Taekwondo is a Korean martial art known for its emphasis on high, fast kicks and dynamic movements. The rigorous training often leads to a common question: Does Taekwondo training make a person taller? This belief stems from the physical conditioning and stretching inherent in the practice. However, the influence of any physical activity on a person’s ultimate stature is constrained by biological factors that determine height.
The Science of Stature: What Determines Height
Human height is primarily a polygenic trait, influenced by the cumulative effect of hundreds of genetic variants inherited from both parents. Scientists estimate that genetics account for approximately 80% of an individual’s final adult height potential. This strong genetic foundation sets the upper limit for vertical growth.
The actual lengthening of the long bones occurs at the growth plates, also known as epiphyseal plates, which are areas of cartilage near the ends of the bones. Cells within these plates divide and gradually turn into bone tissue, pushing the bones outward during childhood and adolescence. This process is the sole mechanism for increasing skeletal length.
Growth is significantly mediated by hormones, particularly Growth Hormone (GH) secreted by the pituitary gland, which stimulates IGF-1 production. Sex hormones, which surge during puberty, play a role in the growth spurt but also signal the eventual fusion of the growth plates. Once these cartilaginous plates harden into solid bone, typically in the late teens, height growth stops completely. No external intervention can increase maximum stature after this point.
Taekwondo’s True Physical Effects on the Body
Taekwondo cannot alter the maximum height dictated by genetics and growth plate fusion, but it delivers significant physical benefits that influence how a person carries their height. The practice is a strenuous, weight-bearing activity that positively affects the musculoskeletal system. For children and adolescents, Taekwondo training has been shown to significantly improve bone mineral density (BMD).
The intensive training regimen focuses heavily on core strength and spinal alignment. Consistent practice of forms and controlled movements strengthens the deep back and abdominal muscles that support the torso. This muscle conditioning helps correct poor posture, such as slouching or a forward head position, preventing a person from looking shorter than their actual height.
Improved posture is the primary mechanism by which Taekwondo creates the appearance of increased height. Training teaches practitioners to stand tall with shoulders back and spine properly aligned, allowing them to express their full, genetically determined height. The constant dynamic stretching involved in high kicks enhances flexibility and range of motion, which supports better body mechanics.
Addressing the Myth: Why Taekwondo is Associated with Height
The association between Taekwondo and becoming taller is largely driven by the perceived height increase from improved posture and a misunderstanding of how the body grows. The rigorous stretching involved in high-kick training is often mistakenly believed to “stretch” the bones or “open” the growth plates. Biologically, stretching only affects the elasticity of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, not the length of the long bones.
Another factor contributing to the myth is the general positive effect of physical activity on growth factors. Regular, vigorous exercise like Taekwondo can stimulate the release of growth hormones, which is beneficial for overall development. However, this stimulation is a general benefit of physical activity and does not make Taekwondo superior to other sports in promoting height.
The discipline inherent in martial arts training emphasizes standing with a strong, upright physical presence. This focus on maintaining a correct stance contributes to the perception of greater height and confidence, often leading to anecdotal claims of growth. Taekwondo supports healthy development and maximizes the expression of a person’s natural stature through excellent posture, rather than adding inches to their genetic potential.