Definition of Taekwondo
Taekwondo is the famous martial art form of Korea and a national sport. The name taekwondo is a combination of three Korean words; ‘tae’ meaning striking with foot, ‘kwon’ meaning hitting with fist and ‘do’ meaning method. On combining the three, the definition of taekwondo is the method of fighting that involves striking with feet and fists. Taekwondo is a perfect combination of sports, exercise, and self-defence, and also involves various combat techniques. Since it is of recent origin, it is also called modern martial art.
Taekwondo is a perfect combination of sports, exercise, and self defence
History of Taekwondo
Taekwondo is believed to be a blend of Korea’s oldest forms of martial arts and other combat arts that poured into Korea after its invasion by counties like Japan. Some parts of Korea were also exposed to other forms of martial arts from China and Manchuria. The earliest form of martial art in Korea consisted of various combat techniques that were made to train the fighters to be speedy, strong and help them survive in all conditions. Some of these techniques were subak and taekkeyeon. All these arts faded during Korea’s invasion. Later in the 1950′s, taekwondo rose up as the most popular sport in Korea.
Taekwondo is the youngest sport to be introduced into Olympics
Description of Taekwondo
Taekwondo can be practiced as a workout and is also a famous form of competitive sport. Taekwondo competitions involve breaking, sparring and self-defence techniques. It is also the youngest sport to be introduced into Olympics. Competitions occur in two different age categories; 14-17 years, 18 and above.
Rules and regulations for taekwondo are set up by the International Taekwon-Do Federation.
Some of the rules are listed below:
• Any attacks to head by hand or foot are not allowed.
• The total area of the competition may be 9×9 metres or 8×8 metres depending upon the competition.
• Points can be scored by the following ways:
1. Punch to head or body earns 1 point.
2. Kicks to the body of the opponent award 2 points to the player.
3. A head kick gives 3 points.
