A Mother’s Journey of Resilience and Healing at Crafers Taekwondo

A Mother's Journey of Resilience

Gratitude to World Taekwondo

I would like to extend my deep appreciation and gratitude to you both for the positive impacts that joining World Taekwondo has had on myself and my family.

Empowering My Daughters

My eldest daughter was the first to join at the age of 6 as a way to help her develop her voice and become more assertive. My husband and I were quickly impressed with our instructor's skill and professionalism. We see her as a positive, strong female role model for both of our daughters.

Our 9-year-old daughter, a small and feisty child, joined just before she turned 5. A year ago, she was diagnosed with autism and had always struggled with large crowds and loud sounds during grading tests. However, this didn’t stop her from progressing, as there are options like catch-up grading tests. I am so impressed with the inclusive approach to Taekwondo that your club offers, catering to individual abilities and ensuring no one feels excluded.

Thanks to your inclusive practices, my daughter has been able to continue with her friends at her own pace and challenge herself when she’s ready. In September, we were all so happy for her as she attempted to do her grading as part of the larger group grading test and successfully completed it. This was a significant achievement for her in overcoming sensory processing issues, and she was so proud of receiving her green belt.

A Journey of Personal Growth

I started World Taekwondo shortly after my youngest daughter began, primarily for fitness. At 43, I noticed my physical fitness declining and didn’t feel good about it. I never imagined I would take up a martial art; it was never on my radar.

Initially, I didn’t realize all the positive benefits that would come in addition to increased fitness. As a contemporary jeweler, my fine motor skills were strong, but the rest of my body felt somewhat disconnected. World Taekwondo training made me more aware of how I use my body while creating jewelry, leading to a more sustainable approach to my craft.

Demonstrating Life Skills

As a mother, I am demonstrating positive life skills by attempting something difficult and achieving it through practice. I love that the classes reflect the community, with men and women of all ages, creating a diverse and healthy environment. Each session is different, and I always come away with something new or improved.

Leadership and Resilience

In 2021, I took on a leadership position in the arts. This demanding role feels more achievable due to my experiences with World Taekwondo training. On a personal note, following my breast cancer diagnosis in March 2020, World Taekwondo became crucial for me. Emerging from COVID lockdown, I was recovering from surgery and was excited to get back into training and see everyone again. The Sunday morning outdoor classes were incredibly enjoyable, and I am thankful for the alternatives and extra efforts to continue training during that difficult time.

Healing Through Taekwondo

During my radiotherapy in July and August, I continued training, despite finding it difficult to concentrate and painful to perform some movements. It was easy for me to adapt to my capabilities without feeling like I was putting anyone out. Each session connected me to my current physical state, allowing me to focus on my strengths while acknowledging my struggles. My World Taekwondo training provided me with strength, even in my weakest moments, and for that, I am truly thankful.

Conclusion

For me, this is a life choice. Forever thankful. - Kath, January 20, 2023.
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au

Could You Survive a Violent Attack? - Burnside Taekwondo helps!

Violence is on the Increase!

BREAKING NEWS posted yesterday (February 02, 2021) at 6:05 PM on ABC News online:
"South Australian police are investigating a graphic assault caught on camera at a business in Adelaide in which a young woman was attacked by a man in front of shocked customers." The video of the event went viral yesterday on YouTube.

Wouldn't You Like to Have the Confidence to Defend Yourself?

Convert fear into action. Join World Taekwondo today and never look back.

World Taekwondo - Oriental Sports Academy February 03, 2021
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au

Transform Your Life with World Taekwondo Adelaide SA

You too can start your journey today!

My name is Wahid Halimee, and I am an expert in the field of martial arts, particularly in the traditional style of Taekwondo and close combat self-defence Hapkido. In 1996, I co-founded the World Taekwondo Academy of martial arts and the Oriental Sports Academy Australia with my partner, Master Instructor Carol Halimee.

Our Unique Approach

I would like to introduce our unique approach to teaching martial arts—a system designed to boost your confidence and help you become active, lean, fit, and strong. With over four decades of collective experience in health and physical education, we have helped people of all ages achieve incredible results through our scientifically based martial arts training program.

Purpose Comes First!

