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Jul 04, 2011 Rating From Meysam in Shhrekord, Iran by: Meysam Hello Sara, I really appreciate your endeavor in learning taekwondo, and your power of will. Your problem is one of the commonest problems in learning as general. I have a taekwondo class in IRAN.I have seen many learners that had your problems. Some have given up. but others resisted and still make efforts to do their bests. Those who resist succeeded and one of them, 32 years old, have already taken 3rd DAN black belt. He is very skillful and helps me to teach young learners . But you'd better find an adult-specific club to have and learn at the same time. Yours, Meysam Zafari

Jul 04, 2011 Rating My advice to Sara by: Austin I read your compliant and understand what you are going through, however it is unfortunate that the sport you are so much in love with is becoming so tiring and stressful due to work pressure, language barrier and your trainer is not helping issues either. From your write up I figured out that you have not actually intimated your trainer about the nature of your work, the distance and time constraint. If he is in the know of your challenges and your love for the sport TKD, am sure he will find a lasting solution to your challenges. Goodluck my dear. Austin

Jun 04, 2011 Rating never give up by: john I believe tdk is a way of life because for me,i have no trainer.i only watch movies and read magazines.I must eke for a living because my family depends on me.Sometimes am tired and feel like not practising and despair but i committed myself for better or worse. Just commit yourself.

Jun 03, 2011 Rating find a TKD student to teach u privately. by: Alex if the trainer(29) insists that u do it every kick like every body (the young student) then get a student whom will teach u after u close from work and u are settled. This way u can control the training in ur way a little bit. NEVER GIVE UP.

Jun 02, 2011 Rating Don't give up;) by: Anonymous Just don't give up.You will be sorry after 10 years.Continue your path and make yourself a purpose in this art.

May 31, 2011 Rating Keep Looking by: Anonymous I started TKD when I was 37 and have been doing it for 7 years now. It is worth doing. However, we aren't children and should not act like or be taught like children. Good Luck and keep trying. It is worth it to find a teacher who will teach you.

May 31, 2011 Rating Noting good comes easy. by: Anonymous Hi seera, You have that determination and that spirit of a warrior, don't let any body intimidate you.Do not make up your mind to the negative side.Challenge your self and your instructor. Best wishes Abdulrasheed

May 28, 2011 Rating Never Give Up by: RPnavyair Taekwondo has always been there for me when I needed the peace, calm and focus on direction. Have been a black belt since 1975, through life's many significant challenges the words Give Up are not part of my vocabulary and never have been. I have passed this onto my children, two of whom had a very terrible fight with Cancer. Stay connected and focused, you will run into people such as the instructor mentioned in every walk of life. Use these circumstances as opportunities to learn. I have used Buddist Dharma for many years. Good luck with your journey. R

May 27, 2011 Rating It works for me. by: Joel This is not your normal taekwondo story. I have been practicing taekwondo for at least twenty years with the help of Grandmaster Hee Il Cho's ITF vhs tapes and books. I mainly practice forms. I also incorporate taekwondo while walking on sparsely populated trails. I punch on the way out and kick on the way back. In summer taekwondo and swimming work well. Try practicing a form while standing in the ocean. I have no belt. My only claim to fame is a taekwondo sports participation award from President Bill Clinton through Taekwondo Times Magazine. Taekwondo is a part of my life. Sometimes I practice more, sometimes less. It depends on my life, work, and family circumstanses. I never had the time or money to attend class. This is my taekwondo. It has seen me through sickness. It has helped me rehabilitate injuries. When all seems lost, there is always the first form Chon-Ji. My advice is - Just do it.

May 26, 2011 Rating Don't give up! by: Daniel Indomitable spirit is one of the hallmarks of taekwondo. Don't give up; just consider this a break while you regroup! I wish you the very best! Continue to practice on your own until you find a school that is a good fit for you. Best wishes to you!! Daniel

May 25, 2011 Rating Bleibe am Ball by: Laura Gebe nicht auf. Ich bin auch oft muede, aber fordere mich.

May 24, 2011 Rating don't give up by: robert don't give up. Do the best you can, don't let the instructor bother you. If you realy can't take anymore go look for another place, there has to be one that you wil be happy with. Don't forget there is always a bigger reward when it becomes tougher. Hang in there!

