Cooler temperatures and leaves turning colors signal that the fall season has settled in. While the lack of blazing temperatures may not seem to illicit the same need to quench your thirst, it’s vital to remember the importance of hydration during cold weather months.

First of all, not drinking enough water affects both your physical and mental capabilities. Just a slight percentage decrease in your water intake can lead to brain fog and a loss of mental sharpness. The physical can follow, from feeling thirsty to inability to achieve tasks. Incidentally, by the time you realize you’re thirsty, it’s already reached a low point.

Although a variety of other liquids boast that they can quench your thirst, it’s not the same as having water. In fact, ironically, some drinks can cause you to lose fluids. Among them, coffee and caffeinated drinks. You can wind up in worse shape and less hydrated after gulping a large Coke.

Don’t let the cool temps fool you. Although you may not be sweating profusely like you would in mid-June, you’re still losing fluids. Keep up your water intake, and don’t be lulled into a false sense of security. By being educated and informed as far as what your body needs, you’ll keep the fall season fun!

And while we’re discussing the Autumn season, here are a couple of fun things coming up at Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do:

The 2018 Ha Tae Kyung Taekwondo Championship will kick off the fall tournament season, on November 10. A week later, Master Shim’s 3^rd Annual Fall Family Festival will be an exciting time for all ages.

Get more details at atlantatkd.com.

Muscle strain and muscle sprain are often used interchangeably. In some instances, they can share similar symptoms. Strains and sprains are, however, different injuries with different diagnosis and varied methods of treatment.

• A sprain is defined as a stretching or tearing of ligaments
• The stretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon is a strain
• Both injuries have the same initial treatment: rest, ice, elevation
• Symptoms of both can include pain, swelling, and limited movement to the area
• Numbness, pain or difficulty moving are reasons to see a doctor for further treatment
• Fatigue, poor conditioning, and improper warm up can all contribute to strains and sprains happening
• Stretching and strengthening exercises can help out with prevention
• Use proper form and technique when engaged in activity

Did You Know ….

The U.S. Open International Tae Kwon Do Hanmadang held its 10^th Annual event in July. This year’s event hosted close to 1300 Tae Kwon Do enthusiasts from around the world, and offers them an outlet to showcase their skills. Here are a few details about the event:

• The first contest was held in 1992 in Denver.
• Participants showcase their skills in traditional forms, creative forms, creative board breaking, power breaking and demonstration team events.
• Practitioners from China, Taiwan, Korea and other European and Pan American countries are represented.
• A world-famous Tae Kwon Do Demonstration Team performed at this year’s Opening Ceremonies.
• Grandparents, parents, children, aunts and uncles can form teams.
• Other host cities include Colorado Springs and Chicago.

In Step With . . . Master Tyger Morgan

At the tender age of 4, Master Tyger Morgan began his Tae Kwon Do journey. “I had a lot of energy as a kid. My mom felt Tae Kwon Do was a great way to use that energy in a very positive way.” It was indeed a positive way for him to use that energy, and 22 years later he is still integrally involved in the sport he loves. An instructor since age 13, Master Morgan now serves as the Head Master of the Fayetteville location of Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do. He is a man of varied talents, who enjoys longboarding in nice weather, and hanging out with his dog, Harley.

Here’s more about our instructor, Master Tyger Morgan.

What is your belt level?

I am a 5^th Dan black belt.

Why did you decide to take classes at Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do?

As a child, my family and I moved around a lot which meant I was always going to different Tae Kwon Do schools. Out of all of those schools, I felt Master Shim's was the best because of his energy and passion he put towards every single student in every class.

Did you have any problems/issues Tae Kwon Do helped you overcome?

I was bullied as a child in elementary school. Tae Kwon Do gave me the confidence to talk to my teachers and parents about what was going on, and inevitably stand up to my bullies.

What has Tae Kwon Do done for your confidence? Self-esteem?

As a child, I was very shy and quiet.  Tae Kwon Do gave me the confidence and self-esteem to become more outgoing and comfortable speaking not only to one person, but to crowds of people.

What are some of your Tae Kwon Do accomplishments and achievements?

I have received Medals in National and International tournaments, such as the Junior Olympics, and the U.S. Open. I have also participated on demonstration teams, performing in front of thousands of people.

What changes have you seen in the students?

Tae Kwon Do helps students in many different ways. It is not just a hobby or a sport, it is a lifestyle. It helps students of all ages overcome many different personal challenges; whether it is learning to deal with anger, lose weight, be more confident, or learning to protect oneself.

Why would you recommend Tae Kwon Do to others?

I would recommend Tae Kwon Do to others because it helps them become a better version of themselves.

Whether it’s playing basketball or collecting canned goods for the needy, Andrew Fleming gives 100-percent to every endeavor he’s involved with. Tae Kwon Do is no different. “He loves practicing his Tae Kwon Do moves, consistently. He also gets a lot of joy from learning the Korean terms, and becoming more proficient in another language,” says his mom LaKeisha. In fact, she loves the changes she has seen in Andrew since he began classes in the Fayetteville location last November. “Andrew enjoys discipline and structure. I love the way Tae Kwon Do has given him a positive and productive way to express those traits.” The 11-year-old is excited to have just become a blue belt and looks forward to continuing to ascend the ranks.

Here’s more from our student, Andrew Fleming.

Did you have any problems/issues that Tae Kwon Do helped you overcome?

My physical endurance and stamina were very weak before I started Tae Kwon Do. Now they are excellent.

What has Tae Kwon Do done for your confidence? Self-esteem? 

I feel more confident that I can protect and defend myself, and I feel better about myself.

Is it good exercise? 

Yes, it exercises the body and the mind.

Why do you like Tae Kwon Do? Why would you tell another kid that it is fun to do?

I most enjoy getting to advance to new belt colors. It helps you know how to defend yourself and be more confident that you can keep yourself safe.

Why do you like taking classes at Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do?

The instructors are excellent and help you make sure that you know exactly what to do and how to do it.

Tae Kwon Do is a Korean martial art, and as such pays homage to the Korean flag. Here are a few interesting facts about the Korean Flag (Taegukki):

• The flag has three parts: the red and blue circle in the center, the white background, and four trigrams, with one located in each corner of the flag.
• The white background means peace.
• “Taeguk” is the name for the red and blue circle in the center. That’s the origin of all things in the universe.
• The red part of “Taeguk” is called “Yang” and describes all positive aspects of balance that is typical for the symbol. The blue part is called “Eum” and represents all negative aspects.
• “Kwe” is the name for the four trigrams at the corners. It also represents the concept of opposites and balance.
• For the Korean people, their flag is a source of pride and inspiration.