Taekwondo offers several known health advantages on a physical level. According to Kim and Lee, (2019) rigorous training regimens improve motor coordination, increase muscular strength, enhance cardiovascular endurance, and improve flexibility. Additionally, taekwondo has significant social advantages. A sense of community is fostered among practitioners by the collaborative nature of training. Training sessions, competitions, and common experiences foster interpersonal communication, teamwork, and the formation of enduring friendships. These exchanges are frequently supported by the common ideals of decency, civility, and honesty that are important to Taekwondos ideology. Likewise Stankiewicz, (2013) asserted that consistent practice lowers the chance of injury, increases bone density, and facilitates efficient weight management. These physical benefits highlight Taekwondos potential as a complete fitness program. In addition to these short-term advantages, Taekwondo is linked to long-term health benefits, making it an essential component of an athletes total physical fitness. Taekwondo has equally important psychological benefits. This is a martial art that requires mental discipline, emotional control, and focus. These demands promote better mental health outcomes, stress management, and increased cognitive function. According to studies, Taekwondo can improve self-esteem and confidence while reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety (Elahi et al., 2023; Smith et al., 2018). 

Taekwondos structured nature training encourages practitioners to cultivate a growth mindset, emphasizing resilience and adaptability. Because of the physical and emotional strain, players are better equipped to handle obstacles both inside and outside of the sport. Taekwondo practitioners benefit from a strong feeling of community that not only improves social well-being but also offers them emotional support, which raises their general quality of life. 

Culturally, Taekwondo is a gateway to understanding and appreciating Korean heritage. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, the sport reflects values central to Korean culture, such as respect for authority, perseverance, and self-control. By practicing Taekwondo, athletes engage with these cultural principles, fostering a deeper appreciation for the philosophy and traditions that define the martial art. Park et al. (2020) explored this connection between Taekwondo and cultural identity, shedding light on how the martial art practice shapes individuals understanding of themselves and their cultural roots. For many practitioners, Taekwondo becomes a medium through which they experience and internalize values that transcend the sport itself.

Despite these multifaceted benefits, research into the quality of life among Taekwondo athletes was limited. While existing studies highlighted various physical, psychological, and cultural aspects of the sport, they often did so in isolation. For example Chen and Wang, (2018) investigated the mental health benefits of martial arts, including Taekwondo, emphasizing its promotional role on emotional resilience. Similarly, Brown et al. (2017) conducted a comprehensive analysis of factors influencing athletes quality of life across various sports. However, neither study delved into the unique interplay between the physical, mental, and cultural dimensions of Taekwondo and how these collectively shaped the holistic well-being of its practitioners.

In sports research, a significant gap persists in studying the quality of life among Taekwondo athletes. This area of study remains compelling and underexplored despite the sports unique nature and widespread popularity. This Korean traditional martial art is renowned globally for its dynamic kicking techniques and strategic movements. However, it represents far more than just physical activity. It embodies a philosophy profoundly entrenched in respect, discipline, perseverance, and self-improvement, offering practitioners a pathway to holistic growth. This multifaceted nature makes Taekwondo a rich subject for academic inquiry, particularly in understanding its impact on the practitioners quality of life.

This gap in research underscored the necessity for a more comprehensive understanding of how Taekwondo influenced athletes lives. Quality of life encompassed not only physical health but also mental resilience, emotional satisfaction, social connections, and cultural identity. A deeper investigation into these interconnected dimensions could provide valuable insights into the holistic impact of Taekwondo. In response to this identified gap, the researcher aimed to conduct an in-depth study focusing on Taekwondo athletes quality of life at Capiz State University (CAPSU). This study sought to explore how the sport contributed to their physical health, mental well-being, emotional satisfaction, and cultural identity. By examining these aspects collectively, the research intended to provide a nuanced understanding of how Taekwondo shaped the lives of its practitioners. Such an exploration was not only academically significant but also practically relevant. Insights from this research could inform training practices, guided policymaking in sports education, and supported initiatives aimed at enhancing the holistic development of athletes. Moreover, this study had the potential to bridge existing gaps in the literature, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between sports and quality of life. Taekwondo, as a distinctive fusion of physical activity, mental discipline, and cultural heritage, exemplified how sports could transcend mere recreation to become a powerful catalyst for individual progression and social transformation.

