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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Kukkiwon PoomDan Comparison

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art characterized by its emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques. Originating in Korea, Taekwondo combines combat and self-defense techniques with sport and exercise. In 1955, a group of Korean martial arts leaders chose Taekwondo as the definitive name for their martial art, aiming to promote Korean national identity following the end of Japanese occupation. The name can be translated as "the way of foot and fist", derived from the Korean words 태권 (Tae, "to strike or break with foot") and 도 (Do, "way" or "art").

History

Taekwondo's history is often divided into ancient, modern, and contemporary periods. The ancient period is marked by the use of Taekwondo techniques in various Korean kingdoms as a form of military training. The modern period began in the mid-20th century when Korean martial artists consolidated various martial arts practices into what is now known as Taekwondo. This period saw the formation of the Korea Taekwondo Association in 1961 and the establishment of Taekwondo as a national sport of Korea. The contemporary period is highlighted by Taekwondo's inclusion in the Olympic Games as a demonstration sport in 1988 and as an official medal sport in 2000.

Philosophy

Taekwondo is not just a physical activity but also a practice that includes a philosophy of life. Practitioners, known as taekwondoin, are taught to live by a moral code which includes principles such as courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. These principles are intended to guide students not only in their practice but in their daily lives.

Techniques

Taekwondo techniques are divided into three main categories: poomsae (forms), gyeorugi (sparring), and kyukpa (breaking). Poomsae are predefined patterns of defense-and-attack motions practiced to improve technique, body position, and mental discipline. Gyeorugi, a type of sparring, has been developed into a competitive sport where points are scored for techniques landed on the opponent's scoring zones. Kyukpa involves breaking boards or bricks and is used to test the practitioner's power and precision.

Organizations

The sport and practice of Taekwondo are overseen by two main international organizations: the World Taekwondo Federation (WT), which focuses on Taekwondo as a competitive sport, and the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), which emphasizes the art and self-defense aspect of Taekwondo. Each organization hosts its own world championships and has its own set of rules for competition.

Cultural Impact

Taekwondo has become a global sport and cultural phenomenon, with millions of practitioners worldwide. It is taught in schools, private dojangs (training halls), and has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and other media, contributing to its popularity and the spread of Korean culture internationally.