Anyone tried taekwondo (as an adult)?

[Anonymous]

What did you like/not like about it?

[Anonymous]

I started it about 6 months ago. I like it mostly because it's exercise that I actually do and enjoy (it's not just getting on the bike for the sake of getting on the bike). It seems like a decent mix of aerobic, plus some core strengthening and flexibility.

[Anonymous]

Do you have to be naturally aggressive to enjoy it?

[Anonymous]

(Sorry, I didn't mean that to sound negative.)

[Anonymous]

Certainly not at my level (at least where I go). Beginners aren't allowed to spar, and it seems the adults (even black belts) rarely spar (there may be a separate class for that). It's kind of funny because sometimes they explain the details of how to do the movements properly by reference to actual fighting techniques and my ears sort of glaze over.

[Anonymous]

Thanks, this is very helpful! Would you mind saying where you take classes?

[Anonymous]

I took it in my late 20s and LOVED it--except for the sparring, which you could avoid at the lower levels (except at belt tests) but was somewhat more prominent at the higher levels. I loved mastering the patterns and kicks; I loved the focus I felt when I was practicing; and I loved the affect it had on my fitness level. I was at my fittest in the three years I was doing TKD. I highly recommend it, even with the sparring.

Unfortunately, the school where I took classes no longer exists. But I've heard good things about Flying Kick in Bethesda--the bonus is that they apparently have great kids' classes, too. I'm thinking of signing my kids up there.

[Anonymous]

I took it in my 20's. I LOVED it! I also loved the sparring. We learned how to throw people too. I lost 40 pounds with this being my primary exercise. But my classes were two hours long, three times a week.

[Anonymous]

Flying Kick is a good option (and 21:34 they also have family classes a couple times a week if you and your kids want to do a class together).