There are many martial arts programs available today that make various claims. But how can you determine what works? We have done the hard work for you. By following our time-tested three-step system, you can be assured of positive and amazing results:

Three Steps to Success

Step 1: Get Started Now

Visit our website and fill out a simple enrolment form. This form is not a binding contract and allows you to start and stop at any time. You have everything to gain and nothing to lose. Just last week, a new member eagerly joined online; unfortunately, she slipped at home and injured her leg. Putting her membership on hold was as easy as sending an email. That easy!

Step 2: Attend Classes

You will learn step-by-step what to do and almost immediately begin to feel fitter and more confident. We introduce basic moves at a suitable pace, ensuring your progression. Many beginners, even those with negative past experiences, have commented positively about our approach at World Taekwondo.

Step 3: Give Training a Chance

It usually takes only 2 to 4 sessions for your body to adapt to the exercise. You owe it to yourself to maximize your experience, and we promise you will reap the benefits. For instance, Joseph, one of my students at Henley Beach, began training at age 56 and has just achieved his 2nd Dan Black Belt. All he did was give the system a chance and attend classes.

Effort Counts!

The reason I share these three simple steps is that I know they work. If you follow these strategic steps, you will achieve your goals. If you need extra support, we are here to help you every step of the way. If you have any questions, just drop us an email; we will be more than happy to assist you.

Master Wahid Halimee - January 29, 2021
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au

A Baby Boomer’s Journey in World Taekwondo Henley Beach

Transforming My Life Through World Taekwondo

My name is Jozef Klimkiewicz. I started training at the age of 55 under Grand Master Wahid Halimee and Master Carol Halimee. World Taekwondo has been a significant addition to my physical lifestyle. Through years of training, I've realised how much it means to me and how it has changed my life. World Taekwondo is not merely a physical fighting skill; it is also a way of thought and life.

Power Breaking: A Rewarding Addition

The addition of power breaking or board breaking lessons to our training is a fantastic way to complement our practice. It reassures us that our constant kicking and punching is rewarded with success. Knowing that we can break boards barefoot or barehanded encourages us that our hard training does not go to waste. We also learn to improve our techniques if we don’t break them—it's a win-win situation.

Patience and Perseverance

Patience and perseverance have their rewards. I always set the crossbar a notch higher with each practice, but I’ve learned that proper warm-ups and conditioning are vital for success. This journey is a never-ending learning curve, which keeps me hooked.

Mental Strength and Peace of Mind

I am neither a coward nor a hero; I've faced difficult situations many times. Over the years, I've learned that if you look and behave like a victim, you are treated as one. Mental self-assurance is key to confronting any difficult situation. I often anticipate how I would react to defend myself in critical situations. However, there are no winners in a fight; the best way to win is to avoid one.

The opportunity to practise my World Taekwondo skills under Grand Master Wahid Halimee and Master Carol Halimee has given me the mental strength and physical ability to face the dark corners of my life with peace of mind.

Jozef Klimkiewicz - January 28, 2021
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au

I Feel Empowered Through Henley Beach World Taekwondo

Finding My Taekwondo Path

My name is Rita Zaikos, and I began my World Taekwondo journey in 2011. I have always had an interest in martial arts, having practiced Aikido in my early twenties before moving interstate. Fast forward 20 years and three children later, I enrolled all my children in World Taekwondo, believing it to be a wonderful sport for their mind, body, and spirit.

The Beginning of My Journey at Henley Beach Taekwondo

World Taekwondo stood out among other schools for its innovativeness, passion, energy, enthusiasm, and quality of teaching. One day, Grand Master Wahid suggested I join World Taekwondo. At that moment, I realized that as a mum, I had become so focused on my family that I had forgotten about myself. This marked the beginning of my journey in World Taekwondo, stepping out of my comfort zone and into the challenging zone.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

I truly believe that this was the best decision I made for myself. World Taekwondo challenges both body and mind, strengthening them uniquely through training and self-discipline. It's like taking a journey of self-discovery, continuously fine-tuning oneself.

Physical and Mental Growth

Training has helped me immensely in my life. Physically, I have become fitter, stronger, and more flexible. Mentally, it has strengthened my ability to push past limitations, helping me stay focused and positive, no matter what life throws my way.

Active Meditation

World Taekwondo is a fantastic avenue to escape into another world, leaving my problems behind and focusing 100% on training. It feels like an active meditation, and I always feel fantastic after each session.

