Taekwon-Do

Sometime late last year (just after moving to Cranfield Uni in Swindon) I decided that I was lacking in any form of exercise. So, with a few other friends we looked around and eventually joined up to Leigh Childs Academy in Old Town, Swindon.

I must admit to begin with it was all a bit intimidating, with all the instructors having insane smiles on their faces as well as all the students bowing / screaming / shouting / chanting. But, after settling in and getting to know the people there, I've been progressing well, improving my fitness / flexibility and of course learning the techniques of this ancient Korean art.

So, to all of you who are unsure about taking up some form of martial art (whether it be Twaekwon-Do, Karate, Jujitsu) then it is well worth it, both physically and mentally (helps confidence building, reflexes, discipline, commitment and such like) and most schools of this nature will let you look around and/or offer a free introductory session first.

Although the origins of the martial arts are shrouded in mystery, we consider it an undeniable fact that from time immemorial there have been physical actions involving the use of the hands and feet for purpose of self-protection.

If we were to define these physical actions as "Taekwon-Do", any country might claim credit for inventing Taekwon-Do. There is, however, scant resemblance between Taekwon-Do, as it is practiced today, and the crude forms of unarmed combat developed in the past.

Modern Taekwon-Do differs greatly from other martial arts. In fact, no other martial art is so advanced with regard to the sophistication and effectiveness of its technique or the over-all physical fitness it imparts to its practitioners.

Since the theories, terminology, techniques, systems, methods, rules, practice suit, and spiritual foundation were scientifically developed, systematized, and named by the author, it is an error to think of any physical actions employing the hand and feet for self-defence as Taekwon-Do. Only those who practice the techniques based on the author's theories, principles and philosophy are considered to be students of genuine Taekwon-Do.

Belt Progression

Principles of Black Belt

• Courtesy
  Meaning: To be polite to one's instructors, seniors and fellow students
• Integrity
  Meaning: To be honest with oneself. One must be able to define right and wrong
• Perseverance
  Meaning: Never give up. To achieve a goal, whether it is a higher grade or any technique, one must not stop trying; one must persevere
• Self-Control
  Meaning: Never lose your temper. To lose one's temper when performing techniques against an opponent can be very dangerous and shows lack of control. To be able to live, work and train within one's capability shows good self control
• Humility
  Meaning: No one is perfect. No matter how much we know, we can always learn more
• Indomitable Spirit
  Meaning: To show courage. When you and your principles are pitted against overwhelming odds