Definition
Taekwondo is a modern martial art derived from Korea. It is characterized by its fast, high and spinning kicks. Literally translated, tae means ‘foot’, kwon means ‘fist’ and do means ‘way’. Therefore, Taekwondo means The Way of the Foot and Fist, an effective form of unarmed combat. However, it is more than just a fancy form of kicking and punching. It is designed to cultivate a person into having a strong moral conscience through physical training, mental guidance and philosophical values. It is more than a system of bodily exercise. Taekwondo is also a way of life.
Brief History
Martial arts have existed since ancient times as a means of self defense, recreation and complete body and mind exercise. Archaeological sites throughout Asia boast the important historical context of martial arts through numerous cave paintings that illustrate and document the heritage. Korea is rich in such historical sites, over the last century numerous murals depicting ancient warriors in typical martial-art posture have been found decorating caves and tombs.
The earliest martial art forms in Korea were named according to the various regions that existed at the time. The names were handed down through generations to modern times. It was not until Korea’s liberation from Japanese rule in 1945 that these arts, practiced largely in secret during this period, were to enjoy a revival as the people sought to reaffirm their national identity. Through the popularity of the respective disciplines, the different skills of the various styles rapidly became more widely known and practiced. This, together with the cooperation of the Masters of these arts, paved the way for the collective name of ‘Taekwondo’ to be adopted formally in 1955.
The Taekwondo Tenets
Through regular and sustained practice, the Taekwondo student can develop many physical attributes that will prove useful in everyday life. Benefits often include better coordination, increased flexibility, improved cardiovascular conditioning and added strength. In addition to the pursuance of physical mastery of these techniques, positive mental disciplines are also developed along the way. Through its practice, one will learn the most important tenets of Taekwondo:
- Etiquette
- Modesty
- Perseverance
- Self Control
- Indomitable Spirit
By living these tenets, one will grow to become strong in character, gentle in temperament, modest in victory and humble in defeat.
Tournaments
Taekwondo is organized around a tournament structure with more established clubs organizing events. Other clubs consider it a great honour to be invited to such gatherings where their exponents spar or exchange pointers with other competitors.
The most common method of competing is a sparring match. Conducted between 2 individuals of about the same grade and weight category, it is closely judged to ensure fair play. The contest area is an 8m x 8m square (normally coloured blue) with a ring of width 2m encircling it (normally coloured red). The 2 contestants wear body armour of 2 colours, ‘Chung’ for Blue and ‘Hung’ for Red. Only punches with a tightly clenched fist or kicks are allowed. Punches to the face or hits below the lower abdomen are strictly forbidden. All vulnerable parts of the body are covered with padded protectors, for e.g. Shins, head, groin, etc.
One match consists of 3 rounds of 3 minutes each with a 1-minute recess between rounds. A referee, a time-keeper and 3 judges observe a match. Points are considered to be valid only when 2 or more judges award an effective hit.
An effective attack to the body obtains 1 point and an effective kick to the head gains 2 points. An attack that fazes the opponent gains an extra point. Points are also deducted based on penalties made depending on the seriousness of the act. The referee may deduct a point based on a prohibited act committed such as an accidental punch to the head while a more severe act like a deliberate kick to the groin may result in an instant disqualification.
The winner is determined by the most number of points scored at the end of the 3 rounds or a knockout by one of the contestants. In the event of a tie, a decision will be made by the judges based on the initiative shown by the individuals during the match.
