Taekwondo

Karate is a Japanese martial art whose physical aspects seek the development of defensive and counterattacking body movements. The themes of traditional karate training are fighting and self-defense. On the other hand, Taekwondo is a form of Korean martial arts characterized by punching and kicking techniques. The focus of the fight is on head-height kicks, spinning jump kicks, and fast-kicking techniques.  Karate and Taekwondo are beneficial in situations where you must defend yourself. Many forms of Taekwondo are related to jumping and spinning kicks, whereas some aspects of karate focus on simple but effective strikes that come with less margin of error. Both martial arts forms have specific rules and guidelines that govern their competitions. In a competition, a score will be determined by judges based on how well the martial art was executed. In tournaments, karate generally gives points equally for both punches and kicks. Taekwondo gives higher points to kicks, which is why you’ll see more kicking in taekwondo competitions.   Main differences between the two forms of martial arts Karate is more popularly known as the art of striking. It features kicking, punching, and other open-handed techniques. Although joint manipulations, vital point striking, grappling, and throws are taught with the same emphasis within a class setting. Karate allows the person to defeat their opponent using kicking and striking. Taekwondo, however, is famous for using kicking techniques, which makes it different from karate. The reason behind this is that the leg is the strongest and longest weapon a martial artist has, and kicks can execute powerful strikes. Taekwondo is taught in two different forms, and these are Kata and sparring. Kata, similar to karate, is known as “form,” a choreographed routine of martial arts movements. On the other hand, Taekwondo sparring is full-contact fighting using a combination of offensive and defensive tricks and techniques against your opponent. On the other hand, karate has all the fundamental movements in its learning system. It consists of the Three K, including Kata, Kihon, and Kumite. Kihon stands for basics and is the root of style and art.   Similarities between the two forms There are three main commonalities between Karate and Taekwondo. These similarities are:  The first is that they are both taught as a form of self-defense. Although what they emphasize may differ, their primary focus is self-defense. Second, they both are linear martial arts, which essentially means straightforward. If you are interested in becoming skilled in basic self-defense concepts and techniques, then either art will do. Third, they both require you to learn the basics first.    Which art should you learn? The answer to this question depends on the person, and there is no unified answer. It depends on which art you prefer and the reason you have for learning that specific form of skill. It is vital that you figure out what style is available in your area and which suits you and your abilities. 

Martial arts are not only a way of self-defense or a way to spice up the movies you watch. Like all arts, martial arts are a way to improve and discipline yourself. Picking up martial arts is something that most people have thought of at some point in their lives, predominantly in their younger years. Still, people often get dazed by the myriad of martial arts, be it Kungfu, Jujitsu, or Taekwondo; the choices seem almost endless. This article will aid you in learning the differences between the most common types of martial arts.   Kung Fu Kung Fu is quite possibly the first thing that pops to mind when thinking of martial arts. It generally tries to mimic the flow of nature and its inhabitants, though sometimes Kung Fu is also inspired by various philosophies. The fighting style varies significantly on what type of Kung Fu you try to master, though most are very fast-paced and jerky.   Karate Karate is a form of Japanese martial art that teaches the learner how to use his limbs as though they are weapons. Strikes are fast and swift, and a greater emphasis is put on punching than kicking.   Jujitsu Jujitsu encompasses the art of subduing an opponent who has a weapon with either no weapon at all or an inferior weapon. This martial art focuses intensely on pinning down the opponent's body and using their might against them.   Judo Where Jujitsu relies on using the opponent's might against himself, Judo only tries to teach a learner how to subdue an opponent while trying to hurt them as little as possible. Attacks usually only consist of ways to get the opponent into a more harmless position, such as pinned to the floor. Joint locks, chokes, and strangleholds are also encouraged to be used in most situations, as these moves usually only prove to make the opponent uneasy enough to stop being violent.   Taekwondo Taekwondo is the broadest martial art, as it does not have a general direction except for a few preferences. Masters of Taekwondo can be great at all-around fighting as they learn to subdue and damage the opponent. Take up this martial art if you wish to be a jack of all trades.   Tai Chi Tai Chi might be one of the most mischaracterized martial art. The western style of Tai Chi removes all the self-defense training it offers, relying solely on its benefits to a person's health. Movements can be slow yet effective in self-defense and the more meditative side of this martial art.   To sum it up All of these martial arts have one thing in common–discipline. If you choose to pick up any martial arts, you must remember to stick to them. The main goal of learning martial arts should be taking up whatever the journey offers you in terms of self-improvement and not idealizing becoming a master of your body overnight. That concludes this article on the different types of martial arts!

