What is Taekwondo?
Taekwondo (νκΆλ) is a Korean martial art famous for its spectacular high kicks and dynamic spinning techniques. The name means "the way of the foot and fist." Developed in the 1940s-50s, it became an Olympic sport in 2000 and is now practiced by over 80 million people worldwide.
Core Tenets
- Courtesy (Ye-ui): Respect for others
- Integrity (Yom-chi): Honesty and moral uprightness
- Perseverance (In-nae): Patience and persistence
- Self-Control (Guk-gi): Control of body and mind
- Indomitable Spirit (Baekjul-boolgool): Courage to stand for what's right
Signature Kicks
- Roundhouse Kick (Dollyo Chagi): The bread-and-butter technique
- Side Kick (Yeop Chagi): Powerful linear kick
- Back Kick (Dwit Chagi): Devastating spinning back kick
- Axe Kick (Naeryo Chagi): Downward striking kick
- Spinning Hook Kick (Dwit Huryo Chagi): Advanced knockout technique
- Tornado Kick: Spectacular 360Β° spinning kick
Training Components
- Poomsae/Forms: Choreographed patterns of techniques
- Kyorugi/Sparring: Competitive fighting with protective gear
- Kyukpa/Breaking: Breaking boards to demonstrate power
- Ho-sin-sul: Self-defense applications
- Physical Training: Flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness
Belt System
- White Belt: Beginner (10th Kup)
- Yellow Belt: 9th-8th Kup
- Green Belt: 7th-6th Kup
- Blue Belt: 5th-4th Kup
- Red Belt: 3rd-1st Kup
- Black Belt: Dan grades (1st Dan and higher)
Taekwondo in India
India has a thriving Taekwondo community with the Taekwondo Federation of India (TFI) affiliated with World Taekwondo. Indian athletes have won medals at Asian Championships and competed at Olympics. Training centers exist throughout the country with certified instructors.
Getting Started
Taekwondo is excellent for all ages, particularly popular with children. You'll need a dobok (uniform) and eventually sparring gear. Classes include warm-ups, stretching (flexibility is key!), basic techniques, forms practice, and controlled sparring. The structured belt system provides clear goals and progression.