Coming back after a long break...

[Simon.]

Hello everyone [img]smile.gif[/img]
I imagine almost no one in this forum knows who I a or has ever seen me post here, so I'll give you guys some background...
First of all, my name is Simon. Hi, nice to meet everyone [img]smile.gif[/img]
I've been thinking about starting my TKD training again for a while now, and finally decided that I want to go through with it.

I have a first Poom black belt ( not sure if it automatically turns to a Dan when you turn 15, all I know is the only difference in the test was that we didn't have to break any boards), but due to alot of reasons that are now irrelevant, I stopped training seriously when I was about 14.
I'm in college right now and with the tight schedule hypertrophy is gonna be hard since I barely have time to eat, and there happens to be a TKD course I can sign up to, so I figured what the heck [img]tongue.gif[/img]

Problem is, my technique is total crap, I can barely kick above my shoulder line, I am in pathetic cardiovascular shaped. Where do I even start?

I want to get back in the swing of things before the course starts 2+ months from now, and was hoping to get some pointers. I know Chris, the resident expert just happens to be a TKD coach so I guess I'm in luck!

I realize that training alone is hardly optimal, but even when the course begins it's only one session per week and that's hardly enough.
How can I get my technique and back in order in that time frame? Is that even realistic? ;/

Thanks in advance everyone, Simon.

[Chris Correia]

Simon: It's great you're planning on getting back into training. You'll likely find it to be really fun, even if you'll need to work back into stuff.

Particularly is you were Kukkiwon certified as a poome, then you may be able to be upgraded to black belt. That's the way it works at the Kukkiwon, I believe; however, exactly how that is handled locally depends on the system within which you train. In our system, poomes must still test for their "adult" black belt. All of our poomes, however, do a whole bunch of breaking at their tests, even starting at a young age. So, how your rank is handled will be determined by the master instructor who would be responsible for testing you or who heads up your system.

Don't let the time gap make you fearful of where to start. The best way to get into taekwondo and to develop in taekwondo is to just start! I hate when prospective students say they'll start after they get in shape and get stretched out a bit. First, it will never happen. Second, THAT'S WHAT CLASSES ARE FOR!

I'd say just start the classes, and then you can spend a little time here and there working on your own with stuff you're focusing on in class: pattern, some kicking to the air, some footwork. I think it will come back faster than you think, but that doesn't matter. You'll progress however you do, which is OK. Just go work hard within your range/limits/ability, listen well, and have fun. I bet compared to the average student, your instructor will appreciate your attention, effort and manners.

Good luck!