Origins of Martial Arts.

University Degree Education and Teaching

Origins of Martial Arts

Although the origins of martial arts are shrouded in mystery, we consider it an undeniable fact that from time immemorial there have been physical actions involving the use of the hands and feet for purpose of self-protection.

If we were to define these physical actions as "Tae Kwon Do," any country might claim credit for inventing Tae Kwon Do. There is, however, scant resemblance between Tae Kwon Do, as it is practiced today, and the crude forms of unarmed combat developed in the past.

Modern Tae Kwon Do differs greatly from other martial arts. In fact, no other martial art is so advanced with regard to the sophistication and effectiveness of its technique or the overall physical fitness it imparts to its practitioners.

Since the theories, terminology, techniques, systems, methods, rules, practice, suit, and spiritual foundation were scientifically developed, systematized, and named by the author, it is an error to think of any physical actions employing the hand and feet for self-defence as Tae Kwon Do. Only those who practice the techniques based on the author's theories, principals and philosophy are considered to be students of genuine Tae Kwon Do.

Tae Kwon Do is a modern, international martial art based on over 2,000 years of Korean tradition. Literally means the "way of the hand and foot," an accurate description since Tae Kwon Do practitioners are equally adept with hand strikes and kicking techniques.

Tae Kwon do is famous for its powerful leaping and spinning kicks, though students also learn close-quarters hand fighting, throws, joint manipulation and other basic elements of self-defense. This style of martial arts was practiced in Korea for centuries, but the name Tae Kwon Do was coined by General Choi Hong Hi in the 1950s when he ...

This is a preview of the whole essay

As a relatively modern martial art, Tae Kwon Do includes an advanced understanding of human physiology. Great attention is given to proper positioning of feet and joints so as to deliver strong techniques without injuring oneself. Such considerations are not as common in older martial arts and knee and back injuries often result. In Tae Kwon Do, students who already have bad knees or backs should see an improvement after even a few months of practice.

Although Tae Kwon Do provides effective self-defense skills, many people today study it for other benefits, among them cardiovascular fitness, increased mental energy and greater self-discipline. It is an efficient and stimulating way to keep fit, and something the whole family can do together. As you progress in Tae Kwon Do , you also discover that the mental and emotional balance required to excel in Tae Kwon Do carries over into your daily life, helping you focus and cope with the problems you may face.

The philosophy of Tae Kwon Do is based upon constant striving for excellence. The goal is to become an honorable person with perfect character and physical condition. To realise the ultimate benfits of Tae Kwon do, one must practice daily and comit to it for a life time. Though none of these goals is absolutely attainable, the key is one's endeavours.

In tae Kwon Do, we honor five fundamental tenets of living. These should serve as a guide to all serious students of the art, both inside and outside of class.

Courtesy. Students must show respect to their instructors, to hogher rnking students and to all others. Students must be polite and encourage a sense of justice. Students must constantly look within themselves and not be quick to judge others.

Integrity. One must beable to define right and wrong and have a conscience if wrong, tofeel remorse. Within the do-jang, one must look honestly attempt to do what ever the instructor asks. If you are asked to do 20 push ups, do not do only 10 because the instructor is not watching you. Outside the do-jang, students must not misrepresent themselves or rationalize their behaviour.

Perseverance. Nothing of any true good is easy. Perseverance and patience are required to excel at anything . perseverance means sticking to it. If you fail the first time, or even the hundredth time, try again, confident that you will succeed as long as your purpose is worthy.

Self Control. This tenet is extremely important inside and outside the do-jang, either conducting oneself in free sparring or in one's personal affairs. Good self control in free sparring enables ypu to execute stunning techniques without injuring your partners. Good self control in daily life allows you to work confortably and confidently with others.

Indomitable Spirit. Never be afraid to be yourself and trust your own judgement. Indomitable spirit is what ensures you to keep your ideals and your identity in the face of overwhelming pressures. It is the strength to reject the things that "everyone else is doing" if you believe them to be wrong.

The martial arts skills learned in Tae Kwon Do are to be used to prevent conflict and violence. Never should a Tae Kwon Do student initiate physical conflict, and the techniques of Tae Kwon Do should be used only as a last resort in self defense or in the defense of another person.