Three times a week, seven young students eagerly gather at Mountain Fitness to study a Korean martial art known as Taekwondo. The energy level is palpable as this group tackles forms, kicking, punching, board-breaking, self-defense and physical-fitness activities.



Taekwondo is the national sport of Korea. This form of martial arts became a gold medal sport beginning in the 2000 Olympics. Taekwondo translates to feet, hands and mind. The popular sport combines a variety of techniques that include combat techniques, self-defense, sport, exercise, meditation and philosophy. Taekwondo that is taught at Mountain Fitness emphasizes both methods of traditional Taekwondo, involving power and self-defense, along with sport Taekwondo, which focuses on competition and speed. At the beginning of every Taekwondo class, the ten commandments of Taekwondo are repeated, instilling values and respect in the students. They are as follows: Strong spirit, effort, patience, attitude, self-confidence, respect for the national flags, respect for instructors and parents, respect for higher ranking belts, never misuse Taekwondo techniques, and there is no defeat, only victory. Students must demonstrate these values to progress. More...