Tae Kwon Do teaches many different forms, moves, and lessons. But one part of Tae Kwon Do that sticks with people the most is the board breaking. Breaking boards is a common demonstration in Tae Kwon Do that can boost a child’s confidence and highlight their progress in martial arts. It is fun, memorable, and a great way to show how far your child has come.

Still, it sounds scary. What happens if your child doesn’t hit the board hard enough? What happens if your child is easily injured? Will they get hurt?

Board Breaking Safety

Rest assured, your child is safe with board breaking. Every precaution is taken to make sure they won’t be hurt, and every step is taken to make sure there is as little risk for injury as possible.

It starts with the boards. Young children are given extra thin boards to make sure that board breaking cannot hurt them. As they get older, the boards do become thicker, but they’re still geared to the age range of your child.

We also extensively train in board breaking techniques. Children learn how to put force into the punch or kick and how to make sure they’re hitting the board in the right spot to minimize pain and discomfort.

Instructors also hold the boards in such a way – at least when your child is younger – that the most painful part of the boards are blocked by their hands. Whoever is holding the board will make sure that the board is held in such a way that it decreases the chances of injury even further.

Lastly, remember that as your child learns Tae Kwon Do, they are building strength and speed in the very same muscle groups that are needed for board breaking. Before we even move towards testing, your child has practiced in such a way that their punch and kick muscles are stronger than they were previously, and getting stronger with each board breaking session.

Can Injuries Happen?

Injuries can, in theory, happen at any time with anything in Tae Kwon Do, just as they can in any sport. As your child gets older and uses stronger boards, the risk of minor injuries like bruising may increase slightly, but again, we teach technique and strengthen muscles, so the likelihood of injury is reduced.

Your Child Can Break Boards!

With proper instruction, supervision, and age-appropriate materials, the risk of injury from board breaking in Tae Kwon Do is minimized. Emphasizing technique over force and gradually progressing through skill levels ensures that children can safely enjoy the benefits of this practice.

Board breaking can be a valuable part of a young child’s martial arts training, promoting physical development, confidence, and discipline. If you’re ready for your child to confidently break boards and learn other martial arts techniques, sign up today with Master P’s World Class Tae Kwon Do.