Families Come Together for Health, Fun and Fitness

There’s a new movement taking place on weeknights across the community. Families across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie gather in school and community halls three nights a week, to increase their fitness and learn new skills. ‘FAMILY Taekwondo’ brings a fresh focus on just that – family fun! Family groups in particular, are embracing the self-defence classes, in increasing numbers. Mums, dads, sisters and brothers are joining together and participate at their own skill level, with just a little rivalry evident on promotion nights.

Classes have been developed to provide inclusive, non-contact instruction in self-defence, with highly qualified trainers. Chief instructors, Richard and Denise Garside, ensure there is a strong emphasis on the wellbeing of all participants, from the very young to the more mature. The halls buzz with action and enthusiasm as participants go through their patterns and drills in this traditional form of Taekwondo.

Proud dad Rohan and daughter and son, Sakura 13 and Oban 11 are keen participants every week. Sakura was the first to take up the martial arts, but it was not long before her dad and brother decided that they would rather be in on the action, than watch from the sidelines.

Rohan says that he really enjoys the friendly, inclusive atmosphere and that it was the name of the centre ‘FAMILY Taekwondo’ that really reflects the experience for all. He enjoys the way that Richard and Denise want to pass on their knowledge and bring out the best in each student. He said that whether students are 5 years old or 55 years old, the centre ensures that everyone’s needs are met.

Nurse and mum, Rachel said that she has seen the confidence grow in her 11-year-old twins Emma and Sophie and that she really enjoys spending the time, training with the girls. ‘They had never broken boards before and now they have done it twice in front of everyone, because of the supportive encouragement they receive. It’s a comfortable and fun experience for all. I’ve seen lots of families join up over the time I’ve been here.’

FAMILY Taekwondo classes take place at New Lambton on Monday nights and Eleebana Public School Hall on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Complimentary beginner classes are available.

Visit website www.familytaekwondo.com.au or call 0422 050 200 for further information

Rachel and daughters, Emma and Sophie practise their patterns