WHAT IS TAEKWONDO?
Taekwondo (or Tae Kwon Do) is a modern Korean martial art and
sport.  In many ways it is similar to Karate and Kung Fu, but it is
primarily known for its powerful kicking techniques.  Tae Kwon Do
developed rapidly after World War II.  Korean martial artists, free to
practice traditional Korean arts after years of Japanese rule, created
Taekwondo as a new national art.  Many different ancient fighting
styles provided the basis for the new art.  Since adoption of the name
Tae Kwon Do, meaning "The Way of the Foot and Fist", in the late
1950s, the art has developed and changed.  Sport fighting is now a
major component of the art.  Taekwondo was an official demonstration
game at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.  Since then Olympic-style Taekwondo
sparring has became an official Olympic sport.  Today Taekwondo is the
most widely practiced martial art in the world.


WHAT IS TAE KWON DO TRAINING LIKE?
Tae Kwon Do practice has several elements:

Basic Techniques (Kibon) - Basic movements are the building
blocks, or alphabet of Tae Kwon Do.  Students must regularly practice
stances, kicks, strikes and blocks to develop focus, accuracy and
powerful technique.

Forms (Poomse) - If basics are the alphabet of the art, the forms are
the textbooks.  Each level has a pattern or patterns of moves
representing self defense against multiple imaginary attackers.  
Students must learn and be able to perform these patterns before
attempting to promote.  Forms practice is important for developing
mental discipline, physical coordination and deeper understanding of
the art.

Sparring (Kyorugi) - Sparring is an extremely important element of
Tae Kwon Do practice.  Sparring helps students develop the physical
and emotional control necessary to sharpen their skills.  Until a
student practices with a live opponent, he is simply swimming on dry
land.  Today Olympic style sparring is the sport focus of Tae Kwon Do.  
Success in competition requires resolve and hard additional training.

Self Defense (Ho Shin Sul) - Self defense is the original purpose
behind the art.  Students learn to defend themselves against a variety
of attacks, grabs and holds.  Beginners learn self defense by applying
basic strikes, kicks and blocks.  At more advanced levels students
learn escapes, throws, falling, defense against weapons and finishing
holds.

Breaking (Kyukpa) - Tae Kwon Do is famous for amazing feats of skill
where practitioners break wood, bricks, stones or glass with their
hands, feet and sometimes their heads!  Extreme concentration,
confidence, proper technique and speed are required to break
successfully without injury.
CHANG'S MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY
6447 North Cicero Avenue  Lincolnwood, Illinois 60712
(847) 568-0952