Reclaiming Equipping And Directing Youth Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Organization
Why Taekwondo?
Taekwondo, the “art of the foot and the fist,” is the world’s most popular martial art and has been an Olympic event since 2000. Taekwondo is known for its emphasis on kicking techniques, which distinguishes it from other martial arts such as Karate or the southern styles of Kung Fu. The rationale is that the leg is the longest and strongest weapon a martial artist has and thus kicks have the greatest potential to execute powerful strikes without successful retaliation. (This fact merely clarifies an advantage of Taekwondo over other martial arts; it should not be taken as a statement that Taekwondo is better than these other forms.)
Taekwondo as a martial art is popular with people of both genders and all ages. Taekwondo develops strength, speed, balance, flexibility, and stamina. An example of the union of mental and physical discipline is the breaking of wooden boards, which requires both the physical mastery of the technique and the concentration to fully focus one’s power.
The Korean system of Taekwondo utilized at the R.E.A.D.Y. Academy assures the traceability and validity of R.E.A.D.Y.’s programming and certifications. This unique and comprehensive system brings a wide range of benefits to the student. Taekwondo is the national sport in the Republic of Korea and enjoys widespread popularity there.
How we help.
The academic impact of R.E.A.D.Y. Taekwondo was recently documented in Ms. Carla Howe’s fifth grade class at the MLK Academy in Benton Harbor. Over the winter of 2010/2011, Ms. Howe’s class saw an improvement in grades ranging from 50% up to 82% in a five month period. In addition, disciplinary referrals have dropped by more than 50% from the previous year.
“The student’s respect has grown for all adults, including teachers. I have had fewer disruptions and more learning going on in my classroom that I can directly attribute to the Taekwondo training of my students.” Ms. Carla Howe
Teachers are actually empowered by the students’ desire to participate in R.E.A.D.Y. Taekwondo. Report cards must be signed by the parents and teachers and are then publicly reviewed with Grandmaster Smith at each period’s Belt Ceremony.
In addition to the academic improvement of Ms. Howe’s 24 MLK Academy students they have seen an average 69% increase in sit ups, 86% increase in pushups and a 7 minute increase in the average time run over the same five month period. Other similar studies of R.E.A.D.Y. participants have shown an 80% reduction in obesity as well as a 200% increase in exercise. The programming is at its most effective with students from kindergarten through sixth grade, although marked improvement is found in virtually all age groups.
Learn More
Each program consists of its own weekly theme and activities, so your child has something new to anticipate with each week.
Volunteer With Us
You’ll be able to utilize or recycle supplies you already have at home to complete lesson activities. We’ll provide you with alternative options as well.
Donate
Our programs are curated for two different age groups, so every lesson offers the appropriate level of engagement for your little ones.