This research utilized a qualitative research design specifically the phenomenological approach to understand the subjective experiences of Taekwondo practitioners. By focusing on their lived experiences, the study aimed to uncover the meaning and significance of Taekwondo in their lives. Qualitative research is an approach focusing on understanding and interpreting the subjective experiences, perspectives, and meanings of individuals or groups. It entails gathering and examining non-numerical data for this study, including observations, interviews, and documents. Moreover, qualitative research aims to explore complex phenomena, uncover hidden meanings, and generate rich, detailed descriptions (Creswell and Poth, 2018; Karimi et al., 2023). In addition, it employed Phenomenological research design, a method that allows for a deep exploration of individuals perceptions, interpretations, and under-standing of participants experiences (Creswell, 2014).

Furthermore, this study focused on the influence of Taekwondo on the Taekwondo CAPSU Athletes life quality in return for gaining a deeper understanding of the holistic impact of Taekwondo on the quality of life of its practitioners. Moreover, the researcher utilized purposive sampling in identifying the participants of this study. 

As a data-gathering technique, in-depth interviews were conducted with participants, either face-to-face or virtually, using a structured interview guide and with their consent. This guide consisted of a series of open-ended questions categorized into five main areas: (a) Motivations for Joining Taekwondo, exploring participants initial motivations, including personal goals and social influences; (b) Benefits of Taekwondo Participation, focusing on physical, mental, emotional, and social gains; (c) Application of Taekwondo Tenets, delving into the participants understanding and application of core Taekwondo values in their lives; (d) Influence of Taekwondo on Quality of Life, exploring its impact on their mental and physical well-being, social interactions, and overall life satisfaction; and (e) Sustaining Engagement in Taekwondo, investigating factors contributing to continued participation, including personal motivations, social connections, and the unique aspects of Taekwondo. This approach allowed for a flexible and in-depth exploration of the participants experiences, providing valuable insights into the multifaceted impact of Taekwondo on their lives. Within each category, specific probing questions were included to encourage deeper reflection and elicit more detailed responses. By utilizing this comprehensive interview guide, the researcher was able to gather rich and insightful data that provided a deeper understanding of the multifaceted impact of Taekwondo on the lives of its practitioners. For the instruments validity, three professors of the university reviewed the questions for clarity, relevance, and consistency. Their feedback was incorporated into the final version of the interview guide.

The interview process took place in different settings within Roxas City with appointments scheduled to accommodate participants availability. The studys participants were purposively identified following the inclusion and exclusion criteria. They consisted of 15 members of the CAPSU Taekwondo Athletes. Ten (10) were males and five (5) were females. These individuals may or may not be active practitioners and have a substantial level of engagement with Taekwondo, making them suitable candidates for exploring the nuanced martial arts impact on their quality of life. Prior to data collection, the researcher obtained necessary approvals to conduct the study. To uphold ethical standards, the researcher got an informed consent from all participants. This ensured they understood the research purpose, potential risks, and benefits, and how their data would be used.  To establish a comfortable and conducive environment for open dialogue, an orientation session was conducted before the interviews. 

Then, one-on-one interviews were conducted. Each interview lasted approximately 30 minutes per participant, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of their perspectives. Audio recordings were captured during the interviews using voice memo applications on smartphones to ensure accurate transcription and analysis. Simultaneously, the researcher meticulously documented key insights, observations, and contextual information in detailed field notes. Following the interviews, the audio recordings were meticulously transcribed verbatim, preserving the nuances of participants language and ensuring data accuracy. 

