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 number of practitioners worldwide, 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 gives us: ‘the way of destroying with the 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 different ways. The art or sport has several 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 originated in the military, with a strong emphasis on lethal attack techniques. Modern taekwondo places greater emphasis on control and self-defense.
There are formally two styles of this sport. Both styles have their own world organization: WT (World Taekwondo Federation) and ITF (International Taekwon-do Federation).
This is reflected in virtually every aspect of taekwondo. 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 most important physical components: patterns (tuls or poomsae), sparring (kyorugi or matsogi), self-defense (hosinsul), breaking techniques (gyok pa), and special techniques. However, studying the theory and philosophy should also be included in the training program.
Although there are major differences between the two main branches and between the various organizations, the art can generally be described as one that emphasizes powerful kicking techniques from a mobile stance. Practitioners make use of the greater reach and power of the leg compared with the arms.
Training generally includes a system of blocking, kicking, punching, open-hand strikes, and sometimes various throws, sweeps, and joint locks.
Equipment for Taekwon-do
Various types of equipment are required for taekwon-do training. The type of uniform required varies by style. WT Taekwondo uses modern V-neck uniforms, while ITF Taekwon-do uses the authentic ITF dobok.
In addition, shin and forearm protectors, headgear, and a 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, headgear is also almost always mandatory. Shin guards are sometimes used in this style as well.
A mouthguard is recommended in both styles, and a groinguard is mandatory for men. Here you will find an overview of all the required Taekwon-do equipment.
During training, various types of kicking shields, focus pads, and floppy mitts are often used.
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