Taekwondo (sometimes written as taekwon-do or tae kwon do) is a Korean Martial art and also the national sport of South Korea. Looking at the worldwide number of practitioners, it is clear that taekwondo is the world’s most popular martial art.
Translated from Korean, ‘tae’ means foot, ‘kwon’ means fist, and ‘do’ means way (sometimes interpreted as art). Loosely translated, this results in: ‘the way of destroying with hands and feet’. Some translate it as: ‘the art of punching and kicking’.
Popularity of Taekwon-do
The popularity of taekwondo has led to the Martial art developing in various ways. The art or sport has different domains: fighting techniques, self-defense, art, sport, meditation, and philosophy. In both South and North Korea, taekwondo is part of the military training.
Styles of Taekwon-do: WT and ITF
Traditional taekwondo is actually not competition-oriented, but originates from military roots with a strong emphasis on lethal attack techniques. Modern taekwondo places more emphasis on control and self-defense.
There are formally two styles of this sport. These styles each have their own world organization: WT (World Taekwondo Federation) and ITF (International Taekwon-do Federation).
This is reflected in almost all aspects that taekwondo encompasses. The sparring competition system is completely different in both styles, as are the patterns.
When taekwondo is practiced in its complete form, sufficient attention is given to the main physical components: patterns (tuls or poomsee), sparring (kyorugi or matsogi), self-defense (hosinsul), breaking techniques (gyok pa), and special techniques. Studying the theory and philosophy is also an essential part of the curriculum.
Although there are major differences between the two main streams and between the different organizations, the art can generally be described as one that emphasizes powerful kicking techniques from a mobile stance. The practitioner uses the greater ‘reach’ and power of the leg compared to the arms.
The training generally includes a system of blocking, kicking, punching, open hand strikes, and sometimes various throws, sweeps, and joint locks.
Equipment for Taekwon-do
Different equipment is required for taekwon-do training. The type of uniform depends on the style. WT Taekwondo uses modern V-neck uniforms, while ITF Taekwon-do uses the authentic ITF dobok.
Additionally, shin guards and forearm protectors, a headgear, and chest protector are used in WTF Taekwondo.
In ITF, the so-called safety equipment is used, consisting of a pair of gloves and safety kicks. Nowadays, a headgear is almost always mandatory. Shin guards are also sometimes used in this style.
In both styles, a bitje is recommended and a groinguard is mandatory for men. Here you can find an overview of all necessary Taekwon-do equipment.
During training, various types of kicking shields, focus pads, and floppy mitts are often used.
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