The following have been submitted by students as an insight to the reasons why they find themselves doing Tae Kwon Do:

Sue Beecher, I am a 1st dan black belt and an assistant instructor in Crediton.

I started Tae Kwon Do in November 2000 when my son, then 6 years old, decided he wanted to join a martial arts club, I think he saw himself as a bit of a ninja. After watching a session I decided I wanted to have a go and have never looked back. We both passed our black belt grading in October 2007 and although he has put his training on hold for a while, I have continued and hope to take my second dan grading next year.

I have competed at various competitions but really enjoy officiating at them; the English Championship at Telford this year, was my first 'big' one and I think I was just as nervous as the competitors!

I think TKD is for everyone, not just the young and fit. Although I may go home after a session aching, I always feel happy. Not only does it make your body work, it also makes your brain work; learning new patterns, set sparring techniques and Korean words and phrases.

Is Tae Kwon Do for you? Crediton is a very friendly club, with people of all ages attending, so why not come and join us and have a go.

Paul as a parent of two girls I had concerns about their safety and felt that a martial art was the way forward. After enrolling them at Crediton TAGB I sat and watched them for a number of weeks and after much "nagging" I also joined. That was 3 years ago and I have to say that Tae Kwon Do has brought much laughter to our household, with the girls offering me instrucion on patterns. I'm not the best coordinated person.

Is Tae Kwon Do for you? Well all I would say is give it go, for once being nagged changed my outlook on life.

Jake (age 19) as a Rugby player (wing) / runner and swimmer I was surprised that my father (49) could touch his toes and I could not. He and my younger brother both did Tae Kwon Do so the challenge was set and I joined the Crediton club, I am now a red tag and training towards my black belt. Since joining the club I have attended two TAGB summer camps held in Cornwall, these camps are lead by instructors with many years experience their instruction in ancient techniques has been amazing.

As I head towards University in London I will be enrolling in a club close to the Uni, and with a Naval career after Uni I am looking to gain sponsorship and represent my country at Tae Kwon Do.

I would like to thank all the instructors for their amazing assistance both at class level and also whilst competing in the World Championships, a special thank you to Mr Bazley for all the information on available clubs in London. Although I look forward to being back with the Crediton club during my terms breaks.

Is Tae Kwon Do for you? I'm fitter than I have ever been, have a great circle of friends within the TAGB club's and would recommend Tae Kwon Do as a way to stay fit and safe. I never realised my dad was so fit so what ever your age or ability it's worth a try.