The Benefits of Training at a Martial Arts School

By Mark Scott, 4th dan 

What is different about martial arts compared with other sports and exercises? All sporting activities have the benefit of providing exercise. Martial arts have more benefits that other sports don’t provide. The benefits extend and change across the different ages engaged in a martial arts school. Benefits for children might not be as important to an adult in martial arts. Similarly, the benefits that an adult receives might not be necessary in a developing child.

For the young child, the benefits are less about the fitness and self-defense, but focuses more on discipline and control. As described in this article from Colorado Taekwondo Institute (The Best in Preschool Martial Arts 2024), the children will learn most of the same techniques as teens and adults. Many of the same details will be enforced, but the focus for the younger children will be on body control, mental fortitude and self-discipline. The younger student will gain self-confidence and benefits in their grades at school and behavior at home.

One article from the Colorado Taekwondo Institute website (Morgan, H 2016) details the eight benefits children can get from martial arts classes. As martial arts require practice to get better, martial arts encourage physical activity to get better and progress. Martial arts also increase self-esteem and encourage social interaction and teamwork which are important to the development of a child as they grow up. Martial arts also helps children learn respect and the ability to focus and concentrate as needed. Another important benefit is non-violent conflict resolution. Learning to control anger and find ways to solve problems outside of fighting. And especially at Colorado Taekwondo Institute, the benefit of the educational development through the stages of progressing with the training and reaching goals.

Martial arts also benefit kids with ADHD. In the article by Michael Lara, M.D. (Lara M, n.d.), found that kids with ADHD involved with a martial arts school finished more of their homework. The kids were better prepared for classes in school. The kids showed improvement in their grades. Other improvements were seen as they tended to break fewer rules overall and jumped out of their seats less often than before the martial arts classes.

Adults are looking to get into shape, to learn self-defense skills or joining a martial arts class to try something new. Some might use exercise as a means to relieve stress, but those in martial arts classes have a proven method for stress release.  In one study (Johnstone, A 2018) adults who participated in martial arts for three to six months were shown to have reduced depression symptoms, reduced levels of stress and higher self-esteem.  The adults were also able to manage stress better after prolonged martial arts classes.

Another important benefit found in practicing at a martial arts school was found in the same study. Practicing martial arts increases the ability to retain and restore memories. The martial arts students were found to be able to memorize and recall complex sequences better than the control groups. As martial artists have to memorize many moves and sequences as part of training, it would make sense that a martial artist would excel in this area.

Many studies (Naves-Bittencourt 2015) detail the effectiveness of classes at a martial arts school as engaging the brain in ways that enhance the physical and mental abilities. The effectiveness of martial arts as an exercise has an increased health benefit over other forms of exercise. The studies indicate a better level of stress management and overall better quality of life.

 

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The Best in Preschool Martial Arts 2024, Colorado Taekwondo Institute website, accessed 20 May 2024, <https://coloradotaekwondo.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-best-in-preschool-martial-arts.html>.

Morgan, H 2016, 8 Reason Your Child Should Join a Martial Arts Program, accessed 10 May 2024, <https://coloradotaekwondo.blogspot.com/2016/02/8-reason-your-child-should-join-martial.html>

Lara, M n.d, The Exercise Prescription, accessed 10 May 2024, <https://chadd.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/ATTN_06_12_Exercise.pdf>

Johnstone, A 2018, Martial arts offers brain-boosting benefits for all ages, research finds, accessed 20 May, 2024, <https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/healthy-living/martial-arts-physical-mental-benefits-health-exercise-tai-chi-karate-a8342756.html>

Naves-Bittencourt, W et al 2015, Martial arts: mindful exercise to combat stress, accessed 20 May, 2024, <https://www.eurjhm.com/index.php/eurjhm/article/view/355>

CTI: Exceptional Quality if You're Looking for a Karate School

By Lily Laird, Teen Red Belt

There are a plethora of different martial arts schools in the Denver area, all of which are very similar. Some practice taekwondo, some practice karate, some practice jiu-jitsu, etc. It can be overwhelming to find a martial arts school out of the many being offered. There is so much information to consider and take in, and many schools focus on different aspects of martial arts. Lots of these schools only focus on the more “flashy” aspects of martial arts, focusing less on teaching the basic skills needed for successful self-defense. However, out of the many karate schools, Colorado Taekwondo Institute holds fast as a karate school that welcomes all people of all ages and truly gives students the skills they need to be successful in not only self-defense situations, but in various aspects of life. 

