Club Reviews
From stephanie townsend
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My Taekwondo Journey
Many years ago, I began my Taekwondo journey with my husband and children. At the time, it was simply an activity for us to do together — something active, fun, and different from our usual routine. We joined the local club, not knowing that this decision would shape our lives in such a lasting way. From the very first class, we were hooked. There was something so special about training as a family — laughing together when we made mistakes, encouraging each other when things got tough, and celebrating every little success as a team.
Those early days were filled with energy and excitement. Every session brought new challenges: learning to balance, remembering patterns, and mastering the art of focus. The best part was seeing my children’s faces light up when they earned a new kick or broke their first board. Taekwondo gave us something rare — a shared goal that brought us closer as a family and allowed us to grow together in discipline, fitness,
and spirit. As time went on and life became busier, it became harder for the rest of the family to keep up with the training schedule. School, work, and other commitments took priority, and slowly, they had to step back. I missed those family sessions
— the chatter on the way to class, the laughter when we all got tangled trying tio remember a sequence. But even though they couldn’t attend anymore, our love for Taekwondo stayed alive at home. We’d often clear some space in the living room
or head to the garden to practice patterns together. Those moments reminded me that martial arts isn’t just about the dojang; it’s a mindset and a way of life.
Eventually, I made the decision to continue training on my own. It wasn’t easy at first — walking into class without my family by my side felt strange and a bit lonely. But my club
was incredibly supportive, and my instructors and fellow students quickly became a second family. Their encouragement pushed me to keep going, and with their
guidance, I reached a milestone I once thought was far beyond my reach — earning my black belt.
That moment, standing in front of my instructors with the belt in my hands, filled me with pride. It wasn’t just a symbol of skill; it was a symbol of perseverance, confidence, and selfbelief. I had proven to myself that I could achieve something
belief. I had proven to myself that I could achieve something remarkable, even when the path got difficult. Taekwondo had become more than a hobby — it was a source of strength and empowerment.
Throughout my journey, there have been countless memories that I cherish deeply — from the thrill of gradings to the laughter at club events and outings. One of the most unforgettable experiences was our trip to Berlin. It was the first time I had ever travelled abroad without my family, and it was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. The trip opened my eyes to new cultures, deepened my friendships within the
club, and gave me a renewed sense of independence. At a time when I had been struggling with some mental health challenges, that journey reminded me that I was capable, strong, and never truly alone.
Over the years, Taekwondo has given me so much more than physical ability. It has taught me discipline, focus, and patience. It has built my confidence, not only in training but also in everyday life. The lessons I’ve learned in the dojang
— respect, perseverance, and self-control — have helped me
in my work and personal life too. Even now, I often find myself drawn outside to practice my patterns in the open air. On days when I’m feeling anxious or stressed, moving through those familiar motions helps calm my mind and centre my thoughts. Each kick, stance, and turn reminds me of how far I’ve come — from the mother who
joined a Taekwondo class just to spend more time with her family, to the black belt who found her strength, confidence, and peace through the art.
Taekwondo will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s not just about the belts or the techniques — it’s about the journey, the people I’ve met, and the person I’ve become along the way.
Hello, my name is Susan Sykes and I have raised my grandson, Joshua Sykes since he was a baby. Joshua has ADHD and epilepsy after a brain injury at just a few weeks old, and really struggled in the school environment. After a lot of thought, I decided to homeschool him, and for the social aspect and fitness I enrolled him into the local Taekwondo class, Spartans.
It was the best decision that I made for Joshua. When Joshua started training he was an angry little boy who didn't fit in with the world around him. Through his time at Spartans, training under Master Paul Timms, his wife Gail, and the wonderful team at the club Joshua blossomed into a kind, calm, respectful and well-balanced young man.
He is no longer that angry kid, in fact, learning Taekwondo changed his outlook to life and other people.
This is all down to Master Paul and Gail.
Their kind and welcoming approach to the students and their families, their understanding that every person is different, and how they make you feel part of a team, a unit, a FAMILY.
