Taekwondo  태권도(跆拳道) is a martial art originating in Korea. It combines combat techniques, self-defense, sport, exercise and in some cases meditation and philosophy.  In 1989, taekwondo was the world’s most popular martial art in terms of number of practitioners. Sparring (gyeorugi) has been an Olympic event since 2000.

The ‘Tae’ means ‘foot’ or ‘leg’, ‘Kwon’ means ‘fist’ or ‘fight’ ‘Do’ means the ‘way’ or ‘discipline’. Literally translated Tae Kwon Do means ‘the way of the fist and foot’. The most important part of the word is ‘Do’ as this translated means the right way. Learning to kick and punch are only physical attributes. By practicing Do and the principles of Taekwondo, students become overall martial artists both physically and mentally.

Taekwondo is divide into two main styles, the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) and the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF).

WTF style Taekwondo has developed as a martial art/sport since the 1950s and may have a somewhat different focus, especially in terms of its emphasis on speed and competition (as in Olympic sparring). Today, the Kukkiwon, or World Taekwondo Headquarters is the traditional center for WTF taekwondo; founded by Dr Kim Un Yong on May 25, 1973. The other comes from the International Taekwondo Federation(ITF).

Although there are doctrinal and technical differences between sparring in the two main styles and among the various organizations, the art in general emphasizes kicks thrown from a mobile stance, employing the leg’s greater reach and power (compared to the arm). Taekwondo training generally includes a system of blocks, kicks, punches, and open-handed strikes and may also include various take-downs or sweeps, throws, and joint locks.