What is Taekwondo?

(extract from a Rhee Taekwondo Grading booklet)

Tae Kwon-Do is the typical Korean Martial Art.

It is the "art of hand and foot fighting".

"TAE" literally means to jump or kick or smash with the foot.

"KWON" denotes a fist - chiefly to punch or destroy with the hand or fist.

"DO" means the art, or way, or method.

Thus taken collectively "Tae Kwon-Do" indicates the technique of un-armed combat for self-defence involving the skilled application of punches, flying kicks, blocks, dodges and interceptions with the hands, arms, feet for the rapid destruction of the opponent.

Tae Kwon-Do is the scientific Korean martial art which gives its practitioner not only an efficient form of self-defence but also a means of enhancing hie or her mental and physical well being.

Mental concentration, breathing and physical exercises of Tae Kwon-Do, besides producing tranquility and peace of mind also relax the joints, tone the muscles, strengthen the internal organs and develop agility, strength and stamina. Women adherents in addition acquire and maintain a beautiful form and figure. This art is thus beneficial for all ages and sexes.