Taekwondo is a martial art originating in Korea, and has been passed down for centuries. In particular, Taekwondo focuses on balance - particularly between punches and kicks, and the beauty and power that comes from achieving it. Forms are structured in patterns that always end where they start. Weapons often alternate between both hands. Students are taught to not only be balanced students, but balanced people, whether in training, at school, or at home. Balance is the essence of what Taekwondo truly is.
Often, Taekwondo is split into four categories:
FORMS - Each belt rank has a specific form associated with them. Each testing cycle, students learn their respective belt's form from qualified instructors who walk with them each step of the way. Forms have a smooth progression - while a student may start with simple blocks and kicks, soon they will be doing jump spin hook kicks!
ONE-STEPS AND SPARRING SEGMENTS - These are short forms that teach vital moves used commonly in self-defense. These accompany the main forms, and often teach new moves that they will eventually used in main forms.
WEAPONS - Accompanying their forms, students will also learn a new weapon each testing cycle. These range from the Jahng Bong (bo staff), to the Ssahng Jeol Bong (nunchucks), to the broadsword, and so much more.
SPARRING - Students will learn how to spar - the most competitive aspect of Taekwondo. Sparring is point-based, and regulated by qualified officials. Here, students learn effective kicks and punches that are useful in self-defense.
However, Taekwondo is more than just fighting. One of the most fundamental parts of Taekwondo is the idea of teaching the student not only how to defend themselves, but also how to be good people - trying their best, and never giving up.
Each month, students will focus on a specific "theme of the month" that they are to continue to improve on throughout the month.