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| Taekwondo is the name of a martial art turned modern international sport which has been independently developed over about 20 centuries in Korea. |
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What is Taekwondo?
Taekwondo is the name of a martial art turned modern international sport which has been independently developed over about 20 centuries in Korea. The main feature of Tae Kwon Do is that it is free-fighting combat sport using bare hands and feet to repel an opponent.
The most important fact about Taekwondo as a martial art sport is that it is not only a superior art of self-defense. It brings remarkable good sense to its practitioners. Self-confidence makes people generous in their attitudes toward weaker people. They can stand equally against any opponent, but their code forbids unfair assaults or unnecessary use if force. The practice of Taekwondo gives an individual the mental attitude of modesty. The virtues of modesty and generosity are fundamentally based on self-confidence.
The literal Translation of Tae Kwon Do is: A method of defending yourself with your hands and feet. Tae means jumping or flying, to kick or smash with the foot; Kwon: to punch or destroy with the fist; Do: the "art" or "way" of. It consists of sharp strong angular movements with free flowing circular movements to produce a balance of beauty and power.
Taek won do isn't just a fighting sport, it is a philosophy, a way of life. It was created by non-violent men to discourage violence.
The history of Taekwondo
In the early history of the Korean Peninsula, religious rituals would see Koreans sing and dance as an incantation for continuous harmony within the tribe and a good harvest. Naturally, tribes became rivals in their incantations, and martial art contests began to take place during the ritual seasons. Tae Kwon Do techniques developed through the three dynasties, and was seen as an essential part of physical and military training and also recommended as a recreational activity and for character building.
Taekwondo is now regarded as Korea's national sport and has seen its popularity spread worldwide .
Techniques in Taekwondo
A good technique is the physical foundation of practicing Taekwondo. Without technique, one can injure another easily, or you can get injured yourself.
The basic elements of Taekwondo
The basic elements of Taekwondo are: Forms, Breaking, and Step sparring.
Forms, or Poomses in Korean language, are a series of defending and attacking movements performed against imaginary opponents in a set pattern. Through the practice of forms, students come to learn the applications of various techniques of Tae kwon do. Forms serve a multi-dimensional role, aiding in the development and refinement of coordination, balance, timing, breath control and rhythm, all of which are essential skills to the Taekwondo student.
Breaking is the crushing of solid objects such as wood and bricks using body parts like hand blades, fists, elbows and feet. Sparring uses the techniques learnt from Form.
Daeryon or Step sparring is a training form with one attacker and one defender and which includes many kicks and punches;
Rules
Taekwondo competition is conducted by two contestants, Chong(blue) and Hong (red). Only punching and kicking techniques performed on front part of the body are allowed. Kicks are allowed only when attacking the face. Hits below the lower abdomen are forbidden. All vulnerable parts of the body are covered with protectors such as head gear, trunk protector, forearm and shin guards, groin guard and breast guard to prevent injuries during competition.
Experience Taekwondo program
For more information phone 02-336-6014¡5 - The Home of Korea Taekwondo Tour Information (www.taekwontour.com).
Both groups and individuals are welcome. With a one-hour-and-a-half or three-hour course, you can learn the basic techniques (Form), the art of self-defense, etc. If you choose to take part in the three-hour program, you will be issued with a certificate and may also get your picture taken wearing the Tae Kwon Do costume.
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| 04-08-2001 |
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