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| Questions?? Please allow me to be your guide. |
| TID BITS Nature rarely speaks. A whirlwind doesn't even last a whole morning. A rainstorm starts and ends in a single day. Such things are made by heaven and earth. If heaven and earth can't make a storm last, how can you? -Lao Tzu |
| Information |
 |
| ITF Crest There is a blue circle and two half circles inside it, one on the top and one on the bottom. The top circle represents heaven and the bottom circle represents earth. In between these two there is the image of a fist and "Tae" and "Kwon" in Korean on ether side of it. A wavy line connects heaven to earth though Taekwon-Do. Around this image we have International Taekwon-Do Federation in English. |
General Choi in the Korean War Gen. Choi Hong Hi is mentioned in the book From Pusan to Panmunjom: Wartime Memoirs of the Republic of Korea's First Four-Star General and is written by Gen. Paik Sun Yup. On page 142, Gen. Paik states: "When I took over ROK I Corps, my major staff officers included Brig. Gen. Chang Chang Kuk as deputy corps commander, Brig. Gen. CHOI HONG HI as chief of staff, Col. Kim Pyong On as G-1, Col. Shin Chae Sik as G-2, Col. Kong Kuk Chin as G-3, and Col. Kim Yong Taek as G-4. This group of select, competent officers was unmatched anywhere in the ROK Army." Choi Pronunciation There is no "oy" in Korean. It is actually the combination of 'o' and 'ee', but pronounced as something in between 'Cho' and 'Chae'. Koreans are a very polite people. They have been too polite to tell others how to pronounce their names correctly and thus let this pronunciation perpetuate. |
The Korean writing is organized in syllables and
letters. The Korean alphabet is very easy to learn
(in about three days). Previously, Chinese writing
was used in Korea which is not appropriate to
describe the Korean language. Nowadays, Chinese
is used in official terms only.
For example, the word "TAEKWONDO" is described
here:
TAE KWON DO
TAEKWONDO consists of three syllables. Every
syllable is composed of several letters (here: two -
four - two)
TAE consists of T and AE
KWON consists of K , WO and N
DO consists of D and O
letters. The Korean alphabet is very easy to learn
(in about three days). Previously, Chinese writing
was used in Korea which is not appropriate to
describe the Korean language. Nowadays, Chinese
is used in official terms only.
For example, the word "TAEKWONDO" is described
here:
TAE KWON DO
TAEKWONDO consists of three syllables. Every
syllable is composed of several letters (here: two -
four - two)
TAE consists of T and AE
KWON consists of K , WO and N
DO consists of D and O
Training Secrets
- To study the theory of power thoroughly (Reaction Force,
Concentration, Balance, Breath Control, Sine Wave, and
Speed). - To understand the purpose and method of each movement
clearly. - To bring the movement of the eyes, hands, feet and breath
into a single coordinated action. - To choose the appropriate attacking tool for each vital spot.
- To become familiar with the correct angle and distance for
attack and defense. - Keep both the arms and legs bent slightly while the
movement is in motion. - All movements must begin with a backward motion with very
few exceptions. However, once the movement is in motion it
should not be stopped before reaching the target. - To create a sine wave during the movement by utilizing the
knee spring properly. - To exhale briefly at the moment of each blow except a
connecting motion.
| Student Oath I shall observe the tenets of Taekwon-Do |
Students Responsibility
- Never tire of learning. A good student can learn anywhere,
any time. This is the secret of knowledge. - A good student must be willing to sacrifice for his art and
instructor. Many students feel that their training is a
commodity bought with monthly dues, and are unwilling to
take part in demonstrations, teaching and working around
the do jang. An instructor can afford to lose this type of
student. - Always set a good example for lower ranking students. It is
only natural they will attempt to emulate senior students. - Always be loyal and never criticize the instructor, Taekwon-
Do or the teaching methods. - If an instructor teaches a technique, practise it and attempt
to utilize it. - Remember that a student's conduct outside the do jang
reflects on the art and instructor. - If a student adopts a technique from another do jang and
the instructor disapproves of it the student must discard it
immediately or train at the gym where the technique was
learned. - Never be disrespectful to the instructor. Though a student
is allowed to disagree with instructor, the student must first
follow the instruction and then discuss the matter latter. - A student must always be eager to learn and ask questions.
