What is Taekwondo?
WTF Taekwondo is a traditional Korean Martial Art and Olympic Sport. It combines combat and self-defence techniques with sport and exercise. Gyeorugi (pronounced kyrugi), a type of sparring, has been an Olympic event since 2000. Taekwondo was developed by a variety of Korean masters during the 1940s as partial combination of taekkyeon, Okinawan karate, and other traditions.
A brief history
The system of Taekwondo began approx 3000 years ago and was developed as a fighting art for Warriors to defend themselves without weapons. Over time it has evolved and developed into a popular Martial Art and Olympic Competitive Combat Sport.
Taekwondo is growing all over the world. Its increasing popularity is evidenced by the 60 million students of this martial art in 179 countries. International competition continues to advance this martial art through events such as the World Championships and the Olympic Games.
Sport Taekwondo
The WTF (World Taekwondo Federation) is in charge of how Taekwondo is practised throughout the world. They also hold the mandate for Olympic Taekwondo. The WTF have a grading system so that students may develop and progress. Each belt colour symbolises a different stage in the student’s development.
Children Taekwondo
Children can benefit from practising Taekwondo. Taekwondo offers all of the traditional aspects of a martial art that you would expect that can aid a child, as well it’s dynamic sport events.
- Physical Strength and Balance
- Concentration
- Respect and Discipline
- Self-Confidence
- Reduced Aggression
- Etiquette inside and outside the Dojang
Adult Taekwondo
Adult Taekwondo is different from Children’s Taekwondo. Although the same syllabus is taught, the methods are different as the physical and mental abilities reach further apart with their ability and age levels. Taekwondo can be practised all the way up to those who are in their mid 90s!
Classes for Adults tend to focus more on the fitness and flexibility side of training to aid a healthy lifestyle. Students are taught how to look after their bodies with modern lifestyles, as well as learning traditional self-defence and mental discipline.
All levels of fitness and flexibility can train in Taekwondo.