What is Tae Kwon Do?

Tae Kwon Do (also known as Taekwondo or TKD) is the martial art of self-defense that came from Korea. It is one of the oldest martial arts in the world (over 2,000 years old). The meaning of the name Tae Kwon Do is an appropriate description of the key elements of this martial art: Tae (Foot), Kwon  (Hand), Do (Art).

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What about Tae Kwon Do in the U.S.?

In the 1950's a group of Korean master instructors travelled to America to spread the art. In the following decades Tae Kwon Do grew in popularity both as a martial art and as an international sport. In 1973 Korea hosted the first Tae Kwon Do World Championships and the World Tae Kwon Do Federation was established as the international governing body. Today the WTF has 120 separate countries as its members, which includes over 20 million Tae Kwon Doists, making Tae Kwon Do the most practiced martial art in the world.  Tae Kwon Do was introduced as an Olympic demonstration sport in the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. It later became a full medal sport at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

 

What are the general techniques learned as part of practicing Tae Kwon Do?

1. Forms (Poomsae)

2. Self-Defense (Ho-shin-sool)

3. Board Breaking (Kyukpa)

4. Sparring (Gyoroogi)

 

Each class typically includes a short period of silent meditation (Mook Sahang), warm up exercises, strength and cardiovascular training, and stretching.  Students begin sparring, after learning basic skills, partnership, cooperation, respect, and self-control. Little Tigers do not practice sparring.

 

Is Tae Kwon Do Safe?

While Tae Kwon Do is a physical sport, serious injuries are uncommon. At Master Chang's Yong-In Martial Arts, safety is a priority. We ensure safety by teaching correct techniques, encouraging cooperation and respect, taking care of our bodies through warm up exercises and training in strength and flexibility, and mandating use all appropriate safety gear for sparring. Studies have shown that there is a low rate of injuries in Tae Kwon Do competition; bruising is the most common injury.

 

Why practice Tae Kwon Do?

Practicing Tae Kwon Do engages both the mind and body, and a spirit of respect and cooperation. Mentally, practicing Tae Kwon Do develops focus, concentration, mental strength, and confidence. Physically, practicing Tae Kwon Do builds strength, stamina, balance, agility, speed, and flexibility. Socially, Tae Kwon Do teaches respect, cooperation, partnership, self-discipline, and leadership. At Master Chang's Yong-In Martial Arts, all of these are taught within a positive atmosphere of respect, enthusiasm, and encouragement.

 

Who can practice Tae Kwon Do?

Everyone! At Master Chang's Yong-In Martial Arts, we emphasize getting to know each student personally. We aim to make a connection with each student and their family. This personal knowledge of each student's talents and limitations allows us to help every student to reach their personal best. In practicing Tae Kwon Do, one is not competing with others, but working to achieve their personal best. Respect, partnership, and cooperation are central to practicing Tae Kwon Do, as although we are working toward personal goals, we cannot do it alone! We sincerely believe that every student can reach their full potential, both in Tae Kwon Do and in their lives through the practice of Tae Kwon Do.

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Where can I learn more about Chang's Yong-In Martial Arts?

If you like to learn more about the Dojang (도장), feel free to access the Edina Lifestyle magazine to learn more about the studio.

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