MSK Taekwondo for Austism Spectrum Disorder

By Deb Denny, 1st dan

For children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), there is a large variety in severity and types of symptoms. Most people on the spectrum face some challenges with communication, social interactions, balance, repetitive behaviors and communications. Treatment has been limited to limited several therapeutic methods such as speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral intervention. These methods have proven to be intensive, expensive and time-consuming.  Numerous studies have shown traditional martial arts such as Kung Fu, Karate, Taekwondo, Mixed Martial Arts to reduce stereotypic behaviors, improve emotional and social function, and improve cognition and attention.  Starting martial arts such as Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo may be a better way to protect the person’s dignity than a healthcare intervention, avoid labeling, reduce the person’s perception that s/he is “different”, allow for the improvement of symptoms in a less restrictive environment. Most of all the benefit of having your child participate in a sport that other children take for granted is a dream come true for parents.

When you choose Colorado Taekwondo Institute - Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo, you are engaging in a practice that emphasizes overall character development, cognitive development and physical skill development. Patterned movements require a mind and body focus, and this combination is extremely valuable in creating a strong mind-body connection for physical and mental training.An additional benefit of adding Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo into your ASD regimen is that it is fun and rewarding. Many occupational therapy and physical therapy routines are boring and difficult to stick to, as well as expensive.

When practicing Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo, children and adults get to focus on themselves. While participating in class the focus is on their own movements, their own progress, and their physical and cognitive achievements. As students take visual and verbal cues to reproduce the movements as shown by their instructors, they are required to pay attention and try their best, which is all within their control to accomplish. With each action that repeats the movements from the last, they can progress at their own pace and enjoy accomplishments along the way.

If you’re looking for a new activity to improve upon symptoms for yourself or someone else with autism spectrum disorder, we hope you’ll give Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo a try.