Taekwondo

Taekwondo

Milad Kharchegani at the 2016 Summer Olympics

Flying Double Side Kick in Martial Arts

Master Scott Leonard

TAEKWONDO PRACTICIONER KORYO

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Taekwondo is a Korean martial art characterized by its emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques. It is one of the most systematic and scientific Korean traditional martial arts, teaching more than physical fighting skills. It is a discipline that shows ways of enhancing our spirit and life through training our body and mind.

History

Taekwondo traces its origins to ancient Korea, where it was practiced as a form of self-defense. The modern form of Taekwondo was developed during the 1940s and 1950s by various martial artists by combining and incorporating elements of Karate and traditional Korean martial arts such as Taekkyeon, Gwonbeop, and Subak. The name "Taekwondo" was coined in 1955 by General Choi Hong Hi, who is considered one of the founders of the modern art.

Techniques

Taekwondo is known for its emphasis on high, fast kicks and spinning kicks. The techniques are divided into several categories:

• Kicks (Chagi)
• Punches (Jireugi)
• Blocks (Makgi)
• Strikes (Chigi)
• Stances (Sogi)

Forms (Poomsae)

Forms, or Poomsae, are a series of movements and techniques performed in a specific sequence. They are used to practice the various techniques of Taekwondo and to develop precision, control, and power. Each form has a specific pattern and meaning, and they are often performed in competitions.

Sparring (Gyeorugi)

Sparring, or Gyeorugi, is a form of training where practitioners test their skills against each other in a controlled environment. It is an Olympic sport and is governed by the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF). Sparring matches are typically scored based on the accuracy and power of the techniques used.

Belt System

Taekwondo uses a belt system to signify the rank and progress of practitioners. The belts range from white (beginner) to black (expert), with various colors in between representing different levels of proficiency. The black belt itself has multiple degrees, indicating further advancement and expertise.

Organizations

Several organizations govern and promote Taekwondo worldwide, including:

• World Taekwondo Federation (WTF)
• International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF)
• Kukkiwon

Related Pages

• Martial arts
• Karate
• Judo
• Hapkido
• Kendo
• Kung Fu