The Art of Taekwondo
The way of the foot and fist
Taekwondo is type of unarmed combat with an emphasis on self defense. It is not just a fighting style, but additionally a way of thinking and a lifestyle that requires extreme discipline. Taekwondo is comes from the Korean words Tae, meaning foot, Kwon, meaning fist, and Do, meaning the way of. Taekwondo, or the way of the foot and fist, is a fitting definition for this particular fighting style.
Taekwondo is a martial art form that has evolved over the last 2,000 years to take shape in what we recognize today. It largely is derived from Korea and the surrounding countries
11 Commandments of Taekwondo
There are 11 commandments of modern Taekwondo that guide the overall lifestyle and framework. The commandments serve the purpose of providing a mentality and guidelines for a positive and morally sound way of life. The commandments are as follows:
- Loyalty to your country
- Faithfulness to your Spouse
- Respect your brothers and sisters
- Respect your teachers
- Indomitable spirit
- Finish what you begin
- Respect your parents
- Loyalty to your friends
- Respect your elders
- Never take life unjustly
- Loyalty to your school
Theory of Power
The theory of power refers to specific ways in which one can unlock their full and absolute potential. Using all six elements of the theory of power, students of Taekwondo can ultimately unlock an extremely high level of physical power.
- Reaction Force
Reaction Force relates and uses the simple law of physics. The Theory of Power references Newton’s Third Law of Motion, “for every action is an equal and opposite reaction,” because understanding the implications of physics will help unlock reaction force.
To sum it up, if someone is charging at you, it is possible to use your force AND their own force against them. The harder they are coming at you, the harder your punch or kick will land.
- Concentration
Harnessing a deep concentration adds onto the overall power a student of Taekwondo can unleash. Concentrating a punch into a small, specific area of an opponent’s body will cause more damage than the opposite. Additionally, extreme concentration is necessary to engage multiple muscle groups at once to generate the most power.
- Equilibrium
Balance is at the center of everything – life, relationships, and martial arts. Physical balance is essential to effective, devastating attacks. Without balance, attacks will be easily countered.
- Breath Control
Controlled breath stacks on the previous methods as a way of minimizing pain and also assists focusing for future attacks. A sharp exhale at the point of contact from an opponent will result in a tensing of the abdomen and generating power. Contrastly, a slow inhale will help the body and mind prepare for the next movement.
- Mass
Mass is used a way of literally throwing more weight behind a punch or kick. Shifting mass, generally by turning the hip, will deliver more force and speed to an attack.
- Speed
All around speed is valuable to martial art students. Physics is also the reason behind this one. The more speed of an attack, the more damage or force can be unleashed.
It all comes together
Combining all six elements in the Theory of Power unlocks and immense power that be used to immobilize any opponent. The dedication necessary to fully understanding the Theory of Power is tremendous, but ultimately can be the difference between life and death in combat.