About Taekwon-Do

 

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Taekwon-Do is a Korean Martial Art designed for the purpose of self-defence.

 

It is the scientific use of the body in the method of self-defence - a body that has gained the maximum use of its abilities through intensive training, both physical and mental.

 

Taekwon-Do is an excellent way of improving both fitness and overall health, and also acquiring effective self-defence skills.

 

Taekwon-Do training has many aspects. The main areas are Patterns, Pre-arranged Sparring, Free Sparring and Destruction.

 

Taekwon-Do has developed over centuries until its present form was established in the 1950's by Grandmaster Choi Hong Hi 9th degree. It became officially recognised as the Martial Art of Korea in 1955

 

 

Aspects of Taekwon-Do

 

Sparring

Free Sparring is the process of 2 students in full protective equipment attempting to score points by hitting legal targets on each other with hand and or foot techniques. Sparring at school level is always touch contact only. Part of the assessment of good sparring skills is the student showing controlled levels of contact.

Pre-arranged sparring exercises are used to develop self-defence skills with a partner. Techniques range from simple combinations with a partner at white belt to freestyle one step attack, defence and  counter attack at black belt. The training system also helps develop quick reflexes and the ability to read opponent body language.

Students of different grades will train together and higher grades are always expected to train and coach  with lower grades. This is especially true for juniors who are new to the art.

 

Patterns

Patterns are the agreed sequences of movements which are designed to mirror combat moves with an imaginary opponent. The patterns gradually increase in complexity and difficulty as students progress through the grades.

 

Destruction

Destruction tests a student's techniques through power testing. Power testing involves striking and breaking reconstructible boards or striking kick shields or pads. ( Please note breaking is optional  and students need to be over the age of 16 to power test with boards.)

 

Competitions

With the exception of Pre-Arranged Sparring all the above are categories within competitions. Noble Dragons students regularly attend regional, national and international competitions.

 

Students are not expected to compete but if they show the inclination and aptitude then Noble Dragons Instructors are extremely well qualified to train and develop individuals in this aspect of the Art. Many Noble Dragons Students hold National and International Titles.