Taekwondo is a form of martial art that has been developed in Korea
for over 20 centuries and has grown into a popular international martial art as well as a sport.
The term Taekwondo means art of hands and feet. Taekwondo combines sharp, strong, angular strikes
in free flowing circular movements with its trademark kicking techniques to form a complete
system of self-defense and individual improvement.
Jidokwan is the name of one of the seven major Taekwondo schools
which exist in Korea today. The Korean word Jidokwan is derived from
Ji meaning wisdom, do
meaning way of or art of and
kwan meaning school. Translated, this
becomes School of Wisdom. Eum Yang school is
affiliated with the Korea Taekwondo Association and World Taekwondo
Federation,
(WTF) KUKKIWON and Taekwondo Australia.
Hapkido is another popular Korean martial art. Hapkido means the
art of harmony and power. Hapkidoists are taught to meet an attack, turn it back against the
aggressor and follow through with offensive methods. Methods include blocks, joint twists, locks and throws,
kicks and strikes, punches and pressure points. Weaponry is also taught. Long stick, short stick,
walking cane, sword, knife and fan are used. Emphasis is placed on self-control as this element
becomes crucial in situations requiring self-defense. Hapkido is a complete all-round system
of martial art.