May 24, 2011 Rating Tenants by: Ernest Kudron Remember the tenants of TKD. I too had a hard time. I am physically challenged after breaking my back in 8 places, tearing my lungs, and fracturing my wrist. I hurt a lot to put it mildly. There were times I felt my instructed did not understand. Yet as I grew in strength and endurance I began to understand the limits I was putting on myself were the only things holding me back. I then was able to move on and grow to the Black Belt I became. Yes, my Doctor finally did put an end to my hard training but I still learn. I just can't jump, run, bounce or Kick. But I can still observe, Keep gaining knowledge of the mind, Character of the heart. I study my Bowstaff, Chucks, and escrema often. I am down, but I am far from out. And yes, seek other instructors if you can not work with the one you have. I had to go through a couple before I found the one who would push me but not make me feel like I was not working hard enough.

May 24, 2011 Rating Keep the TKD in your life. by: Montezuma Martial Arts Hello, I am 62 years old and have been training in the martial arts since my mid twenties. I finally tested for Black belt 3 years ago under the mentorship of a gentleman of my same age group who had a better understanding of the challange I faced. But I endured because I had devoted so many years at other schools with varing degrees of caring and competent instructors. Some of those schools made me want to quit but instead I followed the concept of "Perserverence" It is what kept me coming back and learning despite the personality of the instructor because even then I believed I was at least learning what I didn't like about the person and what did like about TKD. I know have my own martial arts studio and teach twice a week. I have students that range from 6 years old to their early fifties and they have the love of TKD in common but are all different in how they pursue their goals. Some show up for every class and some come only once a week. I treat them all the same because once they come thru the door they deserve to learn. So if you focus on the learning and ignore the personalty of the teacher, then you will always walk out a better person that the one who is not.

May 23, 2011 Rating Don't Give Up !!!! by: Redmex Hi! I can relate to your story because I too had to change TaeKwon Do schools. I had to give up my school of more than 10 years. It was a very tough decision and a sad one (was not being promoted and was not feeling safe any more), but the truth is that when one door closes, another opens up if you pay attention. Make sure you try to talk to your instructor and let him/her be aware of your needs. If that does not work, then try to look for another school. It is not easy, but it is possible. I changed schools, and had to start from scratch, I now get a lot of respect and train hard with everyone else - young and not so young. I am having fun, feel like a real martial artist and feel challenged and safe. I will be testing for black belt in November and am excited and ready for the tough months ahead - it will only be the beginning of my journey as I have a lot of plans related to marial arts.... I now feel young again and have instructors that are helping along in my journey..... I am only 58 years old.. but who is counting?

May 23, 2011 Rating Don't Give Up !!!! by: Redmex Hi! I can relate to your story because I too had to change TaeKwon Do schools. I had to give up my school of more than 10 years. It was a very tough decision and a sad one (was not being promoted and was not feeling safe any more), but the truth is that when one door closes, another opens up if you pay attention. Make sure you try to talk to your instructor and let him/her be aware of your needs. If that does not work, then try to look for another school. It is not easy, but it is possible. I changed schools, and had to start from scratch, I now get a lot of respect and train hard with everyone else - young and not so young. I am having fun, feel like a real martial artist and feel challenged and safe. I will be testing for black belt in November and am excited and ready for the tough months ahead - it will only be the beginning of my journey as I have a lot of plans related to marial arts.... I now feel young again and have instructors that are helping along in my journey..... I am only 58 years old.. but who is counting?

May 23, 2011 Rating persevere by: Michelle Sara, there will always be reasons why training is difficult, and it is not up to your trainer to understand your passion and desire to learn tae kwon do. I started as a 40 year old when my 2 children were green belts. I had to learn many lessons about how to focus on my own needs and to let the instructors take care of the rest. Now most of the people I train with are younger than me, and though I do my best I know that I will never be able to keep up with them, and that is not important. The most important thing is that I show up for class ready to do my best every time. You will learn alot about yourself as you train and persevere, please stick with it and open yourself to your journey. Your sister in Tae Kwon Do, Michelle

May 23, 2011 Rating You have evrything you need by: Cheryl Gumbs Hi, I was excited to write you with encouragment about my own tribulations about being a 45 year old female who has been thru different dojangs, had a variety of health issues (including a now broken foot and torn ligament) and how with the right instructor you can surpass whatever your dreams may be THEN, i clicked on the response section and saw so much support from all over, I know that you are in good hands already...So, please add me to the long list of unwavering support and do what I did: keep looking until you find the right fit, its out there. Promise !! u can email me at my12eyes@yahoo.com

May 23, 2011 Rating It is what you put into it by: Anonymous I am also, not of a young age and in two weeks, after four years, I am testing for my black belt. How old might I be? Fifty - Five. Besides, the fitness test I had to do and the rigorous black belt testing preparation for this whole month of May, I know that I haven't done anything harder in my life. If, the art doesn't speak to you, which parts of it have not for me, then you're decision is correct. I just kept going. However, it's supposed to be hard. Tell youself, I can do more, than I think I can and trust it. We all did. Good luck! PS. One commentor, Chris I think, said it's what you put it into (TKD) it. Thank you Chris!

