Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that emphasizes high-kicking and hand techniques, and is both a traditional martial art and a modern sport. Its name is derived from three Korean words: "tae" (foot), "kwon" (fist), and "do" (way), reflecting its focus on kicking and striking with the hands. Beyond physical combat, it is a disciplined practice that fosters mental and ethical development, including respect, perseverance, and self-control.
| Techniques: | It includes a wide range of techniques, with a strong emphasis on powerful and acrobatic kicks. Hand strikes, blocks, and dodges are also a part of its repertoire. | ||
| Training: | Training involves practicing self-defense skills, as well as "forms" (pre-arranged patterns of movements) and sparring. The practice is beneficial for both physical and mental fitness. | ||
| Philosophy: | Taekwondo is considered a "way of life" that promotes moral character, discipline, and a healthy mind and body. It teaches principles like courage, humility, and compassion. | ||
| Sport: | Taekwondo has been an official Olympic sport since the 2000 Sydney Games. It is a popular international sport with competitions in categories like sparring, forms, and breaking. |
Taekwondo training is an excellent means of achieving overall body conditioning and weight control. All parts of the body are used in a typical Taekwondo workout as well as learning valuable
self-defense skills.
Through the exercise and movements involved in taekwondo training, the power of concentration is improved in order to accomplish the required techniques, self-confidence is improved as the
individual achieves ever increasingly difficult goals, self-control is improved by learning to respond to any situation in a positive way, and self-discipline is improved that force is taught
as a defensive tool rather than an aggressive weapon.
Children learn respect, courtesy, confidence, self-control, and self-defense while participating in a good exercise program. All these things help improve attitudes and grades.
Each student progresses individually and everyone is involved. There are no "bench warmers" in Taekwondo. This allows everybody to reach their own potential, at their own pace.
Taekwondo lessons are dynamic and challenging for people who are athletic, energetic, awkward, shy, bold, nice, or out of shape.
No, Taekwondo and Karate are not the same martial arts; they are distinct styles with different origins, philosophies, and techniques. The main difference is their emphasis: Taekwondo, which is Korean, focuses heavily on dynamic and powerful kicking techniques, while Karate, originating from Japan, primarily emphasizes hand strikes like punches and chops.
The 5 tenets of Taekwondo are courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. These principles serve as a moral code for practitioners, guiding their behavior both inside and outside of the dojang.
| Courtesy: | Treating others with respect, politeness, and appreciation. | ||
| Integrity: | Telling the truth, keeping promises, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching. | ||
| Perseverance: | Setting goals, and having the determination to keep going and accomplish them, even when facing difficulty. | ||
| Self Control: | Realizing that your own determination, mind, and spirit give you complete control over your life and actions. | ||
| Indomitable Spirit: | Having a spirit that cannot be broken and being resolute in achieving your goals, never giving up or being overcome by fear. |