Testimonial from Black Belt Phillip Blackman

Master's Corner

"Injuries in the Martial Arts" by Master Phillip Blackman (Blackman TKD, New Mexico)

Taekwondo is typically associated with minor injuries: sprains, strains and swelling. On April 20th, I had to have surgery to repair my shock absorber in my right knee. I thought that I would share a 5 step plan to help minimize our exposure to severe injuries.

1: Warm up properly before you begin practice or enter competitions. This includes walking, jogging, jumping rope, or a variety of light aerobic exercises that will increase blood flow and oxygen to your muscles.
2: Cool down after practice. Return your body to a resting state by gradually doing stretching, deep breathing, and other non-aerobic exercises. It's the best way to avoid stiffness and pain and prevent injury brought on by a lack of conditioning.
3: It is our duty and as black belts to teach students proper "form." We must be able to adjust a student's body posture and movements so that they are executed with as little stress to the body as possible, especially when they are learning new techniques.
4: I have worn knee braces, as preventative. I enjoy feeling the added support. If you have any weaknesses, I strongly encourage braces or wraps until you are healed, or if it is chronic.
5: Weight train apart from your Taekwondo training. Your focus should be to help increase your body's natural support of joints and bones to prevent breaks, strains, and sprains.

I wish everyone continued success and good health and be sure to train smart!