- Never betray the instructor.
Charter of Taekwon-Do
PREAMBLE Since Taekwon-Do is an art of self defence which
aims at a noble moral rearmament, high degree of intellectual
achievement, graceful techniques, formidable power and
beauty of physical form, it can be considered as a part of one's
daily life, just as are breathing and thinking. As the founder of
Taekwon-Do, I would like to define its philosophy, principles,
and purposes so that these might be applied to bring about the
flowering of morality, beauty, and power in harmony with the
immortal spirit.
PART 1. Through scientific practice of Taekwon-Do one can
significantly improve his health and nourish his intellect. One
can be in a position to aid others in the cause of justice,
thereby promoting social ethics and morals, thus helping to
bring about a happier and more peaceful society.
PART 2. In order to come to terms with life, in spite of its
detestable aspects, and with the idea of death, one ought to
continue studying the art of Taekwon-Do to learn techniques of
power and grace, and to enlarge his spiritual realm. This the
motivations to study shall be an inheritance to limitless value
succeeding generations.
PART 3. Human beings come into the world with simple needs
and desires. They need not become avaricious but ought to
remain always humble and merciful, never compromise their
principles, nor be swayed by selfish motives, to insure freedom
and independence of Taekwon-Do so that it will be passed on
in its pure form.
PART 4. Since all students of the art are subject to the same
rules of conduct and judged according to the same criteria
regardless of their stations in life, their origins, and their
religious convictions, they demonstrate to the world the
essential equality and brotherhood of man.
PART 5. Modern society is characterized by selfish
preoccupation with material excess and unnecessary
dependence on machines. Moral society is characterized by
self discipline, sacrifice, and devotion. Dedication to the art
can promote change toward a moral society.
PART 6. Those who devote themselves to their fellows and live
accordingly to the dictates of their consciences are always
helpful toward their juniors and show respect toward their
instructors and their seniors.
CONCLUSION A beginning constitutes a significant part of the
whole endeavour. Therefore, students of Taekwon-Do should
not fail to take action whenever to do so might benefit the
society. If he behaves thus, he himself will benefit most.
PREAMBLE Since Taekwon-Do is an art of self defence which
aims at a noble moral rearmament, high degree of intellectual
achievement, graceful techniques, formidable power and
beauty of physical form, it can be considered as a part of one's
daily life, just as are breathing and thinking. As the founder of
Taekwon-Do, I would like to define its philosophy, principles,
and purposes so that these might be applied to bring about the
flowering of morality, beauty, and power in harmony with the
immortal spirit.
PART 1. Through scientific practice of Taekwon-Do one can
significantly improve his health and nourish his intellect. One
can be in a position to aid others in the cause of justice,
thereby promoting social ethics and morals, thus helping to
bring about a happier and more peaceful society.
PART 2. In order to come to terms with life, in spite of its
detestable aspects, and with the idea of death, one ought to
continue studying the art of Taekwon-Do to learn techniques of
power and grace, and to enlarge his spiritual realm. This the
motivations to study shall be an inheritance to limitless value
succeeding generations.
PART 3. Human beings come into the world with simple needs
and desires. They need not become avaricious but ought to
remain always humble and merciful, never compromise their
principles, nor be swayed by selfish motives, to insure freedom
and independence of Taekwon-Do so that it will be passed on
in its pure form.
PART 4. Since all students of the art are subject to the same
rules of conduct and judged according to the same criteria
regardless of their stations in life, their origins, and their
religious convictions, they demonstrate to the world the
essential equality and brotherhood of man.
PART 5. Modern society is characterized by selfish
preoccupation with material excess and unnecessary
dependence on machines. Moral society is characterized by
self discipline, sacrifice, and devotion. Dedication to the art
can promote change toward a moral society.
PART 6. Those who devote themselves to their fellows and live
accordingly to the dictates of their consciences are always
helpful toward their juniors and show respect toward their
instructors and their seniors.
CONCLUSION A beginning constitutes a significant part of the
whole endeavour. Therefore, students of Taekwon-Do should
not fail to take action whenever to do so might benefit the
society. If he behaves thus, he himself will benefit most.