May 23, 2011 Rating Training by: Nigel The only people you need in the class are YOU and a GOOD instructor ....when you train you train for yourself ...good luck , i,am sure you will find a good instructor near you

May 23, 2011 Rating Training by: Nigel The only people you need in the class are YOU and a GOOD instructor ....when you train you train for yourself ...good luck , i,am sure you will find a good instructor near you

May 23, 2011 Rating Training by: Nigel The only people you need in the class are YOU and a GOOD instructor ....when you train you train for yourself ...good luck , i,am sure you will find a good instructor near you

May 23, 2011 Rating DO NOT GIVE UP! by: Mamy Hi, Sara! Please, Sara do not give up! Keep on taining. You'll be OKAY! Taekwondo is the best martial art. There is no pain no gain. Make a little effort. OK?

May 23, 2011 Rating TKD in China by: Erica PLEASE contact Daniel Pinkowski Suite 1102 Building B Ri Yue Tian Di Beijing, China 100078 86-10-58075067 or 105 No. 68 Dong Si Shi Tiao Beijing 10007 0086-010-84085277 dpinkowski@gmail.com or dp@rcna.com I met his about a year ago at a Hall of Honors event and had extensive talks with him about how TKD is growing by leaps and bound in China. He also happens to be founder and CEO of Korean Hapkido Association of China. By all means - mention me (he might remember me as columnist for TKD Magazine "Roving Reporter"). Good luck - I hope this helps get you back on your chosen path! Erica Linthorst

May 23, 2011 Rating Indomitable Spirit & Perseverance by: Cris If at all possible do not give up. You MUST reflect on WHY you are taking TKD. Are you taking TKD for exercise? For acquiring the ability to defend yourself and/or others? For fun? Because everybody else seems to be doing it? Because you want to tell people you are a Black Belt? What are you expecting TKD to do for you? TKD itself will do nothing for you. What you achieve in TKD is what you have done for yourself. You only get out of TKD what you are willing to put into it. Your instructor is there to help you achieve, to help you learn the techniques properly, to help you master your body and mind. I very well understand the demands it takes to stay committed to TKD and to make it to class each time. I began TKD in 2005 at the age of 45. Went to class twice a week almost without fail. The only times I did not attend class was if I was out of town, too sick, or had some activity to attend regarding my child or wife. I am now a 3rd degree Black Belt. If your instructor is a real Master or Grandmaster he is probably a master at psychology. I agree with another responder who mentioned that you may want to consider finding a school with an older instructor. Not that older instructors are easier or accept less than the best from their students, but they are more sensitive to the physical and mental demands of life outside the dojo. At 29, your instructor is probably more interested in creating little fighting machines that can put on a good show at tournaments. A more mature instructor will know how to manipulate people so as to get the best out of his students. As long as your instructor is not just teaching TKD to make money, he has a desire to see each of his students achieve to the best of their ability. You did not mention the belt rank you have achieved. You also did not mention how many classes you attend each week. If you have been taking instruction since 2008, and are still on your first or second rank, you may want to consider finding a less technically demanding physical activity. Tai-Chi? Yoga? I am in no way belittling Tai-Chi or Yoga. They are excellent physical exercises. I am contemplating getting into Tai-Chi after I reach 5th degree. If you have made it past the half way point to becoming a Black Belt, STICK WITH IT, you are almost there.

