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Tai Kwon Do
Tai Kwon Do or Taekwondo is a relatively new martial art. Evolving in Korea
between 1945 and 1955, tai kwon do is a uniquely nationalist martial art. It
is often said that tai kwon do is the most effective diplomatic tool in spreading
Korean culture throughout the world. Despite its Korean origin and its relative
young age, tai kwon do is actually highly influenced by Japanese karate. During
the Japanese occupation of Korea in the early 1900s, Japanese karate spread
throughout the country. However, following World War Two, Japanese karate hand
techniques began to be combined with the ancient Korean martial arts of Subak
and Taekkyon, a Korean kicking martial art, in an effort to bring a uniquely
Korean flavor to this art.
Records indicate that tai kwon do, a name derived from taekkyon, was created
by General Choi Honghi. Despite its young age, this martial art has spread globally
in popularity and in the year 2000 tai kwon do became a medal Olympic sport.
It is often said that tai kwon do is the most popular martial art style in the
world.
As a physical activity, tai kwon do has evolved into what can be described
as a martial sport. While competitive sparring is the image most associated
with tai kwon do, it is actually only one component of training. Taekwondo also
consists of practicing basic techniques that are usually kicks but also incorporates
hand strikes and blocks. Additionally, tai kwon do training utilizes the practicing
of sets of attack and defense techniques. There are also a variety of sparring
techniques used in tai kwon do that range from set sparring to competitive sparring.
While learning tai kwon do, you will be learning how to apply taekwondo techniques
in real-life situations where you will need to defend yourself. Another component
of tai kwon do training is breaking which is a test of speed, power, technical
skill, and courage.
When learning tai kwon do, it is important to follow the Eleven Commandments
of modern day Taekwondo, which are:
Be loyal to your country.
Be respectful to your parents.
Be faithful to your spouse.
Be loyal to your friends.
Be respectful to your brothers and sisters.
Be respectful to your elders.
Be respectful to your teachers.
Never take a life unjustly.
Retain an indomitable spirit.
Be loyal to your school.
Finish whatever you begin.
It is important to note that learning tai kwon do contains a number of important
benefits. As a martial art, tai kwon do can be applied in situations where you
require self-defense. However, tai kwon do also helps develop discipline and
you will recognize situations where it is appropriate to use your taekwondo
skills. Additionally, as a martial art, tai kwon do helps to enhance self esteem
by increasing your physical and mental powers. As an activity that requires
mental discipline and physical coordination, tai kwon do practitioners describe
the activity as having strengthened their mind and body.
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