Sorry I need to vent!

[ShotokanKen]

you can punch in sparing .. it just dosnt get you any points but if you punch at like the sternum, where theris not really any pad where it ends, it will hurt them , makin it easier so you can punch you just dont get points

[NyteShades]

I don't think your size matters, I have seen very large men become simply unstopable practicing TKD. However, this sounds like an ITF or WTF school. You might try and find another TKD school that doesn't adhere to either style strictly.

 

My school for instance place a very high emphasis on self defense in both sparring and on the street. We're taught to think like that.

 

As for your kicks, I'd recommend working on stretching excersises and weight lifting. Possibly a little kickboxing cross training to build your help flexor.

 

I am by no means an expert, just offering some advice.

[White_Tiger]

I agree with the previous post. Sounds like the ATA schools in my area. It is not the style...it is your school. Best of luck to you!