May 23, 2011 Rating Your decision by: Jason Sigler Greetings Sarah, Reading the responses to your post I found myself obligated to offer you my thoughts. First off I commend you for leaving the dojang to begin with. While it’s heartwarming to hear so many people encourage you to stay the course it doesn’t solve the problem therein. One of the most difficult decisions many martial artists have to make at some point is whether or not to remain at a school that is a poor fit to him/her. Because it’s the only school in the area is a very bad reason to stick around. Always remember that a martial arts school is a business first. If you are paying tuition for lessons then you should look at the school through the eyes of a consumer and not just a student. The tuition you pay is for a service. If the service you are receiving is not on an even keel with what you pay then you should have no regrets about leaving. I completely understand your desire to remain in TKD. However, that being said, if the school you left is the only school in your area then leaving was in your best interest. No one should have to tolerate enrolling into a martial arts school to end up more stressed out then they were before starting. Very Respectfully, Jason Sigler

May 23, 2011 Rating Don't Even Think About It by: Saad A. Adams Hi Sara, I understand your constraints and sincerely sympathized with you. You should know that quiting is never an option for you. TKD is not only a martial art, but a way of life. I joined TKD in 2002 while I was 43 and I now proudly have a Black Belt round my waist despite the high demands of my office and family comitments. Sara, I will like you to please reflect on the following profound quotations that may hopely shape your life: "He who has a WHY to live can bear with almost any HOW" Nietzsche "Nothing comes into being without a purpose and the sole aim of the purpose is perfection" Aristotle Sara go for GOLD and we are solidly behind you. Taekwon!

May 23, 2011 Rating YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES. by: Willy. Cheers Sara, To me you have the most powerful "ingredient" for training in any kind of martial art;that is a determined spirit. Do not get discouraged, for I know from experience that you will soon polish your TKD skills as long as you do not give up. As for the instructor, if talking to him is possible, please do so to make him understand your position. However, there are many good instructors out there so if he is not as understanding, consider looking for one who will make you feel more comfortable in a TKD class. I also started training TKD late than most of my peers not so long ago but at the moment am doing good. Fortunately my instructor was more considerate. I believe searching for a good instructor will make your TKD training dream very much possible. Be strong Sara, we got your back.

May 23, 2011 Rating PATIENCE....... by: tony ekaidem congratulations Sara! you've just started the journey of self realization through taekwondo. the problems that you face will actually build you and help you find out more about yourself and others. the journey will be difficult but fruitful. there is always something to learn, even when you think you're not in the right group or the right instructor. remember the tenets of taekwondo and endure in your search for knowledge. only then will you come to understand the point of training!

May 23, 2011 Rating dont gave up by: funsani ,malawi helo sara,dont give up,you have the passion for this sport and is not only you that your are facing this problem even me down here in malawi my job is so evolving alot.its very difficute for an aldult to have the same trainig with children. but he has to understand your problem if he does not, find anather instractor there are skill full instractor and dont give up.

May 23, 2011 Rating DO NOT GIVE UP by: Anonymous Please keep up the good work. I am in the same situation. I have 2 sons that are black belts. I have to practice with theme every day. In the begining it was very hard for me, but after 2 months I could practice with theme in the same class just as good as every one else. It is all about conditioning and practicing more often. I wish you the best!!!!

May 23, 2011 Rating DO NOT GIVE UP by: Anonymous Please keep up the good work. I am in the same situation. I have 2 sons that are black belts. I have to practice with theme every day. In the begining it was very hard for me, but after 2 months I could practice with theme in the same class just as good as every one else. It is all about conditioning and practicing more often. I wish you the best!!!!

May 23, 2011 Rating DO NOT GIVE UP by: Anonymous Please keep up the good work. I am in the same situation. I have 2 sons that are black belts. I have to practice with theme every day. In the begining it was very hard for me, but after 2 months I could practice with theme in the same class just as good as every one else. It is all about conditioning and practicing more often. I wish you the best!!!!

May 22, 2011 Rating Never give up by: Anonymous Remember never give up. Sounds like you need to find a different instructor. Don't give up good instructors are out there (I know because I have one) and yes adults should be treated different than children. We are different. My instructor teachs different for adults. I watch my grand daughters class so I know it is different. Keep looking for a good instructor.

May 22, 2011 Rating Continue your training by: John M. Sara, I can understand the issues you are facing. I will be 59 in August, and when I started taking TKD, I took it with my teenage son and his friends. We were in the same class, and yes, it was difficult. My Master is an 8th Degree, and is a few years younger than me, but most of his assistants were in their early 20's. Fortunately even they understood the limitations caused by my age. They all knew that I was giving my all, and accepted and respected that fact. The point I am trying to make, is that you should not be discouraged because they do not understand. You are giving all you can, and you should be proud of that!! It does not matter if they are not understanding, YOU will know your efforts. Eventually, your instructor will realize that you are a dedicated student doing your best and will respect your efforts. In the mean time, start looking for another school. Maybe there will be one that fits your needs better. I sincerely hope you continue with your training. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. John M.

