More than just flashy kicks
EMMARENTIA – Students learn about focus, self-control and respect at Fighting Fit Central.
EMMARENTIA – ‘I shall be a champion of freedom and justice. I shall build a more peaceful world. I shall never misuse taekwon-do.’
These are lines taken from the oath that Magua Taekwon-Do students recite every week.
From white belt to black belt, these students meet at Fighting Fit Central, the Emmarentia dojang for Magua Taekwon-Do, where awesome punches and jaw-dropping flying kicks are not the only things people learn.
Co-founder of Magua Taekwon-Do and president of Taekwon-Do South Africa, Norman Magua explained that he taught the most original form of taekwon-do as promoted by the International Taekwon-Do Federation.
“Our style is traditional, it is a complete martial art,” he said.”Taekwon-do orginated in the military so it encompasses the dirty side of self-defence as well as the artistic form – the flashy moves.”
Above and beyond this, students become fit and supple, and grow in confidence, focus and self-control. For many, taekwon-do is an empowering factor in their lives.
“Taekwon-do relieves stress and lifts your spirit,” said Tanzi McGeer, a white-belt student who has been doing taekwon-do for seven months.
“It builds your confidence too – I used to be a very shy person but this has helped me overcome shyness.”
You can read: Punches and kicks for South Africa
Third-degree black belt student, Fraser du Toit, who has been doing taekwon-do for 11 years, agreed that the martial art increased self-assurance. “It has also shaped my way of thinking. I now have a peaceful outlook on life. I have respect for people, for animals and for the environment.”
Details: fightingfitcentral@gmail.com; 083 226 1836.