Favorite Aspects of Training

My favorite parts of training are sparring and self-defense techniques. I enjoy applying what we've learned in real situations and learning to read my opponent to gain the advantage in self-defense. I also love giving back to the club by volunteering at gradings and assisting with the kids; it’s a great feeling!

Achieving Black Belt

For me, achieving Black Belt is a recognition of self-belief. It inspires me to persevere and remain determined through self-doubt. The Black Belt acknowledges a long journey of mental, physical, and spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of self-discipline and focus. It also reflects my hard work and dedication to inspire confidence in myself.

Gratitude

I credit Grand Master Wahid, Master Carol, and all the instructors and fellow students who have supported me in my quest to achieve Black Belt.

Rita Zaikos - July 20, 2019
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au

From Fitness to 4th Dan Taekwondo Black Belt

Starting My Taekwondo Journey

When I commenced World Taekwondo in 1990, I had no ambition or aspirations to become a Black Belt. I joined primarily for fitness but soon developed a passion for training and made every effort to attend as many sessions as possible.

Building Confidence

Even after achieving my Black Belt, I didn't believe I would ever have the confidence to teach a class, although I loved helping with the juniors. Over the years, I gained the skills to instruct and run centers in the Adelaide Hills.

A Proud Achievement

My journey to 4th Dan has been both exciting and measured. I am very proud of my promotion to 4th Dan, yet I am truly humbled by it. I know that without the guidance of Grand Master Wahid and Master Carol, both exceptional role models, this achievement would not have been possible. Instructor Patrick has also had a significant influence on my journey.

Enriching Experiences

World Taekwondo has enriched my life in many ways. I have had the opportunity to travel to South Korea on five occasions to train and have shared many varied and memorable experiences. Meeting interesting, diverse, and good-hearted people has been a highlight of my journey.

Life Lessons

I appreciate what our training offers: it trains the mind, body, and spirit. I love the tenets of World Taekwondo and believe they provide a solid grounding for life in general. I will wear my new rank with pride and look forward to the next chapter in my Taekwondo journey.

Margaret Rogers - October 4, 2017
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au

Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence

Getting Started

Before starting World Taekwondo training, I had never attempted a martial art. I did very little sport at school due to being small, light, and asthmatic. At university, I dabbled in various sports, most notably rowing, which I continued for several years. As an engineer, I spend most of my time sitting at a computer, leading to back and neck issues.

Finding Motivation

I became interested in World Taekwondo because my younger son started training. I wanted to do something other than sit and watch while my children participated in sports, modeling the behavior I encourage in them. I often lack motivation when exercising alone and needed a group activity with set targets. I realized that my son was achieving this through World Taekwondo. I started training a year after him, and when he moved up to the youth and adult class, we were able to train and practice together. Although both my sons have since stopped training, World Taekwondo remains my primary focus for keeping fit.

Boosting Confidence and Energy

World Taekwondo has improved my confidence both physically and mentally. Even if I feel tired at the end of the day, I know that attending a class will energize me, and I always feel better after training. I have also enjoyed assisting with kids' classes, helping students learn and improve. It's important to give back to junior students, just as I've received assistance myself.

Lessons Learned

Through my World Taekwondo training, I have learned the following:

• It’s never too late to start something new, especially if you can enjoy it with your children;
• Patience, as mastery of each element takes time, and there is always room for improvement;
• Lifelong learning, as each technique and pattern leads to the challenge of the next.

Embracing Challenges

My favorite part of training is the challenge of learning a new pattern after each grading and improving it weekly. Even after mastering a pattern, there are always refinements to learn and errors to correct. At the time of my 1st Dan grading, achieving it felt like a huge effort, and I wasn’t sure if I would commit to training for 2nd Dan. The preparation for Black Belt demanded sustained high performance and refinement of everything I had achieved, raising the bar even higher.

Training for 2nd Dan

Training for 2nd Dan has forced me to focus on my weaker elements rather than stay in my comfort zone. Setting the goal of reaching 2nd Dan has enhanced my focus on all aspects of World Taekwondo.

Jonathan Griffith-Jones - May 27, 2017
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au

Inspired by My Children: My Journey in World Taekwondo

Finding Inspiration

My children and other mothers inspired me to start training. I began World Taekwondo after two of my children were already training. Watching them train, noticing the values taught, and acknowledging the many health benefits prompted me to join in. As a former gymnast, I was excited to train in a sport where I could be barefoot again, and it was wonderful to share this experience with my children.

