| 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 |
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| 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.
Hartman, R. (2008). Taekwondo Tutor [Online]. Available: TKDTutor.com
| Information |
| Explanation of the Tenets COURTESY (Ye Ui) It can be said that courtesy is an unwritten regulation prescribed by ancient teachers of philosophy as a means to enlighten human beings while maintaining a harmonious society. It can be further be as an ultimate criterion required of a mortal. Taekwon-Do students should attempt to practice the following elements of courtesy to build up their noble character and to conduct the training in an orderly manner as well. 1) To promote the spirit of mutual concessions 2) To be ashamed of one's vices, contempting those of others 3) To be polite to one another 4) To encourage the sense of justice and humanity 5) To distinguish instructor from student, senior from junior, and elder from younger 6) To behave oneself according to etiquette 7) To respect others' possessions 8) To handle matters with fairness and sincerity 9) To refrain from giving or accepting a gift when in doubt INTEGRITY (Yom Chi) In Taekwon-Do, the word integrity assumes a looser definition than the one usually presented in Webster's dictionary. One must be able to define right and wrong and have a conscience, if wrong, to feel guilt. Listed are some examples where integrity is lacking: 1) The instructor who misrepresents himself and his art by presenting improper techniques to his students because of a lack of knowledge or apathy. 2) The student who misrepresents himself by "fixing" breaking materials before demonstrations. 3) The instructor who camouflages bad technique with luxurious training halls and false flattery to his students. 4) The student who requests ranks from an instructor, or attempts to purchase it. 5) The student who gains rank for ego purposes or the feeling of power. 6) The instructor who teaches and promotes his art for materialistic gains. 7) The students whose actions do not live up to his words. 8) The student who feels ashamed to seek opinions from his juniors. PERSEVERANCE (In Nae) There is an old Oriental saying, "Patience leads to virtue or merit, One can make a peaceful home by being patient for 100 times." Certainly happiness and prosperity are most likely brought to the patient person. To achieve something, whether it is a higher degree or the perfection or a technique, one must set his goal, then constantly persevere. Robert Bruce learned his lesson of perseverance from the persistent efforts of a lowly spider. It was this perseverance and tenacity that finally enabled him to free Scotland in the fourteenth century. One of the most important secrets in becoming a leader of Taekwon-Do is to overcome every difficulty by perseverance. Confucius said, "one who is impatient in trivial matters can seldom achieve success in matters of great importance." SELF CONTROL (Guk Gi) This tenet is extremely important inside and outside the dojang, whether conducting oneself in free sparring or in one's personal affairs. A loss of self-control in free sparring can prove disastrous to both student and opponent. An inability to live and work within one's capability or sphere is also a lack of self-control. According to Lao-Tzu "the term of stronger is the person who wins over oneself rather than someone else." INDOMITABLE SPIRIT (Baekjool Boolgool) "Here lie 300, who did their duty," a simple epitaph for one of the greatest acts of courage known to mankind. Although facing the superior forces of Xerxes, Leonidas and his 300 Spartans at Thermoplylae showed the world the meaning of indomitable spirit. It is shown when a courageous person and his principles are pitted against overwhelming odds. A serious student of Taekwon-Do will at all times be modest and honest. If confronted with injustice, he will deal with the belligerent without any fear or hesitation at all, with indomitable spirit, regardless of whosoever and however many the number may be. |
