WHAT IS TAE KWON-DO
....and what if I like what I see?
TAE KWON-DO literally means THE ART OF THE
FOOT AND HAND. It is a Korean martial art, which although having roots in the
ancient orient, was developed to its present form in the middle of this century.
Inaugurated in 1955 by its founder Major General Choi Hong Hi, Tae Kwon-Do was
introduced into this country in 1967 by 8th Dan Master Rhee Ki Ha.
Tae Kwon-Do incorporates many facets,
including self-defence, fitness, flexibility, discipline, confidence-building
etc. One of the most attractive aspects of Tae Kwon-Do training is that it is
available to anyone; young or old, male or female, fit or unfit, because it
allows you to learn at your own pace. Many people train in Tae Kwon-Do for
fitness, others for self-defence, and many enjoy entering the competitions. You
can get as much out of it as you want.
Tae Kwon-Do is probably best known for its
spectacular kicking techniques which are obviously heavily featured in our
demonstrations, but solid basic stances, blocks, and punches are also taught as
a strong foundation to build on. The class always starts, as with most properly
run sports, with an energetic warm-up to prevent pulls and strains, and
likewise, at the end of the lesson we warm-down to prevent excess muscle
fatigue.
For your tuition you will pay a monthly fee,
in advance, which will entitle you to train not only twice a week at this
school, but as many times as you wish at the many clubs throughout the South
and West of England.
You will need to be licensed by the TAGB and
the BTC (British Tae Kwon-Do Council), this will also insure you in case of
injury during training. This is an annual payment, which should be made within
the first month of training.
Initially you will be graded at roughly
three monthly intervals by a 7th degree Black Belt qualified examiner.
Thereafter, as you increase in seniority, more time is needed to practise your
skills and develop your philosophy of Tae Kwon-Do. For example; it may only
take you 4 years to gain your Black Belt, but to grade from 4th Dan to 5th Dan
will take at least 5 years.
Although we insist on a courteous and
respectful attitude, our classes are varied, interesting, and fun, and if you
decide to take up Tae Kwon-Do with us, you can be assured of 100% commitment
and encouragement from me, and all of the TAGB instructors.
I look forward to welcoming you
C.J.Barrett 5th Dan
Winchester Tae Kwon-Do