Taekwondo is the national art of Korea.
Its name includes three elements:
Tae = Kicking; Kwon = Punching; and Do = The Way.
Together, they characterize the basic features of Taekwondo:
powerful kicks and punches.
The word "Do" indicates that Taekwondo is not just a way of fighting.
It is a way of tuning one's mind and muscle, and of discipline.
The martial art of Taekwondo evolved in Korea over the course of many centuries. Since ancient times it has been regarded as either a deadly means of fighting or as a graceful and exciting sport. In modern times, both aspects are prevalent: many people now study Taekwondo to improve their health and to learn how to defend themselves. For others it is an exciting and enjoyable sport, with the possibility of entering international competitions.
Ancient forms of Taekwondo, notably Hwarang-do, were influenced by Confucianist and Buddhist philosophies prevalent in China. According to Wong Wang, the Buddhist priest who developed the philosophical side of hwarang-do, adherents were required to be brave, noble, scrupulous, and to have a refined sense of justice. They were expected to demonstrate loyalty to their families and, above all, to the monarch under whom they served; in short, they were on a elite group of upright citizens. Since taekyon required its students to have a finely honed mind as well as body, students practiced meditation. Even today, many Taekwondo classes begin and end with a brief meditation. In recent times, many of the ancient philosophical elements of Taekwondo have been abandoned. Nevertheless, students are constantly encouraged to build up their moral characters through good sportsmanship.
My name is Juan M. Torres and I am a 21 year-old Computer Programming student from Puerto Rico. I've been practicing Taekwondo for five years, and I possess a Black Belt in International Taekwondo, plus a Red Belt in World Taekwondo. Currently, I practice at the International Taekwondo Academy located in Toa Alta, Puerto Rico.
1. World Taekwondo Federation
2. International Taekwondo Federation
3. Martial Arts on the Web
4. Taekwondo Full Listing
5. Tus Angeles
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