Q: Why join this club, and not the others?
A: For many many reasons! Some of which are:
1. We believe in improving all aspects of physical fitness, as well as the techniques of Taekwondo. Therefore, we train in flexibility, strength, and cardio in addition to sparring and forms. Exercising with friends is a great way to keep in shape and stave off stress!
2. It’s a great way to make new friends! We have members in all sorts of majors, from BME’s to IR, that are more than happy to show you the ropes, or just share some advice. Some people think that a sport club is not worth the time in terms of resume building, but we have had alumni attend Ivy League medical and graduate schools!
3. You have the unique opportunity to not only be a member and officer, but also to be a future instructor! It definitely shows leadership and commitment, which most graduate or medical schools look for! In addition, student instructors are always on campus, know the problems particular to the Hopkins student population, and are not committed to teaching at any other schools which means they plan their lessons with our specific club in mind!
Q: What if I am not athletic, or am very uncoordinated, or have no experience?
A: It doesn’t matter what level of physical fitness you’re at, we welcome everybody to learn, train, and improve with us! You will be pushed and challenged no matter what skill level you are at. We have members of all different athletic backgrounds (from no sports to fencing to track) and most students who join have had no prior martial arts experience at all, but we all work up a sweat at practices!
Q: Are you ITF or WTF?
A: ITF
Q: What is the difference between ITF and WTF?
A: The simplified explanation is that ITF is more traditional and teaches Taekwondo as a martial art. WTF was founded more recently to focus on Taekwondo as a martial sport, and train with the primary purpose to enter Olympic style sparring (fighting matches) competitions. However, if you are new to Taekwondo, we would recommend choosing a club or school based more on its instructors, the quality of the classes, and the philosophy of the club.
Q: Do I have to attend every practice?
A: No.
Q: Can I keep the belt rank I already have?
A: If you are ranked in the ITF system, then you can most likely keep your belt rank. Regardless, we will want you to learn the material for each of our belt levels, if you do not know it already. Those not ranked in a similar school, but still possessing significant martial arts knowledge, can advance through our ranks very quickly.
Q: How often are belt tests?
A: Each student tests at his or her own pace. Students typically schedule two belt tests each semester.
Q: Can I join anytime during the year?
A: Yes, we try our best to welcome new members to the club, whenever they join.
Q: Are there classes over Intersession and the Summer?
A: There typically are classes available for those in the area, but not as many as would be available during a semester.