Thankyou sir, Paul, Gail and everyone in our Taekwondo Family X
My son Victor started Taekwondo with Spartans when he was six and achieved his Second Poom by the age of twelve. Over the years, Taekwondo has helped him develop discipline, confidence, and focus, as well as giving him the chance to challenge himself both socially and mentally.
I’m grateful to Paul Timms for his steadiness, patience, and motivation with Victor throughout his journey. The academy also gave Victor opportunities to take on small leadership roles with other students, which really helped him find a sense of purpose.
The different class locations are another plus, offering flexibility for families and making the weekly routine a bit easier to manage.
I’d happily recommend Spartans Taekwondo for children who want to build skills, confidence, and self-discipline in a supportive environment.
Daniela M.
Dominic had a great 1st time at tykes tonight, he hasnt stio talking about it, thank you xx
Leah loved her first taekwondo tykes tonight, shes asked if you can do classes everyday! thank you
They arrive with anticipation and leave fulfilled smiling from ear to ear. An amazing group who are going from strength to strength!! A credit to themselves, their families and the club!!x
I have one very proud and excited little girl who will not stop bowing and is trying to teach us all how to do it correctly. Apparently I'm not good enough to earn my badge! Good job I have her to show me how to do it. The badges are a huge success!!!!
Your team are an inspiration. I am honoured to have been welcomed into the family and I am excited to see the impact of your work with my children!
Tykes Parents
various people
I would highly recommend Woodhall Spa Taekwondo to any one who is thinking of taking up a martial art themselves or thinking of sending their children. Both of my daughters go one aged 10 and the other aged 6 and they love it. Not only are they learning a martial art but they learn about discipline,self control, respect and another culture as some of the instructions are given in Korean. Their fitness has improved immensely as my eldest can now do 100 situps in 2 mins, where as before she would struggle running around a hockey pitch. I have also noticed that both my daughters are far more confident in everything they put their mind to. All of this is done in a friendly cheerful manner and everyone is made to feel very welcome. Paul Timms has developed a club he can be proud of and I know for sure I will be sending my son as soon as he is old enough.
John Cox Tomlinson RAF
Coningsby
Hi Paul I just wanted to put in writing what a positive impact Taekwondo has had on Josh. Firstly, I would like to say how much he enjoys the class and looks forward to going. It is such a friendly group and they have all been so welcoming to him and I know he see’s the other kids as his friends. Since joining his confidence has soared and in all aspects of his life he has gone from strength to strength. He was so shy, in fact I would go as far as saying he was almost afraid of his own shadow. Not any more. He was bullied a bit at school, and kids would call him stupid and a baby - but now he has the confidence to stand up for himself (in a non contact way!) He was even voted to be class prefect by his peers last week. His teacher has said he is more positive and confident in class, putting his hand up to answer questions etc and hasgone from a can’t do to a can do attitude. He is doing very well now in his school work as well. This has impacted positively on his happiness in general and many of my friends have commented on how he has ‘come out of his shell’ and what a lovely little boy he is. I have spent many a night worrying about josh, his lack of confidence etc – I cannot tell you how much I appreciate the positive impact your class has had and how much this means to me, which is why our Daughter Ellie has now joined and loves it too. Keep up the good work!
Rachael Billingham
Metheringham
“I have been a member of Woodhall Spa Taekwondo for about a year now. I had previous experience in a martial art which has helped towards my gradings but was not essential for the weekly training. Sabumnim Timms has a great knowledge of Taekwondo and teaches in a highly professional manner pushing us to our limits; meanwhile demonstrating his own fitness and skills to show he does not expect the impossible, but just the best his students can give. WST has helped develop my self-confidence and internal database of self-defence techniques. During my time as a student I have enjoyed a trip to Berlin to train under several Taekwondo Masters and a visit to it's Olympic Stadium and a club trip to the Taekwondo European Championships, all arranged by the club. Thanks to everybody involved for making my feel like part of a family"
Steve Curtis
Horncastle