TaeKwonDo is a philosophy, a way
of life, and a living art. As a philosophy and a way of life, it is
concerned with a better understanding of self through meditation, commitment,
concentration, focus achievement, and evaluation. This phenomenon of
experiencing and understanding self is what is meant by the spirit of TaeKwonDo.
As a living art it is the ultimate in “self defense” and “physical fitness” for
men, women and children. The central purpose of TaeKwonDo is the
development of human beings with sound minds and bodies who find or create peace
and harmony in their lives and the world around them.
The TaeKwonDo tradition is imparting a way of life to
those who study it. It teaches self-confidence through discipline and
patience. In life, it is important to fully appreciate the value of
self-confidence to successfully attain one’s goal. It is the single most
important aspect of Martial Artist’s development and it cannot be given to the
student but must be generated and enhanced from within. By teaching the
mind discipline, TaeKwonDo opens paths that were once blocked by uncertainty and
fear. Self-discipline builds character and character leads to good
self-esteem. When one feels good and confident about himself, he is able
to invest himself in helping others. By doing so, he adds to the
betterment and goodwill of the world in which we live. Patience is a
virtue that should be used to understand one’s circumstances. It promotes
clear thinking in the event of adversity. Patience not only insulates the
Martial Artist from discouragement, it also helps him to maintain constant
control of his emotions.
The real value in TaeKwonDo lies in what it can teach us
about ourselves; that we can be more than what we are now; that we have no need
of fear; and that our capacities for energy, awareness, compassion and excellent
health are far greater than what we know. TaeKwonDo is not just kicking
and punching. It is more than that. It is an outgoing test of
physical and mental fitness, of stamina, perseverance, courage and creativity.
It combines the best of mind and body discipline into an art form which can
become a way of life. When correctly learned and used, it is the perfect
physical fitness activity since it utilizes every muscle in the body while
naturally regulating a persons weight. As a psychological and
physiological stimulator, it develops flexibility, strength, muscle tone, speed,
reflexes and mental acuity.
TENETS OF
TAE KWON DO
COURTESY
INTEGRITY
PERSEVERANCE
SELF-CONTROL
INDOMITABLE SPIRIT
TAEKWONDO AIMS TO ACHIEVE:
SELF-CONFIDENCE
SELF-DISCIPLINE
SELF-DEFENSE
COURAGE
LOYALTY
MANNERS
RESPECT