FOLLOWING the success of Team GB at the Olympics, De Silva Taekwon-Do Association in Ealing is encouraging people to take up the growing sport.

After opening his first taekwon-do academy in 1998 at St James Church in Wembley, Johann De Silva decided to invest in a studio in Ealing 2011.

The academy now has more than 200 students across its five UK clubs and prides itself on the achievements of its students, including 2015 Silver World Championship winner Hannah Whittaker.

The academy also saw six of its athletes compete in the European Taekwon-do Championships earlier this year and has seven of its students competing in the National Team.

Mr De Silva said: “I wanted to provide a fitness space that everyone could access, and that would see people realise they could achieve more than they thought they could.

“It’s about instilling that drive in all those who walk through the front door of our studio.”

Team GB’s success at Rio 2016 has brought taekwon-do into the limelight.

The sixth-degree black belt from Wembley said: “We did well. Jade Jones was fantastic and was able to retain her gold which is incredible. She did really well.

“Lutala Mohammad was excellent and unfortunately just one second off from gold, but sometimes in sport, the result isn’t always reflected on performance.

“I thought his speech immediately after was heartfelt, moving and proved just how passionate he was.”

The academy, which practices the traditional ITF style of taekwon-do that incorporates strikes to the face, understands the importance of tailoring their approach to suit everyone.

Mr De Silva said: “We receive a diverse range of students who join for a range of reasons.

“Some for health, some for protection, some to develop their skills, and others to reach championship level.

“Everyone is different, but ultimately they all want to challenge themselves.

“The classes provide something for everyone.

“There is fitness, cardio, muscle conditioning, strength conditioning and it’s also a good way to channel aggression.

“Not only is the level high but there is a family feel to our classes and a group mentality.”

Mr De Silva, who was first introduced to taekwon-do aged eight while studying at Buxlow Preparatory School, achieved his black belt by 17, and has since gone on to achieve medals in both the World and European Championships.

He is currently coaching the ITF England National Team.

He said: “As a martial artist, it’s different to when you’re instructing and managing others, it’s more technical and competition based. But there is just so much to learn and enjoy.”

To celebrate the studio’s fifth anniversary, a free week’s trial at one of the De Silva branches is available to those who quote the ‘Ealing Times’ when booking.

For information about classes visit: www.desilvatkd.com