History Of TKD

The style of Karate or so-called “empty hand” fighting that you have enrolled in is the Korean style of Tae Kwon Do.  Tae Kwon Do literally means “flying feet and fists” and consists of many jumping kicks and various hand and fist movements, but is only used as a means of self defense and not as a means “to prove that you are better or stronger.”

Blocking becomes an important part of learning the Martial Art because we have to train ourselves to be as strong on defense as we are on offense.

The Kiai (yell) in Karate is a shout brought from the lower abdomen.  It is used to lessen the opponent’s confidence and startle your opponent.  It also enables the attacker’s mind to be cleared and to commit himself totally to his technique.

The stances (positions) in Karate differ from those used in everyday living.  Karate stances are designed to help you move into different techniques while maintaining balance.  The three basic stances in Tae Kwon Do are the Front Learning Stance, Cat Stance and Straddle Leg Stance.

Form is a pre-arranged fighting sequence.  The purpose of form is:  to connect basic moves to free fighting techniques; to practice techniques in different directions and situations, usually in movement; and to obtain speed, balance, strength and timing.