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