The Korean martial art that has become synonymous with kickboxing techniques used throughout the world is known as tae kwon do. This martial art is touted as a beneficial way of life that helps you develop insight and discipline while strengthening your body and mind. Political turmoil in Korea split the art into two different governing bodies in the North and South, with the World Tae Kwon Do Foundation, or WTF, in the North, and the International Tae Kwon Do Association, or ITA, in the South. The two bodies have different philosophies, with the WTF focused more on the sport aspect of tae kwon do and the ITA focused on the traditional art. But the basic philosophy of the art remains unchanged.
Definition
The Korean tae kwon do means the "art (or way) of kicking and punching." Like most martial arts, tae kwon do is designed to teach students how to defend themselves using only their hands and feet, but it goes much further than that. Tae kwon do is a fighting style developed to help focus your "ki," or internal strength, using the principles of physics to generate power. It teaches students discipline and self-respect, while engendering a sense of calm and confidence.
Recognition
The name tae kwon do refers to the "art of kicking and punching." This Korean martial art is known internationally for its focus on high kicks to the head. It is one of the more beautiful fighting styles to watch because it encompasses fast, linear hand strikes as well as flashy kicks to the head and upper body. If you've ever watched a karate movie on television that incorporated jumping and spinning kicks to the head, you were watching a person who has trained in tae kwon do.
Rankings
Like most martial arts, tae kwon do students begin at the white-belt level. As the students progress in their training, they move up in the belt ranks. The general belt-ranking system in tae kwon do begins at the white belt, then yellow belt, green belt, red belt, brown belt and black belt. While different schools and organizations may include different ranks inside each belt level, this is the general progression of the rankings. Often, students who progress to the black-belt level continue training throughout their lives.
Classes
Tae kwon do classes are taught by black-belt instructors who have years of training. The classes generally begin with a warm-up that incorporates kicking and punching movements to get muscles ready for the workout. The class then often breaks off into pairs to practice techniques against a partner. Forms, or motions that simulate protecting yourself from an attack, are also taught during each class. The class often ends with some light contact sparring among the higher ranks to help show the beginners what true tae kwon do sparring looks like.
Posted in: Kickboxing