Tae Kwon Do!

Elijah started Tae Kwon Do in October and absolutely loves it.  It was the first extra curricular activity that he has ever done that we didn't have to beg and plead to get him out of the house.  He loves going to class, he loves learning his new forms, he loves getting his tips.  Tae Kwon Do seems to be specially made for him -- the curriculum is laid out in distinct chunks, everyone works at their own pace and behavior is closely controlled.  He thrives in the rigorous, regulated atmosphere.  It has also done wonders for his confidence (even in a crowd) and his fitness level. Here are photos that I took throughout one of his mid-November classes last year.

 After warming up, the white belt class were given partners to practice their kicks.  Every drill starts by getting in kicking stance.

Then, they practiced front snap kicks.

Next, they practiced round house kicks.

After that, they practiced white belt board breaking -- foot to foot side kick.

Next, he moved over to Master Kim to practice basic punches and kicks that he would be doing to test for his yellow belt.  The thing that I like the most about these following pictures is that Elijah is practicing his punches and kicks beside Ashley.  Ashley and her two sisters have been taking classes with Elijah ever since.  We love those girls and their sweet mother.  :)

Next, Elijah and Ashley practiced their white belt form with Master Kim.

Finally, Elijah earned his tip at the end of class for his hard work.