Tae Kwon Do students break boards to prove a technique works: the right part of the foot or hand, aimed at the right spot, with full focus. At Chung TKD in New Hyde Park, breaking is one of six things every belt asks more of, alongside forms, technique, sparring drills, terminology and attendance.
What does breaking teach my child?
It teaches that technique matters more than strength. A board gives an honest answer: a kick that lands with the wrong part of the foot, or off target, does not break it. When the technique is right, it does.
Is breaking part of earning belts?
Yes. Breaking is one of the six areas each belt asks more of, together with attendance, forms, technique, sparring drills and terminology. The bar fits the child. A gold belt at five and a gold belt at ten are not asked to do the same thing.
Why do students yell when they break?
The yell is called a kihap: a short, sharp shout at the moment of the strike that times the breath and shows focus.
Can my child break a board at a birthday party?
Yes. At a Chung TKD birthday party, the birthday child rehearses a short demo and a board break with a black belt instructor about two weeks before, then breaks the board in front of everyone they invited. See what happens at a Tae Kwon Do birthday party.
Should my child practice breaking at home?
No. Breaking belongs in class, with instructors. At home, practice forms, stances, kicks in the air and Korean words instead.
What is breaking called in Korean?
Gyeokpa. Your child will hear many Korean words in class, and learning them is part of the terminology each belt asks for.
Questions parents ask
Why do Tae Kwon Do students break boards?
To show a technique works: the right striking surface, on target, with full focus.
Does every belt include breaking?
Yes. Breaking is one of the six areas each belt asks more of, and the bar fits the child's age.
Can my child practice breaking at home?
No. Breaking stays in class, with instructors.