Taekwondo is a distinctive Korean martial art that requires no weapons - the word translates literally to the way of kicking feet and striking hands. It has been practiced for over 2,000 years by kings, soldiers and civilians as a form of instinctive self-defense and to improve one's physical fitness, health and inner peace.
The name says it all. "Tae" refer to the lower body, everything below the belt, particularly the legs (i.e.: running and jumping, strength and power, spinning and kicking). "Kwon" refers to the torso and is concerned with everything done by the arms and hands (i.e.: striking and blocking, speed and snap). Together, "Tae" & "Kwon" represent the physical aspect of Taekwondo.
"Do" is the philosophical foundation of Tae & Kwon. It refers to everything from the neck up. It represents the spiritual nature of Taekwondo. It is concerned with the mind which in turn governs the body. Together, "Tae, Kwon & Do" form a harmony of mind and body. There cannot be any separation of these elements.
"Principles of physics underlying its many techniques...how the momentum leads to the force of the blow....and how angular momentum is important to the generation of power and force in turning kicks"
Only those who consider its philosophical character can hope to elevate themselves to the mastery which makes Taekwondo an art rather than a mere assortment of physical techniques.
"The Taekwondo concept is heavy on discipline. It is an art form that has been developed over the past 2,000 years on sound scientific principles. It is a totally systemized form where the patterns of stance are derived from the axioms of geometry. There are 50 or more hand movements and more than 200 kicks, all brought together by form, technique and proper breathing.
Taekwondo has spread across western cultures as a Korean Martial Art, a form of scientific self defence, and as an amateur sport now recognized by the International Olympic Committee as an official medal event at the Olympic Games.