Coping with Stress

My training has helped me through some stressful times. It’s wonderful to walk through the door for training and leave all my problems behind for a while. The support from other World Taekwondo members has been incredibly beneficial during these times.

Health Benefits

The many health benefits of training—including fitness, flexibility, strength, balance, concentration, and focus—have significantly improved my overall health. Many people comment that I look younger, and I find that after training, I am simply happier.

Passion for Patterns

My favorite part of training is the patterns. I love the flow and movement combined with the skills required to perform them. Patterns provide a great way for me to focus and lose myself in the movements. I also cherish the community and culture of the club, where everyone is supportive, friendly, and encouraging.

Stronger Bonds

I love that I get to train with my son, Blake. Sharing this common interest has strengthened our bond and relationship.

Achieving My Black Belt

Obtaining my Black Belt is important to me as it acknowledges my hard work and commitment. It is a respected achievement in the wider community, and from my very first day of training, I decided that this was a goal I would strive for.

Gaynor Robertson - March 25, 2017
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au

From Mother to Martial Artist: Embracing Fitness and Confidence.

Returning to Martial Arts: A Journey of Growth and Family

Introduction

I was always involved in Martial Arts as a teenager and young adult. When my children started to show an interest, it was the perfect opportunity to get back in and spend time with them doing what I love. This has always been a part of my life.

The Impact of Training

My training has given me the persistence to keep going, even when I doubted myself. It has provided the courage to pursue my dreams and make them a reality. I see myself as a confident person and hope that those around me view me as a positive influence. I am proud of what I do.

My training has taught me how to be more assertive without crossing the line while staying humble.

Community and Connection

Some of the most important people in my life are those I train with. My favourite part of training is learning new techniques or patterns and being put on the spot to demonstrate or spar. This experience brings me out of my comfort zone and cements the fact that I can perform under pressure.

I enjoy helping during class and grading, as giving back to our community is just as important to me. Achieving 2nd Dan is significant because it means I have committed to the next level, even when it would be easy to coast through or quit, like many do.

Personal Milestones

I knew that attaining 1st Dan was only the beginning of my journey. I smile every time I put my belt on and walk into class because I know what it has taken to get here and where I am going. My father would be proud now; he started this journey many years ago. Achieving this next belt will be extra special, and I dedicate it to him.

Conclusion

Touch Helen, and your first World Taekwondo lesson is free!

Helen Papageorgiou - January 20, 2017
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au

How World Taekwondo Transformed My Life After 50!

My World Taekwondo Journey in mid-life.

Introduction

My name is Joe Parisi, and I started my training at World Taekwondo Salisbury Branch at the age of 57 years. Although I have been fascinated with martial arts for most of my life, I had always been too busy with family and work commitments to actually participate in any training.

The Beginning of My Training

I first attended the Salisbury Training Centre to accompany my son, who has an intellectual disability, as he was very keen to start training. This rekindled my interest in martial arts, and I decided to start training in May 2012.

Fitness and Focus

At the time, I weighed approximately 99 kilograms. One of my main reasons for training was to lose weight and get fitter. The training not only helped me lose a total of 15 kilograms, but it also helped me stay focused amidst the challenges of a hectic work life. Personally, I feel fitter now than ever before, more energized, and capable of accomplishing physical tasks at work and home.

As my fitness level has improved, I can now participate in social activities with my young family members without tiring quickly. I have also gained confidence in approaching challenging tasks at work, especially those dealing with difficult customers.

Social Interaction and Growth

Socially, I have found it easier to communicate and interact with others, becoming less self-conscious. I’ve developed more respect and patience for the needs of others. The best part of the training is the interaction with others. We all share a common goal, making it easy to relate to each other during sessions, whether in regular training, advanced classes, or power breaking.

Personal Enjoyment and Achievement

It’s hard to decide which part of the training I enjoy most. I really enjoy fine-tuning each of the patterns, as it gives me the opportunity to improve personally by growing in self-control and confidence, knowing I can achieve good results with effort.

The Significance of Black Belt

The Black Belt represents personal growth, both mentally and physically. It is the reward for my dedication and persistence in a sport that relies solely on my own capabilities.

Conclusion

My journey in Taekwondo has been transformative, enhancing my fitness, confidence, and social interactions. I look forward to continuing this path of personal growth.

Joe Parisi - December 17, 2016
For more information visit worldtaekwondo.com.au