It is common that when you walk into a taekwondo studio, you will see that the students are wearing belts of different colors. The students wearing the white and yellow belts are beginners while green and blue are mid level. The red and black level belts indicate higher ranks. The following are some of the implications for the belt ranks:   1. Knowledge The belt colors indicate the amount of knowledge that you have of taekwondo. The white and the yellow belts indicate knowledge about basic blocks, punches and kicks. As you advance to the next level, you will be able to apply most of these techniques during sparring and practice. At the black belt level, you will be able to instruct other lower belt rank students.                                  2. Skills There is a very big difference between a white belts front kick and that of a black belt student. The white belt will have less balance, power and speed in their kicks when compared to that of the black belt. As a student advances through the ranks, they gain more skill and are able to polish up on minor details. For instance, the black belt will know how to pivot their feet or how to turn their hips in order to deliver a powerful kick.   3. Perseverance The more a student advances through the various belt ranks, the more they are seen as being able to persevere and endure the trials of learning taekwondo. Taekwondo is a sport that involves a lot of physical activity. There are also many patterns to learn which can take a toll on anyone because they are not easy to learn. In addition, there are breaking techniques that the students have to learn at every stage. They are also likely to encounter bruises and bumps in the course of their training. The fact that they are able to get through these frustrations and advance to the next level shows that they have perseverance.   4. Dedication The belt ranks that a student has acquired shows that they are dedicated to learning taekwondo and are willing to advance to the highest rank. Training in taekwondo requires time and effort. Students should be able to set aside a significant amount of time in order to be able to learn and train in taekwondo. Juggling between work and school and training takes dedication and commitment. PREVIOUS PAGE

In taekwondo, it does not matter whether you are male or female or what age bracket you are in, in order to be promoted to the next level. However, you must meet certain requirements at each level in order to be promoted to the next level. These requirements must be met under a test that is given by a panel of scrutinizing black belt instructors. Below is a discussion of the various belt levels and what one requires to achieve in order to be promoted to each belt rank.   Yellow Belt Requirements Form In order to be promoted to this belt level, the students must be able to perform certain patterns precisely. The first form that they have to be able to perform is the tae guk il jang pattern. This pattern has a total of 16 movements. The movements represent heaven or when creation began. Techniques included in the form include, low, high and middle blocks, front and walking stances, front kick and middle punch. The taek guk il jang pattern is the first pattern in the tae guk form. There are other schools which require the student to be able to perform the palgwe il jang which is composed of twenty patterns.                                Self-Defence The students have to show case self defense drills. These may include the basics of one step drills to block against throws, joint locks, kicking attacks or single punching. The drills may also include free sparring techniques stimulated by a combination of kicks.   Board Breaking Even though not all schools require the students to board break, most of them require the students to do so. There are various techniques that students will be required to perform when breaking the boards. These include: forward or reverse punch, side kick, roundhouse kick, and front kick. The board is usually an inch thick and is made of pine wood.   Basic knowledge The students will have to demonstrate that they are knowledgeable about taekwondo and its origins. They have to know the meaning of the pattern that they perform and the symbols on the Korean flag.   Green Belt Requirements Forms The students in this stage have to be able to properly perform the Won Hyo pattern which consists of 28 movements.                                 Self-Defence Students will learn how to defend themselves from holds. They will also need to learn one step sparring. The self defense techniques wil include but may not be limited to: crescent kicks, knife hand blocks, etc. The students should be able to defend themselves from hair grabs from the front, and from waist grabs from behind.   Board Breaking The breaking techniques used in this stage include the jump reverse kick.   Basic Knowledge The students have to display considerable knowledge on the history of taekwondo and ITA.   Blue Belt Requirements Form Students have to show that they are knowledgeable of the Joong Gun pattern. This pattern consists of 32 movements all of which have to be executed flawlessly.                               Self-Defence The student has to be able to defend themselves against the upright neck hold from behind. This is where the opponent has one arm around the defender's throat and is standing behind him. The students have to also demonstrate how they would defend themselves from a bent over neck lock. This is where the attacker has the defender's neck locked at the side of his hip. The students have to be able to demonstrate that they can break from this hold.   Breaking The student has to demonstrate that they can break the boards using an axe kick.   Basic knowledge The students have to show that they are knowledgeable in the origin of the patterns, Taekwondo and ITA.   Red Belt Requirements Form The students have to show that they are knowledgeable in the Hwa Rang pattern. This pattern consists of 29 movements all of which the student has to demonstrate flawlessly. They are also required to be able to do one step sparring, free sparring and multiple free sparring.                                Self-Defence Students should be able to demonstrate excellent skills in defending themselves from the following attacks: club attacks, knife attacks, multiple unarmed opponents and against holds.   Breaking The students should show that they are able to break 3 inch boards using any kick.   Knowledge Just like the previous ranks, the student is required to know about the origin of taekwondo and ITA.   Black Belt Requirements Forms The student must demonstrate knowledge in and ability to execute the Kwang-Gae pattern. It consists of 39 movements. The students have to also be able to perform multiple free sparring, two step and one step sparring.                                 Self-Defence Just like the previous red belt rank, the student has to demonstrate that they are able to defend themselves against holds, club attacks, knife attacks and attacks from several unarmed opponents.   Board Breaking The students should be able to break 3 inch boards with any hand or kicking technique.   Knowledge The students have to demonstrate they are knowledgeable in other martial arts, taekwondo and ITA. PREVIOUS PAGE |  NEXT PAGE

