h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Little 'un started his first ever Taekwando class last Thursday. The teacher told them he was going to teach them how to do it, and manners. Manners consists of bowing when anyone wants to leave the room, enter the room or any number of other occasions.

He was a bit floppy in some of the stuff, however his concentration was good (very good for him!) and his manners were excellent. I think this will be a very good way of teaching him discipline and focus as well as him having fun. I amy join an adult starter class when they are next taking on new people. It takes place after the children's class. I'll need to be confident that he will sit quietly and watch.

Do you think my fourteen year old is a difficult age to start somethng like this? Most kids will have started at age 7 or so. He is very well coordinated, but I have often thought that the discipline of an Oriental sport would be of great benefit to him. Would you recommend Taekwondo or something else for a potentially aggressive, pubertating and growing boy?

I'll have to have a serious look round at what's available locally, of course.

I would certainly consider it, TC.

There were certainly small children there, however there were older children as well. I started mine as a friend had started hers and said it had had a good effect on him, The regime in the classroom is one of obedience and reverence, but also one where people have fun and a chance to develop skills. I signed him up for a course of five classes for £25 which isn't bad. Having had the first one, he's really keen to go back for the next one.

I'd certainly give it a try. For a 14 year old, it may be preferable to something like T'ai Chi, which I also do. I don't know anything about other martial arts, however, people have advised against Judo. Karate might be another option, or Aikido (even better).

Let me know what you decide and how it turns out!.

fourteen is a good age to start TaeKwonDo. I started when I was almost fifteen, and I have been training for a year. I have gotten very much out of it. It especially helps your confidence. And it's a lot of fun!

Mine was seven when he started (he's still seven, but there you are!), and was reasonably enthusiastic, but more interested in playing. Interestingly enough, there were children there smaller than him with much more application, including one tiny girl who was absolutely amazing. Mine took to sulking - sitting down and refusing to join in.

Maybe I'll try when he's a bit older - or try to find an aikido class. That was what I wanted for him in the first instance.