Theory of Power
The beginning student may ask; Where does one obtain the power to
create the devastating results attributed to Taekwon-Do? This power is
attributed to the utilization of a persons full potential through the
mathematical application of Taekwon-Do techniques. The average
person uses only 10 to 20 percent of their potential. Anyone,
regardless of size, age, or sex who can condition themselves to use
100 percent of their potential can also perform the same destructive
techniques.
Though training will certainly result in a superb level of physical
fitness, it will not necessarily result in the acquisition of extraordinary
stamina or superhuman strength. More important, Taekwon-Do training
will result in obtaining a high level of reaction force, concentration,
equilibrium, breath control and speed; these are the factors that will
result in a high degree of physical power.
Reaction Force
Concentration
Equilibrium
Breath Control
Mass
Speed
Reaction Force - Bandong Ryok
According to Newton's Law, every force has as equal and opposite
force. When an automobile crashes into a wall with the force of 2,000
pounds, the wall will return a force of 2,000 pounds; or forcing the end
of a seesaw down with a ton of weight will provide an upward force of
the same weight; if your opponent is rushing towards you at a high
speed, by the slightest blow to his head, the force with which you
strike their head would be that of their own onslaught plus that of your
blow.
The two forces combined; theirs, which is large, and yours, which is
small are quite impressive. Another reaction force is your own. A punch
with the right fist is aided by pulling back the left fist to the hip.
Concentration - Jip Joong
By applying the impact force onto the smallest target area, it will
concentrate the force and therefore, increase its effect. For example,
the force of water coming out of a water hose is greater if the orifice is
smaller. Conversely, the weight of a man spread out on snow shoes
makes hardly any impression on the snow. The blows in Taekwon-Do
are often concentrated onto the edge of the open palm or to the crook
of the fingers.
It is very important that you should not unleash all your strength at the
beginning but gradually, and particularly at the point of contact with
your opponent's body, the force must be so concentrated as to give a
knock-out blow. That is to say, the shorter the time for the
concentration, the greater will be the power of the blow. The utmost
concentration is required in order to mobilize every muscle of the body
onto the smallest target area simultaneously.
In conclusion, concentration is done in two ways: one is to concentrate
every muscle of the body, particularly the bigger muscles around the
hip and abdomen (which theoretically are slower than the smaller
muscles of other parts of the body) towards the appropriate tool to be
used at the proper time; the second way is to concentrate such
mobilized muscles onto the opponent's vital spot. This is the reason
why the hip and abdomen are jerked slightly before the hands and feet
in any action, whether it be attack or defence.
Remember, jerking can be executed in two ways: laterally and vertically.
Equilibrium - Kyun Hyung
Balance is of utmost importance in any type of athletics. In Taekwon-Do,
it deserves special consideration. By keeping the body always in
equilibrium, that is, well balanced, a blow is more effective and deadly.
Conversely, the unbalanced one is easily toppled. The stance should
always be stable yet flexible, for both offensive and defensive
movements.
Equilibrium is classified into both dynamic and static stability. They are
so closely inter-related that the maximum force can only be produced
when the static stability is maintained through dynamic stability.
To maintain good equilibrium, the centre of gravity of the stance must
fall on a straight line midway between both legs when the body weight
is distributed equally on both legs, or in the centre of the foot if it is
necessary to concentrate the bulk of body weight on one foot. The
centre of gravity can be adjusted according to body weight. Flexibility
and knee spring are also important in maintaining balance for both a
quick attack and instant recovery. One additional point; the heel of the
rear foot should never be off the ground at the point of impact. This is
not only necessary for good balance but also to produce maximum
power at the point of impact.
Breath Control - Hohup Jojul
Controlled breathing not only affects one's stamina and speed but can
also condition a body to receive a blow and augment the power of a
blow directed against an opponent. Through practice, breath stopped
in the state of exhaling at the critical moment when a blow is landed
against a pressure point on the body can prevent a loss of
consciousness and stifle pain. A sharp exhaling of breath at the
moment of impact and stopping the breath during the execution of a
movement tense the abdomen to concentrate maximum effort on the
delivery of the motion, while a slow inhaling helps the preparation of
the next movement. An important rule to remember; Never inhale while
focusing a block or blow against an opponent. Not only will this impede
movement but it will also result in a loss of power.
Students should also practice disguised breathing to conceal any
outward signs of fatigue. An experienced fighter will certainly press an
attack when he realizes his opponent is on the point of exhaustion.
