Let’s start with a definition of the term “martial arts.” The term “martial arts” is simply organized way a person learns to defend themselves from someone who initially attacks them first. It is an ancient practice that has had its roots in many forms in many cultures and locations throughout the world. The word “martial” means “military.” The word “art” refers to a way of expression. So, the term “martial arts” can simply be defined as a militant structured way a person uses in order to fight off his/her attackers.
The style you will be learning is a Korean art called Tae Kwon Do. Tae Kwon Do (roughly translated) means “the way of the hands and the feet” or “methods of the feet and fists.” There are actually two popular theories as to the origins of Tae Kwon Do. One says that the roots of Tae Kwon Do had spawned from two Korean kicking styles called Subak and Taekkyeon that was established in the late 18th to early 19th Century. The other theory states that Tae Kwon Do was officially established in the 1940’s by a man named General Choi Hong Hi in South Korea. Even though the formation of Tae Kwon Do was a collaborated effort by many masters, he is still considered to be the “founding father” of Tae Kwon Do by the International Taekwondo Federation. I must also add here that there are some Tae Kwon Do practitioners that will find either statement a bit controversial. As always, you are free to do your own research and make up your own mind.
