In the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as other parts of the world, Tae Kwon Do is one of the most popular disciplines people use to learn self defense. The self defense tactics taught in this discipline are very effective, and the study of Tae Kwon Do has many benefits.
History of Tae Kwon Do
Tae Kwon Do is a martial art that was founding in the country of Korea. It's a self-defense style of martial art that employs self defense tactics such as combative techniques, philosophy, and exercise. Many people who study this martial art participate in sparring and tournaments and have come to treat the discipline as a recreational sport. Originally developed in Korea, it is influenced heavily by other martial arts from Japan, and China. Tae Kwon Do is the official national sport in the country of South Korea.
Loosely translated, the words Tae Kwon Do mean "the ways of the foot and fist." It's a fitting name for the sport, because almost all of the martial art's moves and techniques include jumps, spins, kicks, hand strikes, and blocks.
At the conclusion of the Korean War in 1953, only 10 Taekwondo schools were in existence in Korea to learn self defense tactics. But it wasn't too long after that the martial art was introduced to the people of North America. Texas is credited with teaching some of the very first classes. It was a man named Jhoon Rhee who led their instruction. During that time, many people inaccurately referred to Tae Kwon Do as Karate.
Students of the martial art are known for their white uniforms and black belt.
Tactics and Styles of Tae Kwon Do
Students of Tae kwon do learn the study of two major styles. The first is Kikkiwon, which includes a sparring system known as Gyeorugi. Gyerorugi has been a summer Olympic game since the year 2000, and it is ruled by WTF, the World Tae Kwon Do Federation. The second style of Tae Kwon Do is ruled by the ITF, or International Tae Kwon Do Federation.
Most students enroll in this martial art because the self defense tactics employed help to tone and strengthen the body's major muscle groups. They also help practitioners develop and maintain stamina, and they promote speed, agility, and flexibility.
The Basics
Strikes: Strikes and blows, the most familiar parts of Tae Kwon Do, include things like kicks, punches, and head-butts. They are offensive moves to wear down your opponent.
Takedowns: During a takedown you physically get your opponent on the ground.
Blocks: Blocks make up your repertoire of defense maneuvers. They protect you from your opponent's attempted strikes.
Tae Kwon Do remains one of the most popular ways to learn self defense. Young and old, male and female - everyone can benefit from the study of this martial art. The aerobic style workout can help everyone stay in top physical shape, reduce stress, sleep better and feel more energized and refreshed.
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