Instructor
Instructor John Tyler
4th Dan Black Belt
St George NSW Region – Oatley West Dojang
How long have you been training in Taekwondo and what got you started?
Back in 2007, while I was accompanying my three children to Taekwondo lessons and quietly observing from the back of the class, Chief Instructor John approached me and inquired why I was merely sitting there. To my surprise, he extended a kind invitation for me to participate in a class. Since then, I have been actively training in Taekwondo, continuing on my journey of growth and development.
Highlights of your Taekwondo success?
Picking out Taekwondo highlights can be quite challenging. While each of my black belt gradings holds a special place in my heart, if I were to choose one highlight, it would be my first dan grading. Transitioning from coloured to black belt signified that I had mastered the fundamentals, achieved a certain level of proficiency, and was ready to embark on a serious journey of Taekwondo training. It marked the beginning rather than the end of my path.
Another noteworthy moment was witnessing the black belt gradings of my children. Although my daughter has since discontinued her training, my two sons continue to pursue Taekwondo, and I thoroughly enjoy joining them in training sessions. Whether it’s at our hall in Oatley West, where my eldest serves as the branch instructor, or in other classes and senior training sessions, training with them is truly inspiring.
Looking beyond my personal experiences, one of the highlights is guiding students to reach their full potential. I derive immense satisfaction from observing students grow and develop, particularly those who may face challenges in their Taekwondo journey. I take great pride in those students I have successfully trained to earn their black belts. It brings me joy to still see them attending classes, continuing their own journeys, and I relish the opportunity to train with them.
Describe your first black belt grading and what it took to get you there?
At the time, the journey towards obtaining a black belt felt like a lengthy and demanding process. I committed myself to attending four classes per week, and I had the privilege of training alongside my training buddy, Dusan. Together, we trained hard, offering mutual support and motivation throughout the entire process. Having someone by my side throughout the journey was truly invaluable.
The day of the grading itself remains somewhat of a blur in my memory. I anticipated facing a rigorous physical challenge and engaging in intense sparring sessions, and indeed, those aspects were present. However, what stands out most vividly in my recollection is the overwhelming nervousness I experienced for the board breaks. Despite the nerves, I managed to succeed and felt an immense sense of relief once it was all over. The moment when the new black belt was ceremoniously wrapped around me remains etched in my mind, filling me with an indescribable sense of pride.
How often do you train in Taekwondo, gym, etc?
I assist my son teaching two nights a week at our Dojang at Oatley West, and train on Saturdays at South Hurstville, an occasional Monday at Oatley and Senior Training once a month.
I do not really like gyms so outside formal classes I rotate through a variety of various things at home, from basic strength and cardio, and my focus now of increased stretching to improve my flexibility.
Favourite Taekwondo move or moves?
I prefer kicks to hand techniques, and like using multiple techniques in a row. My favourite moves change over time as I focus on improving different techniques.
What are your personal goals in Taekwondo?
A goal is often viewed as a specific and measurable target, but I have come to perceive Taekwondo differently. Instead of fixating on reaching a predetermined benchmark, where success or failure is binary, I approach it as a continuous journey of improvement. My focus is on consistently bettering myself, striving to perform better each time than I did before. This mindset of incremental progress allows for growth without becoming disheartened by not meeting a specific target, while also avoiding the limitations that come with solely aiming for a predefined goal. With each step along this path, my aim is simply to surpass my previous performance and continue pushing myself to new heights.
Best advice you can give someone training and wishing to start training in Taekwondo?
Simply begin. Don’t worry about not being able to do what you witness others accomplishing. Keep in mind that everyone started as a beginner at some point, and within the United Taekwondo family, you will find ample assistance and support. It’s essential to remember that each person’s journey is unique, so train and work in a manner that suits you best.
What other activities apart from Taekwondo do you enjoy?
I do quite a bit of volunteering with St John Ambulance, and really enjoy photography. I also enjoy spending time with family and travelling, either short local trips or larger overseas adventures.
With regards to Taekwondo where do you see yourself in 5 years? in 10 years?
Still training, and still trying to improve.