Despite international recognition at the highest levels and official Olympic competition since the 1988, Taekwondo is often confused with other popular martial arts such as Karate or Kung Fu. The characteristic aspect of Taekwondo that distinguishes it from the rest is emphasis on long range striking and especially kicking techniques. Where other arts may dabble in the kicking game, Taekwondo takes a very deliberate, detailed, and scientific approach toward foot striking.
In short – Taekwondo is all about the kicks (60-80%).
Modern Kukki (national) Taekwondo is a dynamic martial art and sport with great emphasis on kicking techniques in the sporting context. Essential skills and assets to successful Kukki Taekwondo training include:
- Mobility
- Flexibility
- Agility
- Balance
- Coordination
- Speed
A strong yet quick and nimble foundation is necessary to effectively train and excel in the above areas.
Furthermore, our heritage at the North American Taekwondo dojang is rooted in the Chang Moo Kwan taekwondo tradition; one of the nine original Kwans (taekwondo schools) before the unified Kukkiwon Taekwondo curriculum.
Seven essential aspects of our Chang Moo Kwan heritage is found in our school emblem / the Chang Moo Kwan patch:
Each aspect of this patch is representative of an important aspect of our Taekwondo curriculum
- Shield (Self Defense)
- Dragon Head (Philosophy; Mental sharpness)
- Fist (Taekwondo system; Unity)
- Scroll (Student of the arts; Humility)
- Um/Yang (Action / Reaction; Balance)
- Nine stars (Nine schools; Diversity)
- Horse legs / body (Power in the legs)
2014 is the Year of the Horse (according to the Chinese / Pan-Asian Zodiac). You’ve never witnessed powerful legs until you’ve watched a horse move in front of you. The raw size and power of equines matched with their quickness and poise is something worthy of respect, especially if you train Taekwondo.
Power in the legs allows for stronger and quicker kicking techniques.
Power in the legs allows for the mobility and balance mentioned above.
Power in the legs is the lifeblood of true Taekwondo training.
What better time to train Taekwondo than the year of the horse??