Although Taekwondo is a full contact sport, where you are allowed to kick to the head (throwing punches to the head is not allowed) it is not very dangerous to practice, because there is no need to actually win, and in competition, full protection is used to keep the competitors safe.

Although self-defense is usually the reason most people study Taekwondo, there are numerous other reasons: physical fitness, weight control, figure control, confidence, self-respect, self-discipline, flexibility, increasing stamina or tension and pressure relief, among many other benefits.

 

Whatever the reason a new student studies Taekwondo, they soon become aware of many benefits from the the training, both expected and unexpected. Taekwondo students feel healthy and physically fit. They are confident that they are learning to defend themselves and this quiet confidence filters through to all phases of their daily lives; including home, job, school, etc. As they progress in Taekwondo, students acquire a greater respect for themselves and others.

The answer to this question is simple: How hard do you want to work? If you devote yourself to 2 classes a week, you can progress rapidly. All beginners start by wearing a white belt and then advance as their ability improves to yellow, green, blue, red and finally black belt. The average person will take 3 years to achieve 1st Degree Black belt. After 1st Degree, there are 2nd through 9th Degrees that the student may achieve towards mastering the art of Taekwondo. The Black Belt is a symbol of the Taekwondoist's victory over himself. Each Black Belt holder knows the pride of achievement in the art of Taekwondo. Like everything in life; one gets out of it what one puts into it.

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art, and incorporates both the abrupt linear movements common to Japanese Karate and the flowing circular motions that are found in Chinese Kung Fu, emphasizing kicking techniques. Also, Taekwondo is a collegiate and international Olympic sport, which the others are not.