Taekwondo: More Than Just Kicks and Punches!
Hey there young Taekwondo enthusiast! As you get ready for your black belt, let’s dive into what Taekwondo really means. It’s not just about learning cool moves – it’s a lot more!
What Does “Taekwondo” Mean?
The word “Taekwondo” might sound like three words in English – “Tae,” “Kwon,” “Do” – but it’s one word in Korean. “Tae” means using your foot or leg, “Kwon” means your fist or fighting, and “Do” is about following the right path or way. So, Taekwondo is about using your feet and fists the right way, not just for fighting, but to stop fights and make the world more peaceful. Pretty awesome, right?
A Cool History Lesson:
Taekwondo comes from Korea and has a history of over 5000 years! It started with different names like “Subak” or “Taekkyon.” It was part of the training for Hwarangdo warriors, who were super cool leaders in ancient Korea.
What Makes Taekwondo Special:
Taekwondo is full of exciting moves, especially with your feet. It helps you connect your body movements with your mind and feelings. Imagine making your body, mind, and heart work together as a team – that’s what Taekwondo does!
Why It’s More Than Just Martial Arts:
Taekwondo is about bringing everything in harmony – your body, your thoughts, and your actions. When you practice Taekwondo, you learn to calm your mind and make your movements and life all flow together. This isn’t just about being strong in fights; it’s about being strong in life too.
Taekwondo as a Way of Life:
Think of Taekwondo like a super-important life skill. It teaches you to face tough situations and find peace. You learn to be safe, not just by winning fights but by creating a peaceful and safe world for everyone. That’s a big part of being a black belt!
What’s Next for You:
As you earn your black belt, remember that Taekwondo is a journey, not just a sport. It’s about growing up to be a strong, kind, and wise person. You’re not just learning to kick and punch; you’re learning to make the world a better place. So, wear your black belt with pride and be a shining example of what Taekwondo really is!
The Black Belt Ideal
The Black Belt Ideal is one of the most fundamental concepts in Taekwondo. Every student, from a 4-year-old White Belt to a Master Instructor, strives to live every day by the 5 Tenets of Taekwondo. As Taekwondo practitioners, we endeavor to live our lives to our fullest potential and to leave every person, place, and situation better off than we found it.
5 Tenets of Taekwondo
COURTESY*
In the Dojang: You treat all students and dojang family members with great respect and politeness.
Outside of the Dojang: You treat people the way you like to be treated, making good manners your first reaction to any situation.
INTEGRITY*
In the Dojang: You’re honest in your effort and your personal work ethic. You’re true to yourself and do your best from the moment you “bow in.”
Outside of the Dojang: You are honest with all people and always do your best to keep your word.
PERSEVERANCE*
In the Dojang: You never give up. No matter what the odds, you keep striving to succeed.
Outside of the Dojang: You are not a “quitter.” You see things through.
SELF-CONTROL*
In the Dojang: You do your best to live by Student Creed #2. You strive to be “neither too high nor too low.” You do what you are supposed to do when you are supposed to do it.
Outside of the Dojang: You remain even-tempered even when under great stress. You maintain physical and emotional balance.
INDOMITABLE SPIRIT*
In the Dojang: To believe in yourself. To have confidence and a positive attitude always.
Outside of the Dojang: You have a “Yes, I can!” attitude that never leaves you.