Discover the original purpose and training of taekwondo The principles and techniques illustrated in this book, having been handed down over the decades, if not centuries, emphasize a core philosophy rich in defensive strategy. Taekwondo, literally translated, can be defined as "foot, hand way" or "the way of smashing with hands and feet." Such descriptive nomenclature understandably implies a curriculum rich in self-defense. Too often, however, this is simply not the case. Given the current popularity of sport competition in the martial arts, many techniques of defensive value have been stripped away or forfeited altogether in favor of those certain to score in the ring. While the thirst for Olympic gold has clearly played a significant role in propelling taekwondo into the forefront, it should be remembered that this native Korean martial art contains over 3200 distinct self defense techniques. This book describes in detail, the history and evolution of Taekwondo from its ancient roots to modern day applications. Also included are exercises in "Ki" or internal energy development, meditation practice, and practical self-defense strategies. This work focuses on the traditional aspects of Taekwondo rather than on its sportive component.

Taekwondo Kyorugi is the authority on taekwondo sparring. Written by Korean Olympic Gold Medallist Kuk Hyun Chung, WTF Deputy-Secretary General Kyung Myung Lee and renowned martial arts author Sang H Kim, it is a direct translation of the original Korean text. Learn the skills, drills, strategies and methods used by Korean coaches and competitors for years. Footwork, kicks, hand target drills, heavy bag workouts, coaching, combinations, strategy, professional training, opponent analysis, conditioning, weight control, competition tips, official Olympic rules, scientific analysis of scoring and more.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the historical, political, and technical evolution of taekwondo. Many of the supposedly ‘traditional’ and ‘ancient’ Korean cultural elements attached to taekwondo are, in fact, remnants of East Asia’s modernization drive, and largely inherited from the Japanese martial arts. The current historical portrayal has created an obstacle to a clear understanding of the history of taekwondo, and presents problems and contradictions in philosophy and training methodology. Using rich empirical data, including interviews with leading figures in the field, this book brings together martial arts philosophy with an analysis of the technical aspects and the development of taekwondo, and provides a detailed comparison of karate and taekwondo techniques. It debunks nationalistic mythology surrounding taekwondo to provide a reinterpretation of taekwondo’s evolution.

The eagerly anticipated updated return of a bestselling martial arts classic The leaders of Tae Kwon Do, an Olympic sport and one of the worldÍs most popular martial arts, are fond of saying that their art is ancient and filled with old dynasties and superhuman feats. In fact, Tae Kwon Do is as full of lies as it is powerful techniques. Since its rough beginnings in the Korean military 60 years ago, the art empowered individuals and nations, but its leaders too often hid the painful truths that led to that empowerment „ the gangsters, secret-service agents, and dictators who encouraged cheating, corruption, and murder. A Killing Art: The Untold History of Tae Kwon Do takes you into the cults, geisha houses, and crime syndicates that made Tae Kwon Do. It shows how, in the end, a few key leaders kept the art clean and turned it into an empowering art for tens of millions of people in more than 150 countries. A Killing Art is part history and part biography „ and a wild ride to enlightenment. This new and revised edition of the bestselling book contains previously unnamed sources and updated chapters.

In Taekwondo: A Technical Manual, renowned Master Gilles Savoie presents the art and science of the popular martial art, showing practitioners how to optimize both body and spirit. While other taekwondo books simply document traditional forms and exercises, this one goes further, providing an in-depth look at the body mechanics and physics of taekwondo movements. Armed with this information, says Master Savoie, the practitioner can improve control, optimize speed, increase power, and maintain balance. Taekwondo: A Technical Manual not only teaches optimal taekwondo technique but emphasizes visualization, balance, and overall wellbeing to enhance athletic abilities, fusing the physical and philosophical components of the art. Also included is an introduction to reflexology theory, teaching basic techniques to help taekwondo practitioners relax and self-treat common muscle aches and pains. Seventy black-and-white photographs and diagrams illustrate each of the movements and techniques described.

Although millions of people around the world practice this fascinating art, very few know the real story behind it.

A comprehensive instructional guide to the world's most popular martial art. 16-pp. photo insert. 350 illustrations. Media attention.