May 22, 2011 Rating Never give up! by: Dr. John M. Landry Please do not quit! I have been involved in martial arts since 1974 and I can honestly say, in the words of Grandmaster Hee Il Cho, " I promise you, the rewards are limitless, more than you can imagine."

May 22, 2011 Rating Please don't give up,use your 5 Tenants to get you thru. by: geaglejwg I can understand your problem, I am 56 years old and had taken a 32 year break since taking it in Korea and starting back into it now. Korean Masters are hard,and except very little fudge facter in your performance. I agree with a other comment about trying to find a class with students more tour age. I have difficulty kicking as high as I could when I was 21,but I still try to the best of my ability. It may be that you need to advise your Instructor of your limitations and a halfway area can be found. I worked back up from 10th Gup to 6th Gup and it has not been easy,as I suffer from Gout,and need two knees replaced. Just try to work thru it and continue your training TO THE BEST OF YOUR ABILITY .

May 22, 2011 Rating Older Instructor by: Anonymous I have studied TKD for over 10 years now and have 3 different instructors due to moves. Have you considered finding a dojang with an older instructor(45-50 years old). Many who are older have a better understanding of the stresses of adulthood as well as patience helping us older students with our limited physical abilities. I am 38 and have had 4 kids. The last two were twins and were both big (over 6 pounds) when born. As a result, my hips are not so flexible yet and thus my kicks are significantly low. They are much lower than I would like them, but I can't hurt myself. My instructor understands this and helps me with flexibility exercises in order to get my kicks higher. Don't give up on TKD...you won't regret it. Kimberly

May 22, 2011 Rating Complete your mission/perseviarence by: Charles- chi Anyhaseyo Sara! Am Charles 22 frm Nairobi-Kenya. As i write thz, am goin thru the same tryin to figure out hw i can squiz tym for my Coffee shop job n TKD lessons. The only difference btwn us is tht my Master( Kim ) isnt the cause i stoped attendin classes-but my job. Sara, no much for advice, all i can tell u is, Dont give up, take it as a mission and complete it, try to fit in the class n understand your Masteer/Instructor. And all will be well jst as i always promise maself to get back to class again. Enjoy T K D. Kamsahnmidah. Charles.

May 22, 2011 Rating Don't give up! by: Gray Got dragged along to TKD many years ago when my son went daft on the Teenage Mutant Turtles and after he stopped continued with several other parents. Made my way up to blue tag then work and knackered knees stopped progress but our teacher never had a problem with this providing we tried our best. In our club we have ex Olympian fighters, ex European champions and current World medalists who are always willing to help and encourage at the training and none are ever dismissive of those of us of lesser talent. Think your trainer has lost the plot as winning is not the be all and end all but striving to do your best is! I can only hope you will find a school which is in more akin to the ethos of TKD. I will continue sparring away being used as target practice for the senior belts but this makes the rare points scored all the sweeter! My only regret is that I started in my mid 30's and not when I was younger and fitter but have no plans on giving up.

May 22, 2011 Rating Shocking Intsructor by: Carl "Cerealfreak" Brown Don't let this experience get to you. TKD instructors are there to get the best out of you and if you are having difficulties due to work they should be sympathetic, understanding and help you find ways around your issues to get the best out of you. Find another school with a better instructor, I have had serious back issues for 7 years and my instructors know this and understand this, they work with my strengths and know when I'm doing ALL I can. My 2nd martial art at the age of 14, was Okinawan Karate and one of the black belt instructors was an arrogant very short man, who was angry at the world because he was short, he would throw everything he had into every training session with me to try and bully me, as my first martial art was Judo and my coaches where British Olympic coaches and former competitors I knew how to tackle this man and make him look foolish every time he tried to hurt me. Your experience of THAT instructor is an isolated and not a common one, find yourself a new school and continue your passion. All the best

May 22, 2011 Rating Please don't give up. by: Anthony Hi Sara, Please keep looking for a school you are comfortable with. You will find one. I too have seen schools like this one in the past and my feeling is that they are not demonstrating the tenants of Taekwondo. Part of perseverance is longsuffering. Some say that the Korean word translated for this tenant is better translated longsuffering than perseverance. Longsuffering is having patience with yourself and others. Not everyone has the same skill and ability for a variety of reasons, I too, can not keep up with the 18-22 year old students, but I am still out there learning the art and demonstrating the tenants. Don't give up in Taekwondo because of a school that doesn't understand this. Keep going, you WILL find what you are looking for.