One breath is required for one movement with the exception of a
continuous motion.
Mass - Zilyang
Mathematically, the maximum kinetic energy or force is obtained from
maximum body weight and speed and it is all important that the body
weight be increased during the execution of a blow. No doubt the
maximum body weight is applied with the motion of turning the hip. The
large abdominal muscles are twisted to provide additional body
momentum. Thus the hip rotates in the same direction as that of the
attacking or blocking tool. Another way of increasing body weight is the
utilization of a springing action of the knee joint. This is achieved by
slightly raising the hip at the beginning of the motion and lowering the
hip at the moment of impact to drop the body weight into the motion.
In summarizing, it is necessary to point out that the principles of force
outlined here hold just as true today in our modern scientific and
nuclear age as they did centuries ago.
I am sure that when you go through this art, both in theory and in
practice, you will find that the scientific basis of the motions and the
real power which comes out a small human body cannot fail to impress
you.
Speed - Sokdo
Speed is the most essential factor of force or power. Scientifically,
force equals mass times acceleration (F = MA) or (P = MV2), where P =
Power, M = Mass and V = Velocity.
If you drop a large stone gently on a double pane of glass from a height
of three inches its effect will be minimal. On the other hand, if you
throw a small stone against the same glass with great speed it will
smash.
If you pass your hand through a candle flame the flam will carry on
burning, you can however extinguish the flame with a controlled punch
or kick by stopping the technique one inch from the flame. The force of
displacement of the air in front of your attacking tool is enough to
extinguish the flame.
According to the theory of kinetic energy, every object increases its
weight as well as speed in a downward movement. This very principle
is applied to this particular art of self-defence. For this reason, at the
moment of impact, the position of the hand normally becomes lower
than the shoulder and the foot lower than the hip while the body is in
the air.
Reaction force, breath control, equilibrium, concentration, and
relaxation of the muscles cannot be ignored. However, these are the
factors that contribute to the speed and all these factors, together with
flexible and rhythmic movements, must be well coordinated to produce
the maximum power in Taekwon-Do.
The beginning student may ask; Where does one obtain the power to
create the devastating results attributed to Taekwon-Do? This power is
attributed to the utilization of a persons full potential through the
mathematical application of Taekwon-Do techniques. The average
person uses only 10 to 20 percent of their potential. Anyone,
regardless of size, age, or sex who can condition themselves to use
100 percent of their potential can also perform the same destructive
techniques.
Though training will certainly result in a superb level of physical
fitness, it will not necessarily result in the acquisition of extraordinary
stamina or superhuman strength. More important, Taekwon-Do training
will result in obtaining a high level of reaction force, concentration,
equilibrium, breath control and speed; these are the factors that will
result in a high degree of physical power.
Reaction Force
Concentration
Equilibrium
Breath Control
Mass
Speed
Reaction Force - Bandong Ryok
According to Newton's Law, every force has as equal and opposite
force. When an automobile crashes into a wall with the force of 2,000
pounds, the wall will return a force of 2,000 pounds; or forcing the end
of a seesaw down with a ton of weight will provide an upward force of
the same weight; if your opponent is rushing towards you at a high
speed, by the slightest blow to his head, the force with which you
strike their head would be that of their own onslaught plus that of your
blow.
The two forces combined; theirs, which is large, and yours, which is
small are quite impressive. Another reaction force is your own. A punch
with the right fist is aided by pulling back the left fist to the hip.
Concentration - Jip Joong
By applying the impact force onto the smallest target area, it will
concentrate the force and therefore, increase its effect. For example,
the force of water coming out of a water hose is greater if the orifice is
smaller. Conversely, the weight of a man spread out on snow shoes
makes hardly any impression on the snow. The blows in Taekwon-Do
are often concentrated onto the edge of the open palm or to the crook
of the fingers.
It is very important that you should not unleash all your strength at the
beginning but gradually, and particularly at the point of contact with
your opponent's body, the force must be so concentrated as to give a
knock-out blow. That is to say, the shorter the time for the
concentration, the greater will be the power of the blow. The utmost
concentration is required in order to mobilize every muscle of the body
onto the smallest target area simultaneously.
