Taekwondo, usually thought of by most people as just a way of fighting, and as being a brutal sport. People consider it brutal because of all the kicks, punches, throws, and arm and wrist locks; they usually aren't open minded enough to see the way it benefits people especially children. Though a majority of it includes fighting, taekwondo also helps a person with self-confidence, self-defense and discipline.
            Developing self-confidence is an important aspect of learning taekwondo. Through gaining self-confidence the student learns to believe in his/her abilities. In believing in his/her abilities the students performance would be affected in and out of the dojo. As the student's self-confidence rises, so will his/her attitude. Once the students' confidence begins to rise their attitude, in general, rather it is at work, school, or at home usually improves. In time he/she will develop an indomitable spirit. The student should always be willing to keep trying as he/she progresses through the belt levels. As the student rises through the belt ranks, the self-confidence he/she develops in the dojo will benefit him/her throughout their life.
            The thought of learning self-defense is usually the main reason for people to join taekwondo. In addition to learning self-defense, taekwondo is also very demanding physically. Warms up exercises in taekwondo usually consist of push-ups, sit-ups, squats, stretches, and crunches. Self-control is mandatory when learning taekwondo. Without self-control the student can seriously injure other students or his/her-self.