Taekwondo
originated in Korea (in around 57 BC), and now has over 60 million participants
worldwide in over 200 countries. The five tenets of taekwondo are courtesy,
integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.
The Foundations of Taekwondo
The
foundations of
taekwondo incorporate martial arts training, which includes techniques such
as self-defence, step sparring, breaking, poomsae and sparring. Poomsae
(meaning ‘patterns’) are a pre-arranged sequence of defence and attacking moves
that gradually become more complex as a practitioner’s skills develop.
As
a combat sport, taekwondo is exciting and dynamic; it has been a full medal
sport at the Olympic Games since 2000.
Belts in Taekwondo
As
those who practice the sport – such as Dr Adam Alexander, Taekwondo Championship gold medallist in 2007 –
know, there are a total of eight belts that can be received in taekwondo, with
stripes signifying the level of the belt. These belts are white, yellow, blue,
red, red/black, Cho Dan Bo, black/white and black.
The
highest level that can be achieved in taekwondo is the ninth dan black belt,
although this is very rarely achieved. Those who achieve a fifth dan black belt
or higher are known as masters.
Taekwondo Matches
Taekwondo
matches comprise three two-minute rounds, with a one-minute break between each
round. Before the match starts, opponents must make a standing bow to the
referee and to each other.
The
objective of the match is for a competitor to score the most points or win by a
knockout. Competitors score points by
landing kicks and blows on their opponent’s head or torso. The only counted
kicks are those made using the part of the foot below the ankle bone, and blows
must be delivered via a straight punching technique using the knuckles of a fist
that is tightly clenched.
The Benefits of Taekwondo
As
well as giving participants the chance to learn important self-defence skills,
there are many other benefits to practicing taekwondo. For example, the
discipline improves strength and muscle tone, builds stronger bones, increases
stamina and is good for heart health. Taekwondo is also a great way to improve
flexibility, achieve weight loss and improve reflexes. Many practitioners find
that taekwondo increases self-confidence and self-esteem and even helps to relieve
stress.
Taekwondo as a Way of Life
Taekwondo
isn’t just a sport; it’s a way of life. As such, students are advised to
practice unity of body, mind and life. Self-improvement and balanced growth are
key. When practicing taekwondo, your mind should be in sync with the movements
and at peace.