To ensure data accuracy and minimize potential bias, the researcher employed a rigorous data collection process. This included returning transcriptions of the interviews to the participants for review and allowing them to affix their signatures to the document, confirming the accuracy and completeness of their responses. The transcribed data were then systematically analyzed using thematic analysis. This involved a rigorous process of identifying, coding, and categorizing recurring themes and patterns within the data. By carefully examining the data and identifying key themes, the research aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the participants experiences and the multifaceted impact of Taekwondo on their lives. This approach ensured a comprehensive and ethical data collection process, prioritizing participant comfort, data accuracy, and the rigorous application of qualitative research methods. The transcribed data were coded inductively and a thematic analysis was used in identifying the patterns, the themes, and the key insights of the participants responses.

Moreover, participant well-being was prioritized by conducting interviews at convenient times and creating a supportive environment. The researcher acknowledged their connection to Taekwondo while striving for objectivity and reflexivity. The study underwent ethical review and approval by the relevant institutional review board to ensure adherence to ethical guidelines and regulations. Data was handled with the utmost confidentiality, and all identifying information was removed to ensure participant anonymity. Following to these ethical principles, the study aimed to ensure the well-being of participants and the ethical conduct of the research.

During the interviews conducted, the result revealed that the participants primary motivations for joining Taekwondo were rooted in personal growth and development and social and community involvement. They sought to cultivate self-discipline, embrace physical challenges, and acquire self-defense skills. Additionally, the social aspects of Taekwondo, including camaraderie and team spirit, played a significant role in their decision to participate in the sport. As a martial art, Taekwondo provides a comprehensive approach to mental and physical growth. Beyond its technical aspects, Taekwondo fosters numerous benefits for its practitioners. The participants derived numerous benefits from their involvement in Taekwondo. Physically, they experienced improved fitness, enhanced coordination, and a strengthened immune system. Mentally, the sport fostered self-confidence, reduced stress, and improved focus and concentration. Socially, Taekwondo provided opportunities for strong friendships, teamwork, and positive social interactions. Beyond the physical demands, Taekwondo fostered self-discipline, with participants emphasizing the desire to cultivate self-discipline and build confidence. The rigorous training regimen and adherence to strict etiquette within Taekwondo contributed to self-control and time management skills development. The physically demanding nature of Taekwondo also served as a significant motivator, with participants drawn to the challenge of pushing their physical limits and achieving personal fitness goals. Furthermore, the Taekwondo skills practical application, particularly self-defense, was a key motivator for many individuals. Taekwondo significantly enhances physical health and fitness. Participants consistently reported improvements in numerous facets of physical well-being, including increased strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. 

The rigorous training regimen, encompassing strength training, cardiovascular exercises, and flexibility routines, contributes to these improvements. Furthermore, Taekwondo demands precise coordination and balance, leading to significant enhancements in these areas. The sports dynamic nature, requiring rapid movements and agile footwork, significantly improves coordination, balance, and speed. These enhanced motor skills not only benefit athletic performance but also translate into improved physical function and coordination in daily life. Additionally, Taekwondo and other forms of routine physical activity help to enhance the immune system. Participants reported feeling "healthier and stronger" and less prone to illness, highlighting the positive impact of Taekwondo on overall physical well-being. Moreover, regular physical activity has been linked to a stronger immune system. Taekwondos physically demanding nature can contribute to improved immune function.

The result aligned with existing research on the psychological benefits of sports participation, highlighting the Taekwondos significant role in fostering personal growth, self-discipline, and a feeling of accomplishment. This aligned with existing research on the psychological benefits of sports participation, as outlined by Kline, (2015) and Lim et al. (2018). By fostering self-defense skills, self-discipline, and physical fitness, Taekwondo significantly contributes to the overall well-being of its practitioners. Moreover, by understanding the motivations and experiences of Taekwondo practitioners, they can create supportive and nurturing environments that foster personal growth and lifelong engagement in the sport. The mental benefits of Taekwondo extend beyond physical exertion, influencing self-esteem, stress management, and cognitive function. Hence, participants self-esteem and confidence are significantly impacted by Taekwondo. The rigorous training, discipline, and achievements in Taekwondo contribute to positive self-image and strong belief in ones capabilities. Participants reported that Taekwondo helped them reduce stress and anxiety, providing an effective outlet for stress relief. The physical exertion and mental focus involved in training can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Furthermore, the mental demands of the sport, such as memorizing techniques and executing complex movements, contribute to enhanced cognitive abilities, improving focus, concentration, and overall mental acuity.