1. Back And Side Falls A student can fall anywhere, including on the stairs, being pushed in the streets, or while sparring. Falling properly is therefore important and must be instinctive. The most important things that the student must remember when learning the falling technique is always to keep the head from hitting the ground, spread the force of hitting the ground evenly throughout the body and shouting to force air from the lungs. For the back fall, the students should begin by bringing their hands up in front of their face or their chest. The chin must be tucked into the sternum by bending the head forward. For a smooth fall, the student must curl their body and form a ball. As their upper back makes contact with the mat, they should slap the mat with open palms. The arms should also be at a 45 degree angle from the body. Similar to the back fall is the side fall only this time, the student curls like a ball to one side and slaps the mat with the hand on that side. The other hand should come up and rest on the stomach with the chin tucked into the opposite shoulder. One thing the student should remember is to always remain calm during falls.                                 2. Higher Side And Back Falls At first, students will learn how to absorb the shock of basic falls from a standing position. Once they feel that they are comfortable with the basics, they can then safely begin practicing their self-defence tactics. The students have to be able to absorb the impact of higher falls as they practice techniques that are more advanced. In order to begin, students should begin with small hops and landing back onto their feet before doing the fall. This movement should progress until the student is able to jump into the fall directly. The timing of the slap on the mat and the angle at which the arm is to the body should be accurate enough to prevent the body from injury. These are important elements which must come naturally to the students before they are allowed to perform throws on one another in the more advanced techniques.   3. Forward rolls Forward rolls are probably one of the moves in taekwondo that causes much apprehension among students. This is because they disorient the body and force them to take up uncomfortable inverted body positions. However, students must protect themselves since many attackers are taken into inverted aerials during throws. Smooth rolls are important because they protect the student from real life instances such as bike crashes, or trips on stair cases. In the forward roll technique, the head must always be protected. In order to perform this technique, the student must stand with their feet as wide as their shoulders and their right foot forward. Beside the right foot, the student should place their left hand and in front of the left foot. The right hand will then be placed in between the left foot and the left hand on the mat. The head should look over the shoulder. If the head is not turned during the roll, it may impact the floor and this would defeat the whole purpose of doing the rolls in the first place. With the left foot, the student should push forward and roll on the outside of their right arm, across the back in a diagonal manner and land on their left side. The body should be curled like a ball when rolling. At the end of the roll, the student should shout and slap the mat.                                  4. Front Fall Like all the other falls, the aim should be to protect the torso and the head. In order to learn this fall and perfect it, three steps are involved: learning from the kneeling position, from the standing position and from the jumping position. Learning should take place in these three positions respectively, with each step being perfected before moving on to the next one. The defender should bring both his hands in front of the body with the fingers open. While falling forward, the impact of the fall should be broken by the defender by using his fore arms and the palms of his hands. The elbows should be at a 45 degree angle and the hands should form a triangle like shape in front of the face. To avoid hitting the nose, the defender should turn the face to the side. Once the defender lands on the mat, they should kick their feet out and spring to their feet. The forearms and the feet should be the only parts of the body touching the mat. This fall is very important during sparring. The defender should naturally be able to bring their hands up instinctively and turn their faces the other way in order to prevent their face from hitting the ground.                                    Throws These basic throws can be included in a taekwondo curriculum once the students have mastered the art of falling and are able to sufficiently protect themselves. Throws can be executed from a range of attacks and positions such as sparring situations, punches, chokes, wrist grabs, etc. The following are some of the throws most commonly used in taekwondo:   1. Forward Body Drop/ Floating Drop Once an attacker has thrown a punch, this throw is meant to maintain their forward momentum. The defender may wish not to use any move such as a hard block that may impeded the attacker's forward motion such as a hard block. The block and grab technique is applicable to this throw. The main work of the defender would be to avoid the attacker's strike and at the same time push him forward along the path he created. In order to execute a floating drop, the defender must stand on the opposite side of the hand that is attacking. For instance, if it is the left hand punch, they should block and grab with the right hand and step to the left. The defender will then place their left hand on the attacker's right ear. With the arm high up and in front of them, the defender should make 180 degree turn to face the same direction as their opponent. In order to force the attacker to roll to the ground, they must at the same time twist their opponent's head down and around. The footwork involved in the forward body drop is the primary defense. This move should be performed by the defender stopping in front of the opponent with their first move instead of stepping outside the opponent's momentum. To make the opponent trip over the defender's leg, the defender should make a 270 degree turn into a front stance. The move can be varied such that the defender grabs the opponent's arm and pulls on it. The maximum number of steps allowed in both the throws is two; more than that would not make the movements fluid.                                   2. Major Outer Reap This throw is a sweeping style. Instead of sweeping in between the opponent's legs, the defender sweeps the opponent's front leg from the outside of it. This technique begins with a Judo style grab. This is whereby the opponent will hold the defender's right elbow with his left hand his left lapel with his other hand. The defender will also perform the same move. The defender will then try to push back the opponent's shoulder while pulling down his elbow. These two moves should be performed simultaneously after the defender has moved to the right side of his opponent with his left foot. This throw is applicable in several situations. For instance, it can be applied when the opponent lashes out with a front punch. It is also an effective technique if in a fight the stance is close. Regardless of the attack, as long as it is a grab, the defender should be able to maintain their own balance when trying to throw their opponent with this technique.                                 PREVIOUS PAGE |  NEXT PAGE

