The MIT Sport Taekwondo Club has been attracting students for more than 20 years as an outlet from the rigors of academic life. The club, which is one of the largest club sports teams at MIT with about 100 members, offers students a chance to learn a new skill, get in shape, and compete in tournaments. But more than that, the club provides students with a sense of community and support.
“The recurring thing we hear from graduating students in the club is that taekwondo is something that MIT students are allowed to be bad at and then learn to get better,” says head coach and instructor Dan Chuang. “That’s important because high levels of performance are always expected for MIT students, but this is something they’re supposed to be bad at in the beginning.”
Chuang says that the club’s welcoming atmosphere and supportive environment allows students to learn and grow at their own pace. “We’re not trying to churn out black belts,” he says. “We’re trying to help students find something they enjoy and that’s good for them.”
In addition to the physical and mental benefits of taekwondo, the club also provides students with a strong sense of community. “The team is really tight-knit,” says recent club president Jeffery Li ’23. “We all support each other, both in and out of the gym.”
Li says that the club has been a great way to meet new people and make friends. “I’ve made some of my closest friends through the club,” he says. “We’re always there for each other, no matter what.”
If you’re looking for a way to clear your head, get in shape, and meet new people, the MIT Sport Taekwondo Club is a great option. The club is open to students of all skill levels, and it offers a variety of classes and activities to fit everyone’s needs. So what are you waiting for? Come check it out!
Source:
https://news.mit.edu/2023/taekwondo-mit-sport-club-0613
