Bespoke Martial Arts Training: A 66 Year-Olds Turning Kick Journey Continues

When my 66-year-old client decided to improve his turning kick in taekwondo, he embarked on a 10-hour bespoke martial arts personal training course with me. This journey began after a trial lesson where we identified key areas for improvement. Since then, we have focused on refining his technique, especially the chambering of his leg and movement while in the chambered position. This post shares insights from our sessions and highlights how tailored training can benefit martial artists of all ages and levels.

"New Blog Post: Discover the Inspiring Martial Arts Journey of a 66-Year-Old Martial Artist Embracing the Turning Kick."

Understanding the Turning Kick and Its Challenges

The turning kick is a fundamental yet complex technique in taekwondo. It requires balance, timing, flexibility, and precise control. For someone in their mid-sixties, these demands can feel even more challenging. My client’s goal was to gain better control and confidence in his kick to pass his yellow belt test.

In our sessions, we broke down the turning kick into manageable parts. The chambering phase, where the kicking leg is lifted and bent before the strike, is crucial. Many practitioners rush this step or position their leg incorrectly, which affects balance and power. We spent significant time perfecting this position, ensuring his knee was raised to the right height and angle.

How Bespoke Martial Arts Personal Training Makes a Difference

I do not teach taekwondo or any Korean martial art formally, despite starting my own martial arts journey in them during the early 1990s. Instead, I offer bespoke martial arts personal training that adapts to each client’s needs, drawing from a broad range of disciplines and experience.

This outside perspective has proven valuable. For example, my client in Denmark is a high-ranking taekwondo teacher running his own school, and I also work with a teenager who is a British gold medalist at red tag level. These varied experiences help me tailor training that supports specific goals, whether for beginners or advanced practitioners.

For my 66-year-old client, this meant focusing on balance and control rather than just power. We incorporated exercises to strengthen his core and improve his stability during the kick. This approach helped him feel more grounded and confident when practicing in his regular classes.

Practical Steps We Took to Improve the Turning Kick

Here are some key elements we worked on during the course:

• Chambering the Leg Correctly

We practiced lifting the knee to the ideal height and angle. This position allows for a faster, more controlled kick.

• Moving in the Chambered Position

Instead of holding still, we trained him to move smoothly while maintaining the chamber. This helps in real sparring situations where movement is constant.

• Balance and Core Strength

Exercises like single-leg stands and core stability drills were integrated to support better control.

• Slow Motion Drills

Breaking down the kick into slow, deliberate movements helped him understand the mechanics and build muscle memory.

• Feedback and Adjustment

Video analysis and immediate feedback allowed him to see his progress and make corrections in real time.

The Impact of Cross-Training in Martial Arts

Cross-training is a powerful tool in martial arts development. Even though I do not specialize in taekwondo, my background and experience with other martial arts provide fresh insights. This approach helps clients like my 66-year-old student gain new perspectives on their technique.

For example, focusing on body mechanics and balance from other disciplines can improve kicking techniques in taekwondo. Clients often report feeling more confident and controlled after bespoke martial arts personal training sessions, which then translates into better performance in their regular classes.

Progress and Confidence Gained

Since starting the course, my client has shown remarkable improvement. His turning kick is smoother, more balanced, and controlled. He reports feeling more confident during his taekwondo classes and has received positive feedback from his instructors.

This progress highlights the value of personalised training. By addressing his unique needs and focusing on specific technical points, we have built a foundation that supports his ongoing martial arts journey.

Why Bespoke Martial Arts Personal Training Works for All Ages

Age should not be a barrier to martial arts progress. Tailored training respects individual limitations while pushing boundaries safely. For older adults, this means emphasizing joint health, balance, and controlled movement.

Bespoke martial arts personal training allows for:

• Customised pacing

• Focus on injury prevention

• Strengthening weak areas

• Building confidence through achievable goals

  
  

My client’s journey is a clear example of how personalized coaching can unlock potential at any stage of life.

Bespoke Martial Arts Training