May 22, 2011 Rating Can you move to shanghai? by: Anonymous It sounds like you could use a US Style Taekwondo school - its just that you are in China! Too bad you ar not in Shanghai - you could try Jae Hun. Kim Taekwondo - they are dedicated to teaching Taekwondo to people with jobs and families. No. 1426 Pudong South Road Pudong New Area District Shanghai, China Email: tkdshanghai@hotmail.com http://www.tkdshanghai.com/

May 22, 2011 Rating Keep going on Sara! Do not fall short! by: Majid I am also in a similar condition in Malaysia. But I have a problem which is totally different from that of yours. Here the instructors possess Dan 3, 4, 5 and etc. And mostly they are local Chinese. But with the knowledge and performance of green or blue belt. Since I started my trainings here, I have not learnt anything worthwhile. Just we are jumping this side and that side and trying to better our Abdolyo Chagui. Sometimes some instructor is interested to go beyond and work more seriously, but ..... Anyway, I did not become disappointed. I try to train myself or to find a good buddy for myself that we can train together in our off times. Even at the gym we are trying to follow our own style. You can do the same. Find a good partner with whom you can work in your spare time to improve yourself up to the level you want. Good luck in your TKD and life.

May 22, 2011 Rating Never Give Up-Never Surrender! by: Steve Dear Sara, I have not answers to you current situation. But I will tell you my story. Ever since I was a child, I wanted to do a martial art. I would read the ads in the back of comic books etc and dream of it. We lived in a rather backward area of N.C. so the chances of getting this training was zero. Luck had me move as an adult to the Atlanta area and in 1998 at the age of 48 I was lucky enough to start the training with my 4 children. I was divorced in 2001 and was laid off from a very well paying job. I got behind on my child support payment and thanks to the court system found myself in the county work release program twice. By that time I had worked up to a 2nd degree red belt. In 2008 I was able to return to the sport. It was like starting over. However I received my 1st Dan last June at age 59. Had a heart attack in December and was diagnosed as having Congestive Heart Failure. This has really put a cramp in my style! I now am not able to do the sport that I love. However, I returned to teaching in early February. I still tire very easy, but am able to assist in many ways. So you can see, NEVER GIVE UP-NEVER SURRENDER! There is a club out there that will meet your needs and your wants. They WILL understand your work habits and your age Never Give Up-Never Surrender!

May 22, 2011 Rating Patience/Perseverence by: Mary Rogers Dear Sara, You have challenged me just enough to get me to forward a little bit of knowledge that I have gained in the last 13-14 years of my life. I, too, did not receive much, if any, encouragement from friends, family, or others when beginning TKD. It was quite apparent that a lot of people thought that I was too old as I was just joining a class at 63 years of age. I could have been discouraged but the art of TKD was so exciting to me that I was willing to attack and get around all obstacles. I was very lucky to find an excellent school, wherein, our Grand Master was so happy to have me in the school and was eager to pass along his wisdom. I did always like a challenge so when my daughter dragged me to the beginning classes I was ecstatic to find out how much I liked what I was learning. It was a huge challenge but it tests you in every way possible. The first test that you may have had trouble with is: Patience. Patience leads to perseverence, endurance, and progress. Once you start to see the progress you gain much pride in what you are doing. The humble kind of pride I am talking about - you come to know that it is hard work, repetition, and practice, practice, practice. My daughter became very busy as a young mother but I continued and went on and on, through test after test, tournament after tournament, even winning three grand championships in our Midwest area for forms and board breaking. I loved every minute of the challenges that I met with each and every class and belt testing. Tournaments became overwhelmingly gratifying. Along the way I was also blessed with having another instructor, who was a black belt, and had marvelous dedication to teaching TKD. I excelled because of our Master and my instructor, but most of all, because I was determined to be my very best. Tae Kwon Do was about me and not about my friends, family, or others. The talent, ability, and mastery becomes you and resides inside of you. Through the years I have seen this confirmed again and again. You develop and become your very best when you remain humble while being challeged and meeting those challenges head on. The wisdom that I have gained has been phenomenal, and that is after starting at age 63. I am now 75 and still going strong. I am currently looking for another trainer who will work with me to go for third degree but in the meantime I am teaching four days of children's beginning TKD classes. These little ones have been inspiring in their own way. When they show me how curious and ambitious, and eager they can be I am filled with energy to teach them. I would never have dreamed that I would be a second-degree black belt, at age 75, still doing TKD and teaching. TKD had become another stage of my life and what a rewarding stage it is. It has inspired me to live to be a hundred, and maybe a little bit more.