Introduction To The Art Of Throwing And Falling Techniques In every martial art, falling is a technique that every student must learn at the beginning of their training. This is because there are many instances in which one is prone to falling. For instance, in taekwondo, there are many kicks involved. This has the potential of knocking down an individual and earning points even if the strike didn't cause the opponent to fall with significant force.   When students learn early in training some of the most basic falling techniques, they can be able to avoid back, neck, arms and even head injuries which could be fatal. Learning the basics in falling will sharpen their reflex and they will avoid incorrect falls. Learning the art of throws is also another advantage to winning a competition in martial arts; especially where a physically weaker opponent is faced with an opponent that is stronger. Even though this is against the rules in Taekwondo because all the opponents are matched according to their techniques and weights, it is still a useful alternative.   How To Execute Methodology For Practice And Instruction? Martial arts cannot encompass all the known fighting techniques into their training sessions and that is why falling and throwing techniques in taekwondo have to be chosen carefully. The techniques that are chosen must be in line with various rank levels and must be compatible with the basics taught in this level.   Instructors should only introduce techniques that will be frequently practiced instead of introducing many techniques. Throwing and falling techniques require constant repetition in order to perfect them and therefore introducing too many of them would be pointless. Incorporating falls and throws into the regular taekwondo practice may seem awkward at first. However, the basics of any technique should be learned first before combining it with another technique. One way of encouraging students to learn the techniques is by incorporating them and making them promotional requirements.                               PREVIOUS PAGE |  NEXT PAGE

