The most common martial arts practiced in North America are karate and taekwondo. It takes place in Korea and is a combination of combat technique, exercise, self defense. It is treated as the national sport of Korea and also as the Olympic sports event.
Most Taekwondo and Karate practitioners wear the same type of white GI uniforms with multi-colored belts. The colored belt designates various ranks of karate practitioners, with white representing beginners and black representing the instructor levels and above. However, there are other ranges of colors in between. Some of the more Americanized schools wear uniforms with other colors like red, black, and blue. Many schools began to practice representing black belt levels by adding a black line to white uniforms. Additionally, a V-neck T-shirt is a symbol of affiliation with the World Federation.
Taekwondo has two styles, one under the International Federation and the other under the World Federation. It teaches punching and kicking and is classified into four sections: Toning, Sparring, Forms, and Self Defense. It is an exercise program that includes toning, stretching and flexibility of the muscles, increasing strength and endurance through aerobic combat. The kicks used in Taekwondo combat are more striking than in any other martial art.
The combat is classified into two: one-step combat and free combat. In one-step combat, it involves preset movements performed by the participants. When one participant uses punching and kicking techniques, the other uses various combinations of blocking and counterattack techniques. The practical application of self-defense techniques is called free combat.
Taekwondo martial arts competition takes place in a controlled environment and is called sparring. It requires all participants to wear protective gear: helmet, gloves, shin guards, and foot protectors. Many people enjoy Taekwondo, or any martial art, as it is an all-inclusive exercise program. It’s fun, challenging, and a great way to get in or stay in shape.
Taekwondo is about developing moral character, seeking perfection, and self-discipline.