What is it?
TaeKwonDo is the name of the Korean art many people think of as Karate (Japanese
for 'empty hand'). It is a popular sport throughout the world, but it has
much more to offer than entertainment and physical fitness. TaeKwonDo contains
a philosophy; a code of ethics; a set of values that can be literally be
called 'a way of life'. TaeKwonDo is called an 'art' for several reasons.
As with any other form of 'art', TaeKwonDo requires time, patience and diligent
practice to perform the techniques with skill. When performed correctly,
the movements are graceful, coordinated and aesthetically beautiful. TaeKwonDo
allows room for improvement, as no one can perform each techniques perfectly
each time. There is always room for growth and creativity. In TaeKwonDo,
the techniques can be adapted, added to or created to meet any circumstance.
How would it benefit me?
The benefits of martial arts training are endless. To become skilled
in the techniques of TaeKwonDo, one must develop the ability
to create power by utilizing the elements of speed, energy and
control. Many people also take up TaeKwonDo for the purpose of
self-defense. TaeKwonDo not only improves your physical well-being.
It also promotes good mental-health and increases one's confidence,
adequacy and self-esteem. Children learn the importance of discipline,
self-control and respect for others.
THE ART OF HAP KI DO
HapKiDo is an ancient Korean fighting system which sprang from
the same roots as TaeKwonDo. However, there are several differences
between the two arts. 'HapKiDo' means the art (DO) of coordinating
(Hap) energy or power (Ki), is an art which balances "hard" and "soft", "linear" and "circular"; "resistance" and "acceptance".
HapKiDo unifies the arts of TaeKwonDo, Karate with TaiChi and Judo.
It is based on the principles of both the hard and soft styles,
permitting a great range of techniques and increased flexibility
of responses to an attack. In all, there are over 5,000 different
techniques that comprise the martial art of HapKiDo. |
