What is Taekwondo?

taekwondo

Taekwondo (pronounced tae kwan doo) is the modern term for an ancient martial art practiced in Korea. It is a striking art that incorporates blocks, punches and kicks and focuses on the leg’s greater reach and power compared to the arm. It also includes grappling and throwing techniques that are derived from other Asian martial arts, such as Hapkido and Judo.

While there are many differences between taekwondo styles and organizations, most emphasize a combination of kicking and punching thrown from mobile stances. The martial art also uses a variety of joint-locking techniques and groping to disable an opponent.

During sparring, the student learns to use proper technique to avoid injury and how to control an opponent. This is accomplished through the application of the principle of Reaction Force. This states that as one limb moves forward in a strike, other parts of the body should move backward to provide a counter-force and enhance the effectiveness of the strike. The use of full body strength also helps in this process.

Poomsae (patterns) are a set of pre-arranged defence and attack movements that become increasingly complex as the student progresses in his or her taekwondo training. This is done to develop the students ability to combine power, speed and flexibility in a choreographed performance. Poomsae competition is an important part of both Kup and Dan grading.

Sport Taekwondo is an Olympic discipline with a wide range of competitive opportunities for all ages and levels of experience. It is a sport for all and provides an excellent way to improve one’s fitness while building confidence, leadership skills and self-discipline. It can also be a great stress reliever and has been shown to help with depression. It also promotes positive values such as courtesy, integrity and perseverance and is known as the “art of oneness”.