As mentioned earlier, stretches in taekwondo have to target certain muscle groups in your body so as to increase your flexibility. The following target taekwondo stretches will give you an idea of how to do your stretches.   1. Achilles Tendon Stretch To begin with, it is important to understand where the Achilles tendon is located and what it is. This is the tendon that runs from your lower back, to the muscles in your calf and down to your heel bone. This tendon contracts during a powerful move such as a round kick. It is important therefore to protect this tendon from injury by stretching. How To Stretch It With both arms touching the wall or a sturdy object, lean forward. The hands should be shoulder width apart. Next, extend your right foot backwards and have a 90 degree bend on your left foot ensuring that the heel is firmly placed on the ground. Lean forward into the wall until you feel that your back and leg muscles are being stretched. In order to make the stretch deeper, you can sink down with your hips slowly. Half a minute should be enough to hold this stretch before changing sides.                                 2. Ankle Stretch Taekwondo involves a lot of turning and spinning and this requires that you work on the flexibility of your ankles so as to improve your technique of kicking. How To Stretch It The ankle stretch is very simple. Simply lie down on your back with your knees straight. Move your ankle such that you can comfortably push your foot forward. Try as much as possible to keep the knees straight when dong this stretch. Continue pushing your foot forward until you feel you cannot push anymore. Hold the position for about 15 seconds before releasing and going back to your neutral position. This procedure should be done in ten repetitions. This kind of ankle stretching is known as the plantar flexion.                                  3. Back Stretches There are two popular ways in which you can stretch your back after and before your taekwondo work out: cat stretch and child's pose. Cat Stretch This is a very simple way of stretching your back. Simply get down on your hands and knees. Just as the name suggests, you will have to arch your back up as far as possible towards the ceiling just like a cat. Hold this position for about 15 seconds and get back down. Do this at least ten times.                                  Child's Pose This pose will not only stretch your back but it will also help you to stretch your ankles, thighs and hips. This position requires you to get down on your hands and knees on the floor. Spread your knees and ensure that your toes touch. Sit down on your heels and lean forward, ensuring that your belly rests in between your thighs. Stretch your arms as far in front and hold the stretch for fifteen seconds. This move should be repeated at least ten times.                                   4. Calf Stretches It's very easy to tear your calf muscles during training. The following technique will help you to stretch it out before and after a training session. How To Stretch It Stretching your calf muscles is similar to doing the Achilles tendon stretch. You have to stand at arm's length from the wall and put your hands on it. Lean forward stretching your right foot as far back as you can with a 90 degree bend in your left foot until you feel your calf muscles stretch out. Hold the pose for about thirty seconds before switching legs. Note that the foot extended backward should be straight with no bend at the knee. The stretch can be deepened by sinking deeper with your hips.                                   5. Hamstring Stretch Having heard about all the horror stories of people tearing at their hamstrings when doing an axe kick or any other movement during the taekwondo training sessions, the following are some of the stretches that you can do. Touch Your Toes This is a very simple stretch to do. To begin, stand with your legs crossed while ensuring that your feet are touching. Keeping your rear knee straight, bend over and reach for your feet. Hold this position for about 30 seconds before switching feet.   Lying Down This is also another technique that you can use to stretch your hamstrings. To begin, lie on your back with both knees straight on the floor. Raise your right leg and straighten it until you feel that the back of your thigh is stretching. Ensure that there is a slight bend on your left leg. Hold this pose for thirty seconds before switching legs.                                  6. Chest Stretches Chest stretches are very important because the taekwondo training sessions will require you to throw powerful punches, blocks, etc. If you injure your chest, chances are that you will have to sit it out for a while until you can be able to train again. If you are preparing for a tournament, this is a risk you would not want to take. How To Stretch It With your palms facing up, clasp your hands behind your back. Pressing your shoulder blades together, pull your hands down and stick out your chest as far out as you can. Hold this position for about twenty seconds.                                PREVIOUS PAGE |  NEXT PAGE

In taekwondo there are basically three kinds of stretches that you can do. You can perform one of them every day or you can combine all of them. When you combine all of them before and after a training session, you obviously stand to gain a lot more out of the stretches.   1. Dynamic Stretching This kind of stretching is especially useful when it comes to kicking and gaining height. This kind of stretching involves lengthening of the muscles and the tendons while at the same time incorporating some movements. An example would be to swing your leg like you are doing an axe kick. Lift the leg as high as possible until you encounter a certain amount of resistance.                                 2. Relaxed stretching This is probably the most popular and most known kind of stretching. This kind of stretching is best done after stretching. It simply involves stretching the target muscles until you feel you have hit tension. Release the muscle and continue with stretching. Most people time themselves when doing this kind of stretch. The best way to go about it is to just stretch until you feel that you have reached your limit, instead of timing yourself.                                   3. Isometric stretching This kind of stretching is similar to relaxed stretching but there are certain differences. When you are doing the isometric stretch, you should tighten the target muscles and then release once you feel you have reached maximum tension. Your muscles will feel loose and relaxed and you can stretch some more. Repeat this procedure until you feel you cannot stretch anymore.                                 PREVIOUS PAGE |  NEXT PAGE