The result aligned with broader research on the psychological benefits of Combat Sports and Martial Arts (CSMA). As Biernat et al. (2018) suggest CSMA practitioners often exhibit higher life quality. Taekwondo, as a specific form of CSMA, demonstrates a similar impact on participants mental and emotional well-being. This implies that with the rigorous training regimen and by understanding the multifaceted benefits of Taekwondo, we can appreciate its potential to contribute to a fulfilling and balanced lifestyle.

Taekwondo also fosters strong sense of camaraderie and community, promoting positive social interactions, teamwork, and enduring friendships among its practitioners. Participants often form deep bonds with their training partners and teammates. As Participant 10 stated, "gained a friend for life," highlighting the enduring nature of these relationships. The shared experiences of training, competing, and overcoming challenges contribute to strong friendship developments. Meanwhile, Taekwondo emphasized teamwork and cooperation, particularly during training sessions and competitions. Participants learn to work together towards common goals, support each other, and celebrate each others successes. Taekwondo provides opportunities for individuals to interact with people from diverse backgrounds. 

Participants often engage in social activities, such as team dinners, outings, and community service projects, which further strengthen their social bonds. Additionally, the emphasis on respect, etiquette, and fair play in Taekwondo contributes to positive social interactions. The result aligned with existing research of Vella et al. (2023) on the holistic benefits of sports participation, particularly martial arts like Taekwondo. By fostering physical health, mental well-being, and social relationships, Taekwondo has the potential to significantly enhance the practitioners quality of life. Also, to maximize its positive impact on quality of life, it is essential to prioritize the well-being of coaches and athletes, and by providing adequate training, support, and resources, we can ensure that Taekwondo continues to be a valued means for personal and societal development.

Beyond the physical components of the martial art, Taekwondo is based on a set of fundamental principles. The participants exemplified the fundamental principles of Taekwondo, such as self-control, perseverance, courtesy, honesty, and an unbreakable spirit. These values shaped their character and influenced their behavior both on and off the mat. Their character is shaped by fundamental principles such as dignity, honesty, self-control, perseverance, and an unwavering spirit. Participants emphasized the importance of respect towards coaches and opponents, honesty and fairness, and accepting outcomes with sportsmanship. Perseverance was highlighted by many, with participants emphasizing dedication, overcoming challenges, and resilience. Finally, the indomitable spirit fostered courage, mental toughness, and self-confidence, empowering athletes in facing the challenges with unwavering determination. 

The result aligned with existing research on the positive impact of martial arts on character development. As Cipra and Hall, (2019) noted, Taekwondo can contribute to the positive social skills development and ethical behavior. Additionally, the concept of autonomy support, as explored by (Kendellen and Camiré, 2015; Cronin and Allen, 2018) suggests that a supportive and empowering coaching environment can further enhance the development of life skills and character traits. It is a holistic discipline that fosters personal growth and transformation in martial arts sports like Taekwondo. Taekwondo had a profound impact on the participants lives. It fostered personal growth, improved physical and mental well-being, and strengthened social relationships. 

The discipline, focus, and perseverance cultivated through Taekwondo translated into success in various facets of their lives, including academics, careers, and personal relationships. Taekwondo, as highlighted by the participants, has proven to be a potent catalyst for character and personal growth. The martial arts emphasis on discipline, perseverance, and respect has significantly impacted the lives of those who practice it. Many participants noted a marked improvement in their mental well-being, with taekwondo serving as a means for management of stress and emotional regulation. The martial arts also fostered a sense of self-confidence and resilience. Participants described how taekwondo empowered them to overcome challenges and embrace new opportunities. Moreover, taekwondo cultivated time management skills and strong sense of discipline. Participants reported improved punctuality, adherence to routines, and ability in balancing multiple commitments. 