To begin, the idea of CTI being a taekwondo school can be overwhelming, as taekwondo isn’t as commonly heard of as karate is. However, the terms are so similar that they can often be used interchangeably. The only major difference between the two umbrella terms for similar types of martial arts is that karate originated in China and Japan, while taekwondo originated in Korea. In taekwondo, students will become familiar with Korean terms and numbers, while, in karate schools, Japanese will be used. However, the two forms of martial arts originated in around the same time period in relatively the same area.

As well, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute teaches Moo Sul Kwan taekwondo, which was originally brought over from Korea to the United States in 1969. This may seem overwhelming at first, as many traditional karate schools can seem extreme. However, CTI not only teaches equality and inclusion of all people who would like to learn self-control and self-defense, but has a supportive environment in the spirit of improvement and fun. Instructors are patient and well-trained, having gone through the same classes beginning students will go through. In all, CTI has produced over 350 1st degree black belts in Moo Sul Kwan taekwondo.

With 5 campuses in Colorado and many big events throughout the year, students get to meet and learn with new people of similar belt rank. CTI offers many events throughout the year, including camps, expos, seminars, and symposiums where students can learn from different instructors on specific topics. 

Finally, CTI also successfully teaches students many different skills necessary for a prosperous and peaceful life. For example, our motto is “Ho-Shin,” a Korean phrase meaning “self-control before self-defense,” which speaks volumes about the example we set for ourselves and for all students. We teach students how to manage anger, how to resolve conflicts peacefully and respectfully, how to treat others with patience, dignity, and respect, and how to, of course, defend themselves. Simply put, the motto reflects the values taught in CTI; how to control oneself and to only resort to self-defense, which is taught in class, if necessary. 

All in all, there are many karate schools out there, and choosing just one can be overwhelming trying to find martial arts schools and exploring the different forms of martial arts. However, out of the many schools offered, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute has a supportive and tight-knit community and environment, offers many different events, and teaches many different important values and morals. If one is looking for or interested in pursuing martial arts, CTI is a supportive, sincere organization open to all people of all ages. 

Karate Lessons - Martial Arts Classes at the CTI

By Peyton Brauch, 4th dan

Many people here in Colorado are looking to get themselves or a family member involved with some type of martial arts classes, but often don't know what is the best to choose. Often times people look into Karate lessons because it seems to be a popular sport for families, both kids and adults. But what really is the best martial arts to practice?

Karate and Taekwondo are fairly similar martial arts. Karate originates from Japan and tends to have more hand techniques in the martial art; while Taekwondo is a Korean martial art which tends to focuses more on kicks. They are pretty similar, and in fact, some people call Taekwondo Korean Karate. 

While both martial arts can be good for your body and mind, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is right in the Denver area. Established in 1983, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is one of the highest rated martial arts schools in the area. When looking into a martial art for yourself or a family member, it's more important to look at the quality of the program versus the martial art being taught. 

Taekwondo has many beneficial classes available for students of any age. If you are looking to try Korean karate classes, give the Colorado Taekwondo Institute a try. There are classes focusing on every age group and instructors that are dedicated to helping you reach black belt and achieve your personal goals in self-control, discipline, perseverance, physical fitness, and confidence. 

