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Taekwondo is an excellent cross-training discipline that can benefit athletes in many different sports. Its dynamic kicks, lightning-fast punches, and intense cardio workouts can help athletes develop the strength, coordination, and stamina necessary to succeed at their chosen sport. Additionally, Taekwondo can help to develop important mental skills like balance, focus, and strength, making it a valuable addition to any athlete’s workout routine.

Everyone who’s trained in the martial arts knows that the Cobra Kai’s portrayal of the martial arts life is highly dramatized. We decided to look at what’s real, and what’s not, in the Netflix series Cobra Kai.  

Martial artists often generate an impressive and intimidating shout when throwing a kick or strike. In Taekwondo, we call this sound a kihap (sometimes spelled kihup, kiai, or kyup). Yelling forces us to exhale, removing air from our diaphragms and bringing more power and speed to our attacks. It also forces a subsequent inhale, which brings oxygen into our bodies. In tournaments, the powerful yell helps judges to recognize when a strike is landed.  

Taekwondo helps students thrive in tough times. When we are happy and healthy, it is easy to be on our best behavior: kind, generous, motivated, disciplined, and productive. But during tough times, stress, anxiety, and disappointments can wear us down. When martial artists tap into the inner resources they develop through Taekwondo training, they make the best of difficult situations.