The result also highlighted the multifaceted impact of taekwondo on personal transformation and healthy lifestyle habits. While the martial art directly contributes to physical fitness and skill development, its influence extends afar the training mat. Participants consistently reported improvements in mental well-being, self-discipline, time management, and overall lifestyle and these findings aligned with the research of Arazi et al. (2016), suggesting that martial arts training can enhance cognitive function, reduce stress, and promote emotional regulation. The findings from the studies of (Kim and Chung, 2022; Adie and Jowett, 2020) corroborated the real-world experiences of the taekwondo participants. Both research and personal accounts emphasize the multifaceted impact of Taekwondo on individuals lives. These findings reinforce the notion that Taekwondo serves as more than just a physical activity, acting as a personal growth and development platform. The studies highlighted the strong correlation between character traits and life skills, suggesting that training in Taekwondo can cultivate qualities such as self-regulation, empathy, and self-esteem, which in turn contribute to the development of essential life skills. Similarly, the participants testimonies demonstrate how taekwondo has positively influenced their physical health, mental well-being, and career aspirations.

The result also revealed that former athletes sustained their engagement in Taekwondo through various means, including coaching, mentoring, and informal practice. The enduring influence of Taekwondo on their lives, coupled with the lifelong learning opportunities and strong sense of community, contributed to their continued involvement in the sport. The participants responses provide compelling insights into the enduring appeal of Taekwondo. A recurring theme is the deep-rooted love for the martial art, extending far beyond competitive aspirations. The participants responses offer varied perspectives on their continued involvement with Taekwondo, even after their active training days. While the level of physical activity varies widely, a common thread of the enduring influence of Taekwondo on their lives is evident.

Moreover, the participants responses highlighted the diverse ways in which they continue to engage with Taekwondo beyond their competitive years. A common theme was their commitment to lifelong learning and community service. Participants demonstrated their ongoing involvement by supporting their peers and family members who are still actively competing. This underscores camaraderie and strong sense of community that Taekwondo fosters. They also exemplified the transition from athlete to mentor. By taking on coaching roles, they contribute to the next generation of Taekwondo practitioners, sharing their knowledge and experience. In particular, they emphasized the importance of providing guidance and support to new athletes, helping them overcome challenges and develop their skills. 

These examples demonstrate the enduring impact of Taekwondo on individuals lives. By continuing to learn, teach, and support others, these participants embody the spirit of lifelong learning and community service. The result aligned with the research of Bowley et al. (2018) which highlights the enduring impact of the sport beyond competitive careers. Taekwondo cultivates physical prowess and essential life skills such as discipline, respect, and perseverance. These skills, along with strong sense of community fostered by the sport, contribute to individuals overall well-being and success. By understanding the lifelong benefits of Taekwondo, further promoting the sport as a valued means for personal and societal development is crucial.

The primary motivations for joining Taekwondo are rooted in personal growth and social connection. Participants seek to cultivate physical fitness, self-discipline, and self-defense skills. The camaraderie and team spirit within the Taekwondo community show a substantial part in attracting individuals to the sport. Taekwondo offers a wide range of physical, social, and mental benefits. The participants behavior on and off the mat is shaped by the fundamental principles of Taekwondo, which include perseverance, courtesy, self-control, integrity, and an unbreakable spirit. 

This makes it clear that Taekwondo has a good effect on the participants character development. The transformative power of Taekwondo fosters personal growth, improves physical and mental well-being, and strengthens social relationships. Thus, the discipline, focus, and perseverance cultivated through Taekwondo translate into success in numerous facets of the participants lives, including academics, careers, and personal relationships. The Taekwondos enduring impact on the participants lives is crucial even after their competitive careers as many former athletes remain actively involved in the sport through coaching, mentoring, and informal practice, as experienced also by the researcher. This suggests that Taekwondo fosters a strong sense of community and provides lifelong learning opportunities that contribute to sustained engagement and a source of monetary funds.

The researcher appreciates those who contributed their valuable support on this endeavor, particularly to the informants/participants and Capiz State University Main Campus.

The author affirms that there are no conflicts of interest.