WHAT IS TAEKWONDO?

Taekwondo is a Korean self defence martial art which in English translates as foot and hand way. It dates back from the 19th century, and is well known for focusing on a variety of kicking techniques derived from martial arts styles such as Karate and Kung Fu.

THE COMMANDS

Charyot: Korean meaning “Attention” Gyeongnye: Korean meaning “Bow” Choon Bee: Korean meaning “Ready Stance” See-Jak: Korean meaning “Begin” Keu-Mahn: Korean meaning “Finish (Stop)”

THE BELTS 1 White signifies a stage of

innocence such as that of the novice student with no prior knowledge of Taekwondo.

Yellow signifies the earth from which a plant sprouts and takes root as the Taekwondo foundation is being laid.

Green signifies the plants growth as the Taekwondo seed begins to develop, so the students skill develops.

THE BELTS 2 Blue signifies the heaven

towards which the plant matures into a towering tree as the training in Taekwondo progresses.

Red signifies danger, cautioning the student to exercise self-control, and warning the opponent to stay away.

Black is the opposite of white, signifying both maturity and proficiency in Taekwondo. It also symbolises the wearer’s imperviousness to darkness and fear.

THE STANCES 1

Front Stance:

Back Stance:

THE STANCES 2

Ready Stance:

Riding Stance:

Tiger Stance:

THE STRIKES

PunchPalm-Heel StrikeKnife-Hand StrikeSpare-Finger StrikeArc-Hand StrikeRidge-Hand Strike

THE KICKS

Ap Chagi/Front Kick Dollyo Chagi/Turning Kick Yeup Chagi/Side Kick Naeryeo Chagi/Axe Kick Dwi Chagi/Back Kick Bandal Chagi/Cresent Kick Huryeo Chagi/ Hook Kick

THE BLOCKS

Low Section Block High Section Block Inner Block Outer Block Wedging Block Cross Block

POOMSE

Poomse Is the Korean meaning for “Pattern”. This is a short display that uses specified sequences including strikes, kicks, and blocks demonstrating a students knowledge of Taekwondo.