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| Translated to English, Taekwondo literally means "the way of fist and foot." Characterized by powerful kicks and deflections by hand, this defensive martial art relieson the strength of both the body and the mind. Taekwondo promotes the development of discipline,respect, confidence, and self-control as well as challenging the student physically. Each belt rank engagesthe student in a new series of movements called forms. The beauty of the form is only trumped by its physicalpower. A student of Taekwondo grows as a person as he moves from one belt rank to the next. |
Tae = Foot |
| HISTORY |
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| According to records currently available, the practice of Taekwondo dates back to 50 B.C.It was developed by warring factions of the country now known as Korea. (The three kingdoms of Koreawere the Silla, Koguryo, and Paekche.) This supreme method of self-defense was practiced by elitewarriors and passed down from generation to generation. Belt forms often depict the nature of the warrioror kingdom for which the form is named. The stances and techniques of these warriors are remarkable becausethese same methods are still practiced today. Taekwondo is so well known and respected, it is one ofonly two martial arts involved in the Olympic Games. |
