Taekwondo

Taekwondo is a dynamic Korean martial art known for its powerful kicks, swift strikes, and defensive techniques. The name "Taekwondo" combines three Korean words: "Tae" (foot or kick), "Kwon" (fist or hand), and "Do" (way or discipline), reflecting its emphasis on both hand and foot techniques. Practitioners of Taekwondo train in a variety of moves such as high kicks, spinning kicks, and blocks, with a focus on speed, flexibility, and agility. The martial art not only improves physical fitness, strength, and coordination but also fosters discipline, respect, and self-control. Taekwondo is practiced both for self-defense and as a competitive sport, with forms and sparring being integral components of training. Recognized as an Olympic sport, Taekwondo offers an enriching path toward personal growth and physical mastery.

 India Taekwondo is the governing body for the sport of Taekwondo in India. It is responsible for promoting and organizing Taekwondo competitions, training athletes, and representing India in international events such as the World Taekwondo Championships and the Olympics. The organization works to develop the sport at the grassroots level, with a focus on encouraging youth participation and  improving the standards of athletes through training camps, seminars, and competitions. India has made significant progress in Taekwondo, with athletes achieving success in Asian and World Championships and earning Olympic recognition.

World Taekwondo (WT) is the international governing body for the sport of Taekwondo. It is responsible for overseeing global competitions, setting the rules and regulations, and promoting the sport worldwide. Founded in 1973, WT aims to develop Taekwondo as both a sport and an Olympic discipline, focusing on fostering peace, respect, and mutual understanding. It organizes major events such as the World Taekwondo Championships and the Taekwondo competitions in the Olympic Games. WT works closely with national Taekwondo organizations and promotes the growth of the sport across all age groups and skill levels globally.

The Asian Taekwondo Union (ATU) is the governing body for the sport of Taekwondo in Asia. Founded in 1976, it is responsible for promoting and developing Taekwondo across the continent, organizing regional competitions, and supporting the growth of the sport at all levels. The ATU works with national Taekwondo federations in Asian countries to ensure the standardization of rules, provide training opportunities, and encourage participation. It also plays a key role in preparing athletes for international events, including the Asian Taekwondo Championships and the Asian Games. The ATU aims to foster unity, peace, and friendship through the practice of Taekwondo in Asia.

Taekwondo is a dynamic martial art and sport that originated in Korea, known for its emphasis on high, fast kicks and powerful strikes. It combines elements of self-defense, physical fitness, and discipline, with a focus on respect, integrity, and perseverance. In competitive Taekwondo, athletes engage in sparring or perform forms (known as "poomsae") that demonstrate techniques and movements. It is an Olympic sport, with competitions held at various levels, from local tournaments to international championships. Taekwondo promotes physical and mental development, improving strength, flexibility, focus, and coordination.

Kyorugi is the term used for the sparring aspect of Taekwondo, where two athletes compete in a controlled, full-contact match. The goal is to score points by landing controlled strikes with hands and feet on the opponent's body or head, while adhering to strict rules of safety and sportsmanship. Kyorugi matches are typically held in a ring, with points awarded based on the quality and accuracy of attacks. The sport emphasizes speed, agility, strategy, and timing, and competitors wear protective gear to minimize injury. It is one of the core components of Taekwondo competition, including in the Olympic Games.

Poomsae in Taekwondo refers to a series of pre-arranged forms or patterns of movements that simulate combat against multiple opponents. These forms consist of a sequence of blocks, strikes, kicks, and stances, performed in a specific order to demonstrate precision, control, and technique. Poomsae helps practitioners develop discipline, focus, and balance, while also improving their understanding of Taekwondo techniques. It is a key element in training and is also featured in competitions, where athletes are judged on their performance, including accuracy, power, and fluidity.

Para Taekwondo is a version of Taekwondo specifically adapted for athletes with disabilities. It follows similar rules and techniques as traditional Taekwondo but is modified to accommodate various physical challenges. Para Taekwondo includes both Kyorugi (sparring) and Poomsae (forms) events, with divisions based on the type and extent of the disability. The sport promotes inclusivity, physical fitness, and empowerment, allowing athletes with disabilities to showcase their skills and compete at national and international levels. Para Taekwondo was included in the Paralympic Games starting in 2020, providing a global platform for athletes with disabilities.