we learned kicks. This part I was totally excited for, but yet still nervous that I wouldn’t do as good as I know I can. We did a front snap kick and jump kick. I love jump kicks by the way, just ask my best friend, she remembers when I was pregnant and I jumped kicked air because I was so upset. Hahaha. Anyways, that was totally off from my story. So, we did kicks one at a time with the instructors and with targets. I was surprised that I didn’t let my nerves take over. For my first day I was proud of my kicks. I know I can do better, but I will just work hard and practice at home to get better, maybe do some Les Mills Combat again! After we did kicks they had us partner up, so I partnered with the other mom that I knew. We did some speed training and sit-ups.
Overall, I have to say that I really enjoyed myself. It was much more of a workout than I was expecting. The stretching was much more than I have done in a while, and I should really do more yoga or PiYo. As a mother of 3, I think this is one of the best things that a mother or father can do for themselves. It not only teaches you self-defense, but it’s a great workout, and these people become like family. Yes, it was only my first day, but don’t forget my son has been a part of this studio for almost a year. We have attended all their functions and parties, and everyone I have met through TKD is awesome. If you have yet to every do any type of martial arts, you can always learn and start out trying Les Mills Combat. Their videos are a great way to start and learn the kicks and punches, granted it’s more MMA based. Either way, I hope you enjoyed hearing about my first day at TKD and I look forward to many more classes.