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Tae Kwon Do is the art of
self-defense that originated in Korea. It is recognized as one of the oldest
forms of martial arts in the world, reaching back over 2,000 years. The name
was selected for its appropriate description of the art: Tae (foot), Kwon
(hand), Do (art). Known for its fast, spinning, jump kicks, Tae Kwon Do's
reputation has grown immensely not only as a Sport (Sparring and Forms), but
also as a Martial Art that enhances one's life through the training of body
and mind. Tae Kwon Do training provides self-defense skills as well as
improved character, self-discipline, and confidence that can be applied to
any task.
Tae Kwon Do is a Martial Art for all ages. At Black Belt Tae Kwon Do
Academy, our Goal is to bring out the BEST in all of the students. Although
students are challenged both physically and mentally, they are taught
everything step-by-step in a positive and encouraging environment so they
can achieve SUCCESS!
Tae Kwon Do in the United States
The introduction of Tae Kwon Do in the United States began during the 1950's
when a handful of pioneering master instructors traveled to America to
spread the art. Throughout the next few decades Tae Kwon Do grew in
popularity, not only as a martial art, but as an international sport.
In 1973, Korea hosted the first Tae Kwon Do World Championships. In that
same year, the World Tae Kwon Do Federation(WTF) was established as the
international governing body for the sport aspects of Tae Kwon Do. Today the
WTF counts 120 separate countries as its members, representing 20 million
practitioners. These numbers earn Tae Kwon Do the distinction of being the
most practiced martial art in the world.
Tae Kwon Do first gained acceptance as an Olympic sport when it appeared as
a demonstration event in the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. Tae Kwon Do became a
full medal sport competition beginning in 2000 at the Sydney Olympics.
History of Tae Kwon Do
One of the earliest clues of Tae Kwon Do's existence is a mural painted on
the wall of a tomb that was built in the Korean kingdom of Koguryo, between
37 BC and 66 AD. The drawing shows two unarmed figures facing each other in
a Tae Kwon Do style stance. Additional drawings in the tomb show figures
performing blocks and wearing uniforms similar to those used in modern day
Tae Kwon Do training.
The advancement of Tae Kwon Do and its techniques developed as the country
of Korea developed. There are examples and history of Tae Kwon Do training
in virtually all the records of the different kingdoms that existed within
the country throughout the centuries.
The highest form of the ancient art was achieved in the kingdom of Silla.
This tiny kingdom constantly faced attacks and opposition from larger and
stronger areas. As a result the ruler of the kingdom, King Jin Heung,
established an elite group of warriors called the "Hwarang" or "Flower of
Youth".
The Hwarang consisted of the sons of nobles within the kingdom. They were
carefully selected and formally trained in all aspects of military skills
including unarmed combat, which at the time was known as Tae Kyon. It is
significant that the Hwarang were taught not only the importance of
developing their bodies, but their minds and spirits as well. In addition to
fighting techniques, the young warriors were instructed in history, poetry,
and philosophy. The entire body of study was known as Hwarang Do. The
Hwarang gained skills not only for battle, but for daily life. This relates
directly to modern Tae Kwon Do training, which provides self defense skills
as well as improved character, self-discipline, and confidence that can be
applied to any task.
Following the Silla dynasty came the Koryo dynasty (935 AD - 1352 AD) from
which Korea takes its name. Martial arts practice, known as Subak Do, became
popular as an organized sport with detailed rules. The royal family
sponsored competitions and demonstrations, and martial arts became deeply
rooted in Korean culture.
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