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About taekwondo
Taekwondo is a Korean Martial Art in which we not only learn physical skills using our bare hands and feet, but more importantly, discipline and self-control. Taekwondo is a means by which to discipline one’s mind. One of the features of Taekwondo that distinguishes it from the other Martial Arts is the emphasis on strong kicking techniques.
Taekwondo became an official Olympic sport in the 2000 Sydney Olympics, and today, 206 countries are registered with World Taekwondo (WT) and the number of total Taekwondo trainees is estimated at 80-90 million people.
Taekwondo can be categorized into three training areas: kyorugi (sparring), poomsae (patterns), and shiboem (demonstration) - which are described below in further detail.
KYORUGI
Sparring
Kyorugi is done with adequate equipment to maximize safety – it’s an excellent way to develop courage and one of the 5 tenets of Taekwondo, an Indomitable Spirit.
POOMSAE
Patterns
Poomsae, are forms composed of different taekwondo techniques including attacks, blocks, and kicks. Practicing poomsae can help with focus, self-control, flexibility, and muscle coordination (especially for children).
SHIBOEM
Demonstration
Shiboem have recently become popular worldwide. It is a performance of Taekwondo techniques which includes board breaking, synchronized poomsae, self-defence scenarios (non-contact sparring) and even theatrical components.