For more information about these organisations please click on the links at the top or bottom of this page.

WHAT IS TAE KWON DO?

Tae Kwon Do is a Korean form of unarmed combat, famous for it's spectacular jumping and kicking techniques. It is a very popular international sport and became an Olympic sport in 1988. In the modern world it is practiced for self defence, sport or just as a hobby. Training in Tae Kwon Do can benefit your everyday life in many ways. For example:

• Improved health and fitness
• Improved flexibility and stamina
• Learn self defence skills
• Build your self confidence
• Improve your self awareness
• Reduce stress
• Build positive attitude
• Build strength of character
• Discipline of mind and body
• Make new friendships

The meaning of the words Tae Kwon Do translate as:

Tae - To jump, kick or smash with the foot.
Kwon - To intercept, punch, strike or destroy with the hand.
Do - Way, art or method.

Therefore Tae Kwon Do could be thought of as The way of the foot and hand.

The Founder of Tae Kwon Do is generally accepted to be Major General Choi Hong Hi, 9th degree Black Belt (1918 - 2002). However Tae kwon Do has been around for many centuries in one form or another. In the 1950's a group of leading Korean martial arts experts came together to unify their respective disciplines under a single fighting system. Since it's inauguration on 11th April 1955, Major General Choi Hong Hi, continually developed Tae Kwon Do into what it is today.

Major General Choi Hong Hi

Tae Kwon Do was developed from several different martial arts. Taek Kyon (or Taekyon), Korean kick fighting was a major influence. Taek Kyon was first practicsed during the Koguryo Dynasty (37 BC - AD 668). Therefore Tae Kwon Do's roots are nearly 2000 years old.

Tae Kwon Do was introduced to the United Kingdom on 2nd July 1967 by Rhee Ki Ha.

The Tae Kwon Do Association of Great Britain (T.A.G.B.) was formed on 21st August 1983.

The British Tae Kwon Do Council (B.T.C.) was formed on 21st April 1988.

Tae Kwon Do International (T.I.) was formed 13th November 1993.

For more information about these organisations please click on the links at the top or bottom of this page.

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