Branch Instructor
InstructorTamara Cain
4th Dan Black Belt
Canberra ACT Region – Phillip Dojang
How long have you been training in Taekwondo? And what got you started?
I wanted to do martial arts as a child, but didn’t have the opportunity, so I started training as an adult and have never looked back. Initially I joined because I wanted to learn a cool skill, just like I’d seen in the movies, and this is definitely something taekwondo offers. But I have also gotten so much more out of training including skills, fitness, and great friendships.
Highlights of your Taekwondo success?
I have set many training goals over the years and have been excited whenever I achieve one. Whether it be learning or improving a technique, demonstrating in front of the class, getting promoted, becoming an Instructor, they have all had such a positive impact in my life. I also have an ongoing medical condition that hinders my ability to do high impact and high intensity activities. While I have to be careful with my training, a medical condition does not necessarily have to be a barrier to achieving your goals.
Describe your first black belt grading, and what it took to get you there?
My black belt grading was nerve-wracking, exciting, and everything in between. But I knew I had trained hard and so even though I was nervous I was also confident that I was ready to grade. I had two friends come and watch, and it was great to be able to show them what I had achieved. In short, it was awesome!
I had started training in another school that closed down when I was at black tip level. It took a while to find another club that had the positive characteristics I had grown to appreciate. I began training with Chief Instructor Brett Canning, who helped me to adapt my techniques and patterns and opened my eyes to how much more there was still to learn. Through this journey, I learnt more about myself, and I feel like I have become a better student, black belt and instructor as a result.
How often do you train? In Taekwondo? Gym? etc
Like most households, mine is a busy one, and so training is often a crazy mix of fitting things in whenever I can. I am definitely NOT a morning person, so this means that most evenings are filled with either a taekwondo class, a gym class, or some at home training.
Favourite Taekwondo move or moves?
Pretty much anything that doesn’t result in me falling over.
What are your goals in Taekwondo?
- To contribute to the club as a whole and to the Canberra region of United Taekwondo.
- To get more members at Instructor Steven’s and my dojang in Campbell.
- To become a better martial artist.
- To become a better instructor.
What would you like to see more of or less of in United Taekwondo that could benefit members?
I’d like to see members get more involved in our taekwondo community – both with our online presence and also by attending more of our special events. These are great ways to practice and to learn, as well as to get the most out of the club on a mental level. Being part of a group of like-minded people is the best feeling.
I’d like to see United Taekwondo continue to promote confidence in children. Being a kid is tough, and I honestly believe that martial arts can help kids develop the tools they need to be healthy, to feel self-confident, and to make good choices.
Has Taekwondo benefited home life? If so in what way?
Taekwondo has benefited most parts of my life. It has given me a shared interest with my husband, Instructor Steven, it has given me wonderful friends, and it has given me the opportunity to help people to reach their goals. Now, if only taekwondo could perform household chores….
Your favourite saying and what this means?
“Consistency is king”. People always talk about getting motivated or losing motivation. But motivation isn’t what helps you reach your goals. Consistency is where success can be found. Consistency will get you through all those times when your motivation is nowhere to be found.
Best advice you can give someone training and wishing to start training in Taekwondo?
To someone who is training – Remember, taekwondo is just as much mental as it is physical. Without failure there can’t be success. Be proud of your achievements. Be inspired by some and remember that you are inspirational to others.
To someone wishing to start training – It’s okay to be scared. It’s okay to feel silly. It’s okay to be unsure. But it’s not okay to give up without trying. You are stronger, braver and better with each decision to try.
What other activities apart from Taekwondo do you enjoy?
Does eating chocolate count as an activity?
Favourite movie(s) and why?
I have a short attention span, so usually the last film I’ve seen (unless it was really bad). Let’s just say, any movie that makes me laugh, scream or clap … but for the right reasons.
Favourite food?
Yes, food is definitely a favourite of mine.
With regards to Taekwondo where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?
Making a difference.