This organization has been around Colorado for over 40 years and has been helping students of all ages and abilities achieve their goals inside and outside of their martial arts classes. With locations in Arvada/Westminster, Golden, Lakewood, Littleton/Morrison, and conifer/Evergreen, there is sure to be a convenient location near you. The CTI has many opportunities for learning outside of normal classes which include the Summer Expos, Summer Camps, Day Camps, Tournaments, and more. 

If you are searching to try Karate lessons and you try classes at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute, instructors and fellow students will make sure that you are welcomed and that you are learning at your pace. Instructors take the time to break down new moves and concepts you learn in class to provide you with a clear understanding of anything and everything learned through our program. Classes are circulated on getting students to, and even beyond, personal goals while also focusing on the mental and spirit related aspects of martial arts. Try out martial arts classes at any Colorado Taekwondo Institute anytime and reach out to learn more about what the CTI has for you.

Waiting to be Uncovered: Littleton CTI

By Irene Kim, brown belt

You've decided to live in Littleton, Colorado, nestled close to the foothills enjoying the beautiful Colorado weather.  Life seems pretty good but perhaps there is something missing.  You decide that you would like to try something new, to push yourself and see what more the area of Littleton has to offer.  You never knew how meaningful life would become after walking through the doors of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI) right in your Littleton neighborhood.

Located on Simms Street, right between Bowles and Belleview, the Littleton location is easy to get to, and is far from the traffic of Kipling or even Wadsworth.

Not only will you experience the most physical fitness you never thought possible, you will literally be retraining and strengthening your brain, mind, and spirit.  The instructors at the Littleton Taekwondo location and all campuses of CTI will support and encourage you every step of the way and you will feel how they care for you as you attain numerous and never-ending goals.  As you learn the fascinating and intruiging Korean Martial Art of Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo (the Korean Art of smashing with the bare feet and hands), you will build strength and confidence you never knew you had.

The tenets you will learn include Self-control, Courtesy, Integrity, Perserverance and Indominable Spirit.  Your training will instill these characteristics into every part of your life and will inspire others around you as they observe your improving strength. Others may question how you attained such respect in the Littleton and Colorado community.  As you advance in your training, the traditions and instruction methods will continually be demonstrated through you to improve our society.

Join us at the Littleton location of CTI and prepare to enjoy the best life has to offer, surrounded by the continual positivity seen in all your fellow students, adult or child age, as everyone advances and enjoys each and every precious day we are given.

Why I'm glad I found the CTI on my hunt for Karate Schools

By Irene Kim, Brown Belt

If you are searching for a karate school in the west Denver Metro Area, you may not realize what you have found. Experiencing the intense and rewarding practice of Taekwondo at any of the campuses of The Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI) is likely to change you and your family's life.

One frequently arrives at their campus of the CTI tired, stressed out from the work or school day, struggling to find the energy to even open the door. But after class, that same individual is guaranteed to leave refreshed, energized, happy and completely de-stressed.  Don't we all want to feel like this? Check out this martial art if you seeking a karate school in Lakewood, Littleton, Arvada, Westminster, Golden, Conifer or Bailey.

Kids and adults in martial arts learn valuable life lessons practicing Taekwondo at the CTI. Taekwondo ('the art of smashing with the bare feet and hands' in Korean) is different from karate ('empty hand' in Japanese), yet in many aspects they are similar. Anyone seeking to improve their lives and strengthen their mind, body and spirit should experience Taekwondo with the CTI. Each campus strives to provide a solid educational foundation to instructing Taekwondo techniques and forms.

In addition to awesome physical training, students complete written homework monthly, instilling such concepts as integrity, courage, courtesy, respect, perseverance, and having indomitable spirit. Indeed these are the tenets of Taekwondo with CTI and all students are required to represent them in society.

If you are seeking to practice a highly respectable martial art, such as taekwondo, kung fu or karate lessons, and meet some of the society's most admirable individuals, try a class at any of the five locations of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. Life will become more meaningful as you gain strength that will carry over into every aspect of your days. End your search for martial arts in Denver here.