May 22, 2011 Rating You can do it!!! by: Anonymous I received my Black Belt at 52. Hang in there or find another school. You can do it!!!!!

May 22, 2011 Rating Perservance by: Instructor Peña Anhasayo Sara. You didn't mentioned how often you go to class nor what your belt was. I assume that you are going one to three times a week for two years. The ability of an adult to work in the dojang while sharing a classroom with children. At this time I will hazard a guess that you are a Orange/Green belt. Your language problems betwwen the Instructor/Master and yourself are universal and found world wide. Try to understand that when you Master or Instructor yells that he/she is taking the time to try to elevate you level of practice. I would cringe when I got yelled at until someone who had a higher belt would tell me to consider what was being said and what I was doing. Taekwondo is a LIFElong endeavor and is an art form. As you are an adult I would recommend that you reconsider the reasons why you first entered the dojang. It was for some reason like: getting physically fit or self-defense. Whatever the reason are you satified with your fitness and can you defend yourself? I doubt the quest for both have been met. I have found that the more I learn the more I need to learn. The quest for knowledge in any language and in any country is forever. You must deal with your state of being when you first entered the dojang and your state of becoming where you are now. You should have grown and your growth should provide you with impetus to continue that growth. Please set some goals for yourself. The goal you set is the goal you will get. If you are not a Black Belt then that should be your immediate goal. You should think, act, and be a Black Belt until you become a Black Belt. Ask your self what can you do to enhance your training. You will have to talk with your Instructor and tell him/her what your commuting problems are and your difficulties are when he/she tell you to kick higher and with a geater degree of snap. I know that personnaly I didn't know what a Front Snap Kick ( I thought I did) was until I did 10,000 Front Snap Kicks!!!! These Masters and Instructors have paid their dues. They generally have a very good working understanding of what needs to be done. The dialetic of communication has to become the method and means by which you reconcile your language problems. I hope that what I wrote reinspires you to get back into the dojang and I hope to hear from you that my taking the time to write to you inspires you to oneday become an Instructor and/or Master. Have a wonderful day Kansahaminda! Ray Peña

May 22, 2011 Rating Don't give up by: Ronda Sara, TKD is not about kicking & punching, not about being the fastest, strongest and best in the class but the fastest, strongest & best YOU in THAT moment. Those qualities can change up AND down by the class. Any good instructor knows that each and every student is different from everyone of their other students & each one has their own learning style & speed. I urge you to seek out another martial arts instructor who values the difference that you bring to their class. I am 34 years old and because of martial arts have found extrodinary treasures within myself and within those I train with - you just have to find your home within a dojang that is your family away from family. Its not to say there is anything wrong with your instructor but that its not a good fit to your needs at this moment. Just as each student is different the same goes for instructors. As my instructor tells us, everything is training. The downs and mistakes cause us to learn more than 100 ups. I always tell my own students that mistakes are good because we learn from them. Having a bad experience is as much a learning tool as a good one for the same reason. Should you ever become a teacher, this will be a tool for you to connect closer with your students. Keep training and keep learning! In TKD love, Ronda

May 22, 2011 Rating never give up by: Ray I understand where you are coming from I'm an instructor at my sensei's Dojo. I work two jobs and do the dojo full time as well and I'm telling you to think of it as a test. As far as the instructor and his lack of compassion use that to drive and push you through pass this milestone. Never give up on yourself.