As mentioned earlier, stretching is an essential part of your taekwondo training. However, it is important to show its importance in your training. The following are some of the benefits of taekwondo stretching:   1. It will help you to increase your flexibility In taekwondo you need to be flexible enough to do your axe kicks, round kicks, etc. You also need to be flexible to kick high up without tearing your hamstrings or causing other soft tissue injuries. Flexibility can be defined as the length to which your muscles can stretch. When you stretch, you lengthen your muscles thus enabling you to do a variety of movements without straining your ligaments.                                 2. It helps you to improve the circulation of blood After a very intense taekwondo work out, you muscles need time to repair. They require sufficient blood flow in order to hasten the repair process. This can be achieved by stretching your muscles every day. Not only does an increase in blood flow to the muscles hasten the repair process but it also helps to nourish them and helps to get rid of toxins.   3. It will help you to improve coordination and balance As mentioned earlier, when you stretch you increase flexibility. When you acquire flexibility, you will be at a better position to improve your coordination and balance. This reduces your chances of falling and getting injured during training.   4. It helps to reduce lower back pain The main cause of lower back pain is tight and stiff muscles in the buttocks, hips, hamstrings and lower back. Stretching allows the muscles to become more flexible and thus helps to alleviate the pain.   5. It helps to improve your cardiovascular health Studies show that when you stretch, you lower blood pressure by improving the function of your arteries. PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE

Introduction To Taekwondo Stretching If you are studying or thinking of taking up a taekwondo class, it is important to know that stretching is an integral part of your routine becuse it reduces the risk of injuries. It should not be done like a warm up where you only do it before and after training; it should be done three to four times a week whether you go for your classes or not. Stretching should be done a minimum of half an hour. Experts recommend that you perform your stretching routine everyday especially if you incorporate weight training into your exercise. This will allow your muscles a chance to repair themselves. When doing your stretches, do not push your body beyond its limits; if it hurts do not continue. The aim is to improve flexibility and not to inflict pain to your body.                               PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE

The following are some of the sparring rules in taekwondo: 1. All contestants are required to wear protective gear during sparring. They must also wear the traditional taekwondo gi. For protection, they need to have pads to protect their shin, forearms, hands, chest and head. For men, they must wear groin protection. They must also wear mouth guard.                                 2. Kicks and punches can be very powerful and can therefore cause permanent if not fatal injury. This is why taekwondo only includes certain strikes which are mentioned before the competition. When it comes to using your hands, only a closed fist is allowed. All other moves such as using your elbow, open hand or hammer strikes are not allowed. Kicks, on the other hand, are allowed on the head but you cannot strike the unprotected area of the face.   3. For every penalty you receive, your opponent gains a point. Intentional and repeated fouling will get you kicked out of the competition or even expelled from the tournament. Some of the moves that can attract a foul include: running away from your opponent, grappling of any kind, striking with your elbow or your knee, punches to areas below the waist and to the face, etc.                                 4. A certain number of points are awarded to certain moves. For instance, a kick to the head will earn an opponent three points, a spinning kick to the chest will earn them two points, etc. The strikes have to be of significant force, a glancing or a grazing blow is not enough to earn any points. PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE

The following are some of the sparring tips that you can use against your opponent in order to gain an advantage: 1. Determine whether your opponent is a defensive or an offensive striker. If they attack you first, then they are an offensive striker; if they wait for you to make the first move, then they are a defensive striker. 2. Find out whether your opponent is a kicker or a puncher by doing a fake move. If they throw up their hand, then they are a puncher if they kick, then they are a kicker. 3. Every opponent has their favorite technique. This is probably a technique that they feel is the most effective or that they feel they have mastered. In order for you to know which technique your opponent relies on, try and attack them first. Note that you should not attack blindly; have a counter attack plan in mind.                               4. When you are hitting your opponent, your stance should never be wider than the width of your shoulders. You want your strikes to be precise and fast. A wider stance will only make your movements slower. 5. Do not show any fear when you are sparring. Your opponent will sense the fear and use it to their advantage. However, you can also use fear as a fake. 6. The right moment to strike is when your opponent is about to strike or when he is about to land from a strike. 7. Economize on the amount of energy that you use. Do not kick unnecessarily. Kicking utilizes more energy than punching or other hand techniques. If you get tired too early into the sparring, your opponent will see it and take advantage. 8. The most obvious and most important tip is to never underestimate your opponent. Your opponents come with different styles and techniques and underestimating them could predict your loss. PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE

During sparring, opponents score points by using kicks and by punching the opponent's chest protector. The following is a list of some of the effective sparring techniques:   1. Round House Kick This kick is popularly used in taekwondo sparring. This is because it is powerful and very fast. In order to perform this technique, you will use the top of your foot to kick your opponent. You can do this by simply lifting your leg and kicking horizontally. This kick targets the midsection or the head. Depending on your stance, you can easily deliver this kick with your rear or front leg. There are certain variations to this kick such as jumping or spinning round house kicks.                                 2. Axe Kick The ax kick requires you to be very flexible because the technique involves lifting your foot up to your head. Once your foot is above your head, you will kick downwards on your opponent's head with the bottom of your foot or the heel. This kick should be delivered very fast. If you do it slowly, your opponent will launch a preemptive strike to defend themselves.                                 3. Spinning Back Kick This kick is a very effective counter attack technique when sparring. It is especially effective against the axe kick. When your opponent comes at you with an axe kick, you can spin to avoid his attack and strike him with a back kick. If for instance, your right leg is in front of you, you can spin and kick him with your left leg. The spin has to be counter clock wise if your right leg is the one that is in front. If it is your left leg, the spin will be clockwise. Distance and timing in the spinning back kick is what will determine how effective your kick will be.                                  4. Spinning Hook Kick This kick is often used as a follow up to the round house kick. You can kick your opponent using this kick by simply lifting up your foot and kicking them with the bottom or heel of your foot. The kick resembles the spinning back kick only this time round your leg will move in a horizontal manner.                                  5. Double Kick This is one of the deceptive techniques used in sparring. The move involves two round house kicks. Using your front leg, perform the first kick on the side of your opponent's chest protector. Follow this move with a round house kick to your opponent's chest by jumping off your other foot without putting the first foot down. The reason why this technique is effective is because your opponent will focus on your first maneuver and will not expect you to immediately perform the second move.                                   6. The Block Punch The punch can serve as a defensive block or as an offensive strike. Three motions are involved when trying to perform the block punch when you are in your standing stance. First, you will need to create a punching distance by putting your front foot forward. Secondly, you need to protect your lead leg from kicks by extending your front arm downward. Finally, you will strike a power punch with your powerful hand. These moves have to be done simultaneously. PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE

Once the fighter has a general idea of their plan, the following process is necessary for them to be able to execute their plan properly:   1. How to Psychologically Formulate The Strategy The competitor has to observe their opponent's every move and collect the necessary information. For instance, when they want to do a back kick, which part of their body shifts the most? This will help you to read their next move. The competitor has to also analyze their situation appropriately and make a prompt decision. The decision should then be followed by immediate execution of the plan.   2. How To Physically execute The Strategy The competitor has to be able to change their techniques depending on the situation. They have to also conserve their energy as they execute their strategy. This involves judging whether there is a need to use excessive energy or whether it should be conserved. Next, the competitor should have appropriate timing to defend themselves or to attack their opponent. They then have to carry out their general plan and score as many points as possible in order to win.                               PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE

The following are some of the elements that every competitor has to keep in mind during a taekwondo competition: 1. Every competitor is in the game to win. Therefore they have to create variations and combinations which are unique so that they can be able to score points. One thing that every competitor has to keep in mind is that the variations, combinations and techniques have to be in line with the rules of the game. The aim is to score points and not to earn penalties. 2. A typical taekwondo match usually lasts nine minutes. A fighter has to know when it is necessary to conserve their energy and when it is appropriate to use force and pressure on their opponents. 3. Feinting is a common technique used in sparring. However, the opponent has to use this technique wisely so that their opponent doesn't detect it. PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE

We have looked at the importance of meditation and some of the meditation techniques used by taekwondo practitioners. However, it is important to also learn some of the useful tips that can help you to begin your meditation.   1. Your Posture Your posture has to be perfect. Your spine should be straight and your shoulders relaxed. Meditation is all about connecting the mind and the body. If your body is properly balanced, your mind will also be balanced. In order to ensure that your back is always straight all the time, just imagine that your head is touching the sky at all times.   2. Your eyes Many people find that they drift away in thought when they close their eyes. It is therefore advised that you keep your eyes open when meditating. You can simply lower your gaze. However, if you find that meditating with your eyes closed is more effective, then it is okay to close them when meditating.                                 3. Your breath Breathing is an important factor in meditation therefore you should concentrate on how you steam it in and out. You should not control it; just let it be natural. This will help you to stay in the present and not drift away.   4. Your thoughts If you find that thoughts are creeping into your mind when you are meditating, gently let them go by focusing on your breathing. If you try and block thoughts, you will become agitated. The best way to deal with thoughts is to imagine they are unwelcome visitors in your home and you are asking them to leave.   5. Your emotions If you have strong emotions in your mind, you will find it hard to get into mediation mode. This is because strong emotions will make you drift away by bringing in thoughts and stories to your mind. Emotions such as anger, fear, envy, etc. all bring stories to your mind. The best way to deal with these emotions is to focus on the feelings of the body. For instance, if you feel a tight knot in your chest that is caused by anger or betrayal, you should focus on that part of your body instead of becoming entangled in the stories. This is meant to create a flow of energy throughout your entire body and will help you to honor the emotions that you feel, instead of getting entangled in thoughts.   6. Your length If you feel you cannot do a two hour meditation, then you should not do it. The amount of time that you take to meditate should be within your own comfort zone. If you feel like ten minutes is enough then this is what you should do.   7. Your silence Some people prefer to listen to "meditation music" while others prefer complete silence. Some people believe that silence has healing power. When you sit in silence, you will be able to focus on what your mind is doing. It gives you inner peace and lets your mind rest. PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE

In order for a practitioner to reach their full potential, they have to be able to know a few techniques that they can use to reach it. The following are some of the techniques that they can use:   1. Sitting posture The Tai Chi method of meditation involves a number of sitting postures. The aim of these different postures is to be able to maintain the energy flow in the body and also to be able to align the body. The Shuang-pan position is an example of one of the sitting positions used in Tai Chi. This position is performed by sitting down on the ground and crossing the legs. The alternate feet should rest on your thighs while placing both your palms on the soles of your feet. Your shoulders should be dropped with your back straight up. If you feel sitting on the ground is a bit uncomfortable, you can use a pillow. This position allows you to be able to complete the connection of pathways of chi to your body.                                 2. The standing posture This is another technique for meditation in taekwondo. It is a very popular way of helping one to centre and ground the self. An example of this kind of meditation would be the Wu Ji posture. This posture will require you to stand with your feet shoulder width apart and your toes pointing straight ahead. Your knees should also be slightly bent and relaxed. Instead of collapsing your knees inward, push them slightly outward. With your hands hanging loosely at the sides, let your shoulders drop and straighten your back. Close your eyes and breathe in through your nose, slowly and deeply.                                 3. Breathing Breathing is a very essential part of martial arts, including taekwondo. It is used to give the practitioners full benefits of every meditation posture. The breathing technique incorporates abdominal exhalation. Exhalation periods usually lasts longer than inhalation ones. The purpose of this kind of breathing is to circulate energy throughout your body. Experts believe that energy is meant to flow in a circular manner throughout your body. That is, it should flow from the top of your head, to the soles of your feet and back to your head. The excess energy is stored below your navel. This breathing meditation also encourages the students to focus on circulating their energy throughout their body and also to feel it as it moves through the body.                                 4. Discipline and self control meditation Meditation in taekwondo also helps the mind to get rid of negative energy and thoughts that might thwart the chances of you winning a match. This kind of meditation helps the student to become aware of negative energy within the mind such as envy or anger. This kind of observation is also good in helping the student to become more disciplined and focused. Practitioners use this technique by concentrating on thoughts which are immovable and breathing in deeply while sitting or standing.                                   5. No mind This is a method of meditation where the practitioner perceives there is no opponent. Instead, they focus on themselves as the opponent and try to perceive which moves are going to be made even before they are. This kind of meditation is known as Bunkai. It is part of the Zen meditation techniques which involve emptying the mind of any thoughts. It is the kind of meditation used by practitioners to achieve discipline and patience.                                 PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE

There are many reasons as to why relaxation and meditation is used in taekwondo. However, many experts believe that this particular martial art does not really emphasize the use of meditation and relaxation. Regardless of the belief, the following are some of the reasons as to why relaxation and meditation is important in taekwondo:   1. It helps to improve sleep patterns Taekwondo involves a lot of physical activity. Students have to learn how to spar; they have to do strength training, among other things. Health experts believe that the brain is more active at night after an intense physical activity during the day. This might interfere with sleeping patterns and result in the student being moody and emotional the following day. Through meditation and relaxation, the student is able to relax the mind and have peaceful, regular sleep patterns.                                 2. Improves performance When preparing for a fight, the fighter has to be able to make clear judgment of their opponent without being guided by emotions. Taekwondo requires the fighter to respond quickly to their opponents attack or defense without wasting too much time. Through meditation and relaxation, the fighter is able to make correct judgments and improve their overall performance in the tournaments.   3. It helps in training In taekwondo there are many different patterns to learn and mastering them is not easy. It takes time and constant practice to be able to master each pattern. Many students may find themselves getting frustrated as they advance from one level to the next because the patterns become more complicated and difficult to properly execute. Frustration usually evokes our minds to "give up". With a relaxed and calm mind, a student will be able to practice, without giving up, until they can be able to perfect their technique.   4. Helps to deal with pain Pain is another factor that taekwondo students have to deal with. The pain of strength training, the pain of being hit, etc. are all some of the things that a taekwondo practitioner may face every day when they are training. Students are expected to work past the pain and maintain a conscious calculating mind. This is not something that is easy to achieve but with time, it becomes easy. PREVIOUS PAGE  |  NEXT PAGE