In conclusion, concentration is done in two ways: one is to concentrate
every muscle of the body, particularly the bigger muscles around the
hip and abdomen (which theoretically are slower than the smaller
muscles of other parts of the body) towards the appropriate tool to be
used at the proper time; the second way is to concentrate such
mobilized muscles onto the opponent's vital spot. This is the reason
why the hip and abdomen are jerked slightly before the hands and feet
in any action, whether it be attack or defence.
Remember, jerking can be executed in two ways: laterally and vertically.
Equilibrium - Kyun Hyung
Balance is of utmost importance in any type of athletics. In Taekwon-Do,
it deserves special consideration. By keeping the body always in
equilibrium, that is, well balanced, a blow is more effective and deadly.
Conversely, the unbalanced one is easily toppled. The stance should
always be stable yet flexible, for both offensive and defensive
movements.
Equilibrium is classified into both dynamic and static stability. They are
so closely inter-related that the maximum force can only be produced
when the static stability is maintained through dynamic stability.
To maintain good equilibrium, the centre of gravity of the stance must
fall on a straight line midway between both legs when the body weight
is distributed equally on both legs, or in the centre of the foot if it is
necessary to concentrate the bulk of body weight on one foot. The
centre of gravity can be adjusted according to body weight. Flexibility
and knee spring are also important in maintaining balance for both a
quick attack and instant recovery. One additional point; the heel of the
rear foot should never be off the ground at the point of impact. This is
not only necessary for good balance but also to produce maximum
power at the point of impact.
Breath Control - Hohup Jojul
Controlled breathing not only affects one's stamina and speed but can
also condition a body to receive a blow and augment the power of a
blow directed against an opponent. Through practice, breath stopped
in the state of exhaling at the critical moment when a blow is landed
against a pressure point on the body can prevent a loss of
consciousness and stifle pain. A sharp exhaling of breath at the
moment of impact and stopping the breath during the execution of a
movement tense the abdomen to concentrate maximum effort on the
delivery of the motion, while a slow inhaling helps the preparation of
the next movement. An important rule to remember; Never inhale while
focusing a block or blow against an opponent. Not only will this impede
movement but it will also result in a loss of power.
Students should also practice disguised breathing to conceal any
outward signs of fatigue. An experienced fighter will certainly press an
attack when he realizes his opponent is on the point of exhaustion.
One breath is required for one movement with the exception of a
continuous motion.
Mass - Zilyang
Mathematically, the maximum kinetic energy or force is obtained from
maximum body weight and speed and it is all important that the body
weight be increased during the execution of a blow. No doubt the
maximum body weight is applied with the motion of turning the hip. The
large abdominal muscles are twisted to provide additional body
momentum. Thus the hip rotates in the same direction as that of the
attacking or blocking tool. Another way of increasing body weight is the
utilization of a springing action of the knee joint. This is achieved by
slightly raising the hip at the beginning of the motion and lowering the
hip at the moment of impact to drop the body weight into the motion.
In summarizing, it is necessary to point out that the principles of force
outlined here hold just as true today in our modern scientific and
nuclear age as they did centuries ago.
I am sure that when you go through this art, both in theory and in
practice, you will find that the scientific basis of the motions and the
real power which comes out a small human body cannot fail to impress
you.
Speed - Sokdo
Speed is the most essential factor of force or power. Scientifically,
force equals mass times acceleration (F = MA) or (P = MV2), where P =
Power, M = Mass and V = Velocity.
If you drop a large stone gently on a double pane of glass from a height
of three inches its effect will be minimal. On the other hand, if you
throw a small stone against the same glass with great speed it will
smash.
If you pass your hand through a candle flame the flam will carry on
burning, you can however extinguish the flame with a controlled punch
or kick by stopping the technique one inch from the flame. The force of
displacement of the air in front of your attacking tool is enough to
extinguish the flame.
According to the theory of kinetic energy, every object increases its
weight as well as speed in a downward movement. This very principle
is applied to this particular art of self-defence. For this reason, at the
moment of impact, the position of the hand normally becomes lower
than the shoulder and the foot lower than the hip while the body is in
the air.
Reaction force, breath control, equilibrium, concentration, and
relaxation of the muscles cannot be ignored. However, these are the
factors that contribute to the speed and all these factors, together with
flexible and rhythmic movements, must be well coordinated to produce
the maximum power in Taekwon-Do.