May 22, 2011 Rating Perservance by: Instructor Peña Anhasayo Sara. You didn't mentioned how often you go to class nor what your belt was. I assume that you are going one to three times a week for two years. The ability of an adult to At this time I will hazard that you are a Orange/Green belt. Your language problems are universal and found world wide. Try to understand that when you Master or Instructor yells that he/she is taking the time to try to elevate you level of practice. I would cringe when I got yelled at until someone who had a higher belt would tell me to consider what was being said and what I was doing. Taekwondo is a LIFElong endeavor and is an art form. As you are an adult I would recommend that you reconsider the reasons why you first entered the dojang. It was for some reason like: getting physically fit or self-defense. Whatever the reason are you satified with your fitness and can you defend yourself? I doubt the quest for both have been met. I have found that the more I learn the more I need to learn. The quest for knowledge in any language and in any country is forever. You must deal with your state of being when you first entered the dojang and where you are now. You should have grown and your growth should provide you with impetus to continue your growth. Please set some goals for yourself. The goal you set is the goal you will get. If you are not a Black Belt then that should be your immediate goal. You should think, act, and be a Black Belt until you become a Black Belt. Ask your self what can you do to enhance your training. You will have to talk with your Instructor and tell him/her what your commuting problems are and your difficulties are when he/she tell you to kick higher and with a geater degree of snap. I know that personnaly I didn't know what Front Snap Kick ( I thought I did) was until I did 10,000 Front Snap Kicks!!!! These Masters and Instructors have paid their dues. They generally have a working understanding of what needs to be done. The dialetic of communication has to become the method and means by which you reconcile your language problems. I hope that what I worte reinspires you to get back into the dojang and I hope to hear from you that my taking thetime to write you inspires you to oneday become and Instructor and or Master. Have a wonderful day Kansahaminda! Ray Peña

May 22, 2011 Rating Keep your Hands up by: Anonymous This is your chance to prove what taekwando is all about . Dont let him beat you . This is mental sparring I believe you can win . Let him keep pointing out your faults or non faults there is a master somewhere who could do the same to him.

May 22, 2011 Rating china by: Anonymous if u r in china. why dont you do kung fu its better anyway. i liked tkd but kung fu is still better. shaolin is the best

May 22, 2011 Rating Never give up! by: Michelle Sara I'm almost 48 years old and studying TKD in a class with many youngsters. I find myself unable to keep up sometimes with what is going on and, like you, I am occasionally so tired that I find it hard to concentrate. The class that I attend is brilliant, a mixture of ages and abilities and our instructors tell us to do what we can. Do you have a friend who you could take along to your TKD class so that you may practice together? Support is often a remedy and it might not stop your instructor being bossy, but it could help if you can share your frustrations with a friend who would support you through. If you still feel bullied, find another class. There are many instructors who recognise that we have differing abilities - I'm lucky to be at a class which does so. Also I am sure you are better in some areas than others - sparring, line work, forms etc. It's such a great sport and so good for body mind and spirit, it would be a great shame to stop because of one person. I wish you well Sara, let us know how it goes. A winner never quits! :o) Michelle

May 22, 2011 Rating Don't give up by: Anonymous Taekwondo is not the problem. Your dojang and master are the problem. Continue to look for a new school. The internet should provide a valuable resourse for your search. Before joining a new school interview the instructors and the master to understand their philosophy and whether they are the same as yours. I am 57 and had my share of physical set backs while training. My grand master is a former Olympic coach and currently trains from age 5 to age 73. He does NOT treat them the same. You may have to search for a while but don't give up. I would also encourage you to research Chinese Martial Arts since you are in China but ask the same questions. Wing Chun is one worth considering but there are others. If you were in Japan I would encourage you to investigate Karate or Aikito. I am an avid TKD practioner and believe in the program, however, "When in Rome...". Good luck and don't give up.

May 22, 2011 Rating Trainning by: Bellentani Hallo Sara!! As you are in a different country, with another point of view of things, i think you should quit THIS CLASSES but not TaeKwondo!! Why dont you pick another school?! I was at beijing last year, great place but not really prepared to deal with foreign people, some people are more prepared to handle with people as we occidental. I loved China, nothing against them, please, but i think for now you should free your daily stress in another TKD school!

May 22, 2011 Rating Never Give Up! by: Kalynn Sara, I'm so sorry to hear the difficulty you've had in your taekwondo training. I too have had instructors who expect me to keep up with the teenagers and have shown anger toward me in class for not being able to keep up. It certainly makes you angry and sad that the instructor is not helping you find your personal best. Lately, I have been giving a lot of thought to creating a study online course for people just like you. People who find themselves far from home or far from a taekwondo school they feel comfortable at, but who still want to study and not lose their martial arts skills. Hearing your story makes me more certain that there is a need for a Taekwondo Online home study course. Check back here for more encouragement Sara. There are many of us out here who believe in you and your journey in martial arts excellence. Kalynn

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