The seniors still practising taekwondo in their 70s and 80s

Key Concepts

• Senior Taekwondo Training: Re-engagement of long-term black belt holders in Taekwondo practice.
• Camaraderie & Health: The dual benefits of group training for older practitioners.
• Adaptation & Modification: Adjusting training to accommodate age-related physical limitations.
• Lifelong Practice: The commitment to Taekwondo beyond competitive retirement.
• Physical & Mental Wellbeing: The positive impact of Taekwondo on overall health and spirit.

Re-Engaging Senior Taekwondo Practitioners: A Focus on Health and Camaraderie

The core focus of this initiative, spearheaded by the Singapore Chuando Federation, is to encourage senior Taekwondo practitioners – those holding a black belt for over 10 years but who have ceased regular training – to return to the art. The program aims to foster camaraderie amongst these individuals and promote continued physical health. Training sessions are held weekly at the national training center in Wo, providing a dedicated space for this demographic.

Longevity in Taekwondo: Personal Journeys & Challenges

Several individuals share their experiences, highlighting the enduring passion for Taekwondo even with advancing age. One practitioner recalls obtaining his black belt approximately 55 years ago and resuming training at age 65, now continuing at 84. He emphasizes the “robust” nature of the training, which includes running, stretching, and fundamental kicking and punching drills.

Another practitioner details the initial difficulties of returning to training after a 40-year hiatus. He describes losing touch with footwork and flexibility, making the first sessions “very tough” and almost leading to abandonment. However, he now reports improved health and wellbeing as a result of consistent training. This illustrates the importance of perseverance and adaptation.

Adapting to Physical Changes & Maintaining Motivation

A key theme is the necessity of adapting training to accommodate age-related physical decline. One practitioner, a former international competitor who recently retired after 13 years of representing Singapore and achieving a podium finish at the World Taekwondo Championship, explicitly states, “As you age, it’s different already. Your body degenerated. So, you’re not like before, not young anymore.” Despite numerous injuries, she remains committed, stating, “I will continue as long as my body enables me. I do what I can.” This sentiment reflects a shift from striving for peak performance to maintaining functionality and enjoyment.

The video contrasts this dedication with the societal expectation that older individuals should pursue gentler activities like Tai Chi, which the practitioners actively reject, preferring to continue with a martial art. A common observation is that inactivity leads to physical decline: “Everybody know that you know once you once you don't train you get lazy that's it.” The practitioner notes observing friends who have become physically debilitated due to inactivity, reinforcing the importance of continued movement.

The Holistic Benefits of Continued Practice

The benefits of continued Taekwondo practice are presented as multi-faceted. Beyond physical health – maintaining strength, flexibility, and overall fitness – the program fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. One practitioner states, “It’s kept me healthy. It’s kept me strong. Kept me flexible.” Furthermore, it provides an opportunity for intergenerational connection, becoming “a way of sharing with the young, the middle-aged and the not so young.”

A Philosophy of Lifelong Engagement

The overarching message is that Taekwondo is not simply a sport or a skill, but a lifelong pursuit. As one practitioner eloquently puts it, “Forever tondo keeps you young in spirit.” This encapsulates the idea that continued engagement in a passion, even with modifications, contributes significantly to overall wellbeing and a positive outlook on life. The commitment is unwavering: “As long as I’m still healthy and alive, I will keep on doing tondo.”

Technical Terms:

• Chuando: (Likely a transliteration of a specific style or association within Taekwondo in Singapore)
• Taekwondo: A Korean martial art characterized by its dynamic kicking techniques.
• Black Belt: A rank in Taekwondo signifying a high level of proficiency.
• Footwork: The techniques and movements used to maintain balance and positioning during combat.
• Podium Finish: Achieving one of the top three positions in a competition (gold, silver, or bronze).