The literal translation of Tae Kwon Do is "foot, hand, art" or "the way of the hand and foot."

Taekwon-Do is a modernized and scientifically developed version of a centuries-old Korean martial art. Hundreds of years ago in Korea the warrior class of society known as the Hwa Rang practiced a form of weaponless combat known as Taek Kyon, and developed a code of conduct to serve as a guideline to compliment their intensive physical training.

Taek Kyon shared many features of its style with forms of weaponless combat from China and Japan. It is difficult to determine whether the techniques appeared spontaneously as circumstances provided a need for a given method. In any case, this Korean martial art has, within the last century, been developed into one with an unmistakable style of its own.

Taekwon-Do is not to be confused with many other styles of kick boxing. Emphasis is placed on the aspect of self-defence, and the necessary personal development of self-control.

Concurrent with ones physical ability (coordination, strength, reflex, endurance, speed etc.) there are five Tenets of Taekwon-Do which must be learned and practiced for one to be called a true practitioner of the martial art: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable Spirit. Failure to master the five Tenets leaves one only with ability to fight, and without the ability to improve oneself or to help others. People find many different reasons for learning Taekwon-Do. Some are concerned with physical fitness and weight control, while others are more concerned with character strength, self discipline and confidence. Self defence is always a major reason; and others enjoy it simply as a means of stress relief.

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