Personal Interest

Taekwondo

Taekwondo or Tae Kwon Do is a Korean martial art with heavy emphasis on kicks. Taekwondo was first developed during the 1940's-1950's by Korean martial artists, the most-well known General Choi Hong Hi, as a combination of Okinawan karate, Chinese martial arts, and the indigenous traditions of taekkyeon and gwonbeop. Taekwondo is characterized by its emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques. Speed and agility is far more important than strength and power (which is important), and many should relax the body/muscles when performing kicks or jumps, instead of remaining tense. Also, the theory of power is practiced in taekwondo which is set of components which include, reaction force, concentration, equilibrium, breath control, mass, and speed. Usually taekwondo students wear white uniforms and their rank or level of experience can be indicated through their belts color which is tied around their waist. The darker the belt, the higher the rank. Taekwondo is usually practiced in gyms called dojangs, (not Dojos), which is basically a gym where martial arts is practiced. Overall, I believe this is a very interesting form of martial arts, and overall would love to practice it or join after researching it today. Don't be surprised to see me in a dojang anytime soon. :)