The Basics of Tae Kwon Do

Tae Kwon Do is a modern martial art, well known all around the world for its lightning fast, often high, spectacular spin kicks. Tae Kwon Do has been around for many years, originally founded in Korea . It translates to “the are of punching and kicking”, or the “art of unarmed combat”.

Four Disciplines of Tae Kwon Do

The martial art Tae Kwon Do has four disciplines - patters, self defense, break test, and sparring. The art is making up by combination of these disciplines, but not even one. All 4 of them are important, especially for those looking to advance in belt ranking. To advance in a belt, there are certain tests that students need to pass.

One of the great things about Tae Kwon Do is the fact that there are no age limits, and young children can easily learn it. Children of all ages will quickly learn fast reactions playing games, learn respect, and they will learn their abilities as well as their disabilities.

Tae Kwon Do Competitions

The competitions however, are a bit different for children than they are for the adults. Even though the participants will wear full body protection, children can only kick and punch to the body, as no shots to the head are allowed. The competitions in Tae Kwon Do are what make the art so very dominating. A majority of students that practice this martial art do so because of the competitions.

The competitions can be very exciting to watch, as they can get very competitive. Contrary to what many may think, the competitions aren’t deadly, nor are they anywhere close to being as dangerous as Muay Thai fights. Competitors will wear full protection, including headgear. For adults, kicks to the head are allowed, although a majority of stylists can block them before they make impact.

To participate in the competitions, stylists will need to have a certain level of experience. It can take years to become acceptable, especially for those who win. Competitions are a great way to learn, especially if there are participating fighters from other areas of the world. The skill of a stylist is a very significant factor with the competitions and tournaments. If you have a black belt fighter going against a white belt - the results will normally be obvious.

All things aside, the art of Tae Kwon Do is a great martial art. Stylists can learn kicking, punching, blocking, and known for the spectacular movements of the art. Tae Kwon Do is practiced all around the world, meaning that there are just as many places to learn this art as there are Karate. For an art that won’t disappoint - Tae Kwon Do teaches self defense and a whole lot more.