"Tae" stands for jumping or flying to kick or hit with the foot. "Kwon" denotes the fist - chiefly to punch or block with the hand or fist. "Do" means an art or way. It is the scientific use of the body in the method of self-defence; a body that has gained the ultimate use of its facilities through intensive physical and mental training.
Taekwon-Do is a self-defence martial art where you use your hands and feet to defend and if necessary to attack. You are always on your feet. Other martial arts combine the hands and feet with either throws to the floor, trips or weapons. You can practice Taekwon-Do while using very little body contact with you partner.
It helps develop self-confidence, self-discipline, self-defence, co-ordination and provides good physical fitness; strength and flexibility.
Yes, Ontario Taekwon-Do Federation (OTF), Canadian Taekwon-Do Federation International (CTFI), North American Taekwon-Do Federation (NATF) and finally the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF).
5 years of age and up. Boys and girls, women and men.
Yes, all students must wear the official Taekwon-do uniform: "dobook". This signifies uniformity amongst the students as well as respect for the school, instructor and the art. Uniforms can be obtained through the school.
Anywhere from 3 to 5 years... it all depends of the amount of time you devote to training and if you feel you are ready to be tested.
You have to learn all the basic skills in Taekwon-Do; patterns, theory, hand and feet techniques and moral culture. Then, you must be re-tested to ensure that you fully understand the skills required for that level. If you are of a lower level, you do not necessarily have to be re-tested for your current level, but you will for subsequent levels.
It depends on the degree of the handicap and the amount of determination you have. Almost anything is possible if you have your heart in it.
We compete in Friendship tournaments and Regional, Provincial, National and International Taekwon-Do Championships.
No, but for a good learning experience, I recommend that my students participate in patterns and/or sparring. If they do not wish to participate, I encourage then to come and cheer on their school mates and to volunteer their services if help is required.
It depends on the level of the belts. Usually 2 to 4 months for lower levels and 5 to 12 months for higher ones. There are 9 tests before you can obtain your black belt.
You start off with a white belt followed by yellow stripe, yellow belt, green stripe, green belt, blue stripe, blue belt, red stripe, red belt, black stripe and then black belt. Once at the black belt level, you can then obtain degrees; from 1 to 9... but that one belong to the Father of Taekwon-Do, General Choi Hong Hi.
Taekwon-Do and Jiu-Jitsu are your choice for a primary program. Enrol in either one and for a nominal fee you can join the secondary one. When enrolled in either, you can join the Kickboxing classes for no additional charges.
