Taekwondo
Gihap!
This is a typical shout in the Korean martial art we know as “Taekwondo”. Taekwondo is a martial art known for its headheight kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques. What do you learn in Taekwondo?
The basic techniques of taekwondo include kicks, blocks, punches, and strikes. There is also a whole lot of throwing and falling involved as well.
However, there is also a spiritual side of taekwondo. The ultimate purpose of Taekwondo is the development of discipline,
self-confidence, modesty and benevolence.
We can see this in the name of “Taekwondo” itself.
Tae means to kick or smash with feet.
Kwon means to punch or destroy with hands or fists.
Do refers to the art or the way that emphasises the spiritual aspect of the martial art.
Hence, Taekwondo literally means the ‘art of foot and hand fighting’ and is a way of life for most of its participants.
Competitive Taekwondo
There are mainly two events in competitive taekwondo: Poomsae and Kyorugi. It is the Kyorugi event that we most often see on television. The contest involves two competitors. After bowing to each other, they try to earn points by successfully landing kicks to the opponent’s head and body. Each contest consists of 3 rounds lasting 3 minutes per round for men and 2 minutes per round for women. You can also win by knocking out your opponent. But of course, the goal is not to injure your opponent. This is why there is the mandatory use of protective gears during competitions.
Taekwondo in Singapore
The Singapore Taekwondo Federation is Singapore’s national governing body for taekwondo. It aims to promote the martial art and help all taekwondo participants achieve their potential. It has a training centre fully equipped with a wide range of facilities. Members can join courses, get graded, and watch live demonstrations.
This martial art is growing in popularity and is offered as a CCA in many Singapore schools. Every year, the National Schools Taekwondo Championships is held in April. Many schools promote this CCA as it gives
students a chance to learn discipline, resilience, respect towards peers and seniors, while also building up their physical fitness.
If you are interested in trying the sport, but your school does not offer it as a CCA, you can always take a class at your neighbourhood community club. Why not give it a go? ♦