FAQS

Do I need to be fit to start training?

We often hear concerns such as “I have no coordination, I am not flexible enough, I am not fit enough”, but remember, you train to get fit. You don’t need to get fit to train. Everyone works at their own level at Sefton Tae Kwon Do – go as hard or as easy as you want. We start every class with a specific warm-up so you will be ready for the training that follows. Training in Tae Kwon Do will provide you with improved flexibility, coordination, balance, muscle strength and muscle tone, not to mention fat loss. You will notice an improvement with each class.

Do all students need a licence and insurance?

Yes, all students are required to have an annual licence and insurance. This covers annual membership with the TAGB (Tae Kwon Do Association of Great Britain) and provides the necessary insurance.

The TAGB is the governing body for our school, the largest martial arts association in Europe, and is recognised by UK Sport and the British Taekwondo Council. A TAGB licence is mandatory for all students to train, grade, and compete under its standards.

What Competitions are available and when can I compete?

The TAGB hold several competitions each year.  Various Regional Competitions and 4 Open National Competitions (English, Scottish, Welsh and British Championships). They also have International events like European and World Championships.  These are some of the biggest martial arts competitions in the World.

You can compete when you have a valid TAGB Licence and Membership, have all the correct sparring equipment and hold the minimum rank of 9th Kup (white belt yellow stripe)

What should I wear to training?

For your introductory lesson’s wear loose-fitting athletic clothing that is suitable for training e.g. shorts or track pants and a t-shirt. Please also bring a drink. Once you sign up to become a member you will receive a uniform (dobok) in your starter pack. You can purchase additional items of training wear for your lessons from your instructor.  Please note that you can only wear a TAGB approved uniform (dobok) for gradings.  Your uniform should always be clean, ironed and worn with your belt.

The Tradition of Bowing in Taekwondo

Bowing is a fundamental tradition in martial arts, often misunderstood. It symbolises humility, respect, and a lack of arrogance. More than a gesture, it signifies mutual respect between instructors, students, and fellow practitioners.

When entering the training area, bowing serves to clear your mind of outside distractions, allowing you to focus on the training ahead. Similarly, bowing when leaving the training area marks the conclusion of your session.

At our academy, every Taekwondo class begins with a bow towards the instructor as a sign of gratitude for their guidance. Additionally, bowing before and after partnering with someone acknowledges your readiness, respect, and appreciation for their role in helping you develop your skills safely. The bow before signifies alertness and readiness, while the bow after expresses thanks for their care and contribution to your progress.

Do I need sparring equipment and What equipment do I need?

Sparring equipment is required once you reach Green Belt Blue Stripe and can be purchased at any time during your training. However, it must be TAGB-recognised gear with the TAGB logo, as only this equipment is approved by our insurer and governing body.

The required sparring equipment includes:

  • Headguard

  • Gloves

  • Foot Pads

  • Shin Guards

  • Gum Shield

  • Groin Guard (for boys and men)

 

About Gradings

Gradings

Gradings are held every 3 months for Taekwondo students, but only if they are fully prepared and know their syllabus. Readiness is assessed by the instructor.

Each grading is overseen by an external examiner, typically a TAGB World Master, 8th Degree Black Belt or higher.

Black Belt Gradings

Black Belt gradings take place every 6 months, typically at the Helidon Lakes Hotel in Daventry (NN11 6GG), though the location may change. To be eligible, students must be at least Red Belt with Black Stripe and meet all TAGB requirements.

These gradings are examined by five TAGB World Masters.