How Technology is Changing Martial Arts Training in SurreyWhen most people think of martial arts, they picture discipline, tradition, and hard physical training. And that’s all true—but martial arts is also about adapting and evolving. At Jong Kim Martial Arts in Surrey, we’re proud to honor the traditional values of taekwondo, while also leading the way in using modern technology to enhance training. From training apps and video analysis to wearable tech and even virtual reality, martial arts is moving forward—and we’ve been part of that movement from the beginning. A Legacy of Innovation in Martial Arts SurreyDid you know that Surrey’s first martial arts tech innovation started right here? Back in the 1990s, Grandmaster Edward Kim—a pioneer in Canadian taekwondo—designed and built one of the first-ever power bags that rewarded impact, rather than just absorbing or pushing back strikes like a traditional heavy bag. This was a revolutionary idea at the time. Instead of just hitting for form, students were encouraged to kick and punch with power and precision, learning to control force and build real-world striking skills. “He was ahead of his time,” says many of his former students. “It wasn’t just about training harder. It was about training smarter—with feedback.” That same forward-thinking approach continues at Surrey's Jong Kim Martial Arts. The StretcherSizer: A Game-Changer for FlexibilityAnother innovative tool developed right here in Surrey was the StretcherSizer, a custom-built stretching machine created by Grandmaster Jong Chan Kim. Flexibility is essential in taekwondo—for high kicks, smooth motion, and injury prevention. The StretcherSizer helped students:
At a time when most schools relied on manual stretching alone, this tool made a huge difference in how students improved and stayed injury-free. Modern Martial Arts Tools: Today’s Tech, Same PhilosophyWhile our roots in martial arts tech go back decades, we’re always exploring the newest innovations to help students improve. Here’s how we’re using technology at Jong Kim Martial Arts today: Training Apps & At-Home ToolsBusy schedule? We get it. That’s why we support training apps that help students practice at home, track progress, and review key techniques between classes. Apps can support:
It’s all about keeping students engaged and consistent—even outside the dojang. Video Feedback & Performance AnalysisWe regularly film students during class—especially during forms, sparring, and drills—so they can see what they can’t feel. With this kind of feedback, students quickly spot what they need to improve. Video analysis helps with:
Wearable Tech: Train Smarter, Not Just HarderMany of our adult and competitive students use fitness wearables to monitor their:
This kind of feedback makes martial arts more measurable and helps prevent overtraining—especially when paired with rest and recovery. Virtual Reality (VR) & Reaction DrillsYes, we’re starting to see VR enter the world of martial arts. Some programs simulate opponents or drills, improving reaction speed and decision-making in real time. While we still believe in hands-on sparring, VR is a useful supplement for individual training—and an exciting glimpse into what’s next. Online Training ResourcesWe also offer online supplemental materials to keep students connected during breaks, vacations, or busy weeks. These include:
It’s all part of creating a complete martial arts experience that goes beyond the mats. Final Thoughts: The Future of Martial Arts, Right Here in SurreyTechnology will never replace the values of martial arts: discipline, respect, perseverance, and self-control. But it can absolutely enhance how we teach those values—and how students grow. At Jong Kim Martial Arts in Surrey, we’re proud to be part of a multi-generational legacy of martial arts innovation—from the impact-focused power bag of the 1990s, to today’s training apps and wearables. Whether you're a beginner or a black belt, tech can help you train smarter, stay motivated, and reach your goals—both in taekwondo and in life. 📍 Visit us at Jong Kim Martial Arts in Surrey BC. 📞 Call 604-590-1000 🌐 Learn more or book your free trial class at www.jktkd.ca Because martial arts isn’t just about the past. It’s about leading the future—with purpose, tradition, and smart training. Jong Kim Martial Arts: always ahead of the times! Innovation, creativity. Unit 136 - 7536 130 Street, Surrey, BC, V3W 1H8.Comments are closed.
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AUTHOR: Master Edward Kim c/o Jong Kim Martial Arts in Surrey and NewtonArchives
November 2025
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