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Indonesia International Taekwon-Do Federation (IITF)

What is the Indonesia International TaekwonDo Federation (IITF)?

The Indonesian International Taekwon-Do Federation is the official representative organization which develops and teaches the ITF Taekwon-Do in Indonesia.

When was It Established?

The IITF organization was legally approved by the Indonesian law on December 1st 2006 in Jakarta
IITF Organization was under the leadership of Rudijanto Tanoesoedibjo as the President who was appointed by the Grand Master Dr. Leong Wai Meng, the Vice President of the ITF.
Hence, December 1st 2006 is settled as the birth of IITF, the official representative of ITF in Indonesia.

Due to the appointment, IITF is officially a member of ITF.
In the Asian regions, IITF is member of Asia Taekwon-Do Federation – ATF (ITF representative in Asia).

Why is The Indonesia International Taekwon-Do Federation Established? What is The Purpose?

IITF was established to develop Taekwon-Do ITF and to teach students to become better persons who have courtesy, intergrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.

Other than that, IITF also builds up the members mentality so they will develop good morality, philosophy, discipline, confidence and a positive way of thinking.

What is The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF)?

The International Taekwon-Do Federation is the main organization which trains and develops the original Taekwon-Do martial arts all over the world.
This organization is founded by General Choi Hong Hi on March 22nd 1966.
He also launched the Taekwon-Do martial arts on April 11th 1955; therefore, he was claimed as the Father of Taekwon-Do.

General Choi Hong Hi was the first president of ITF and he actively participated in developing Taekwon-Do all over the world. He died on June 15th 2002.
Professor Chang Ung, who became the second president of ITF after the death of General Choi Hong Hi, is still actively present and is a member of IOC (International Olympiad Committee) from North Korea.

Due to the political conflict in North Korea in 1972, the ITF Headquarter was moved to Toronto, Canada. However since 1985 up to now, the ITF Headquarter has been located in Vienna, Austria.

The political conflict which occurred in the origin country provoked other Taekwon-Do organization to rise and compete with the ITF.
It is called the World Taekwon-Do Federation (WTF).

Nevertheless, the ITF remains consistent to conserve the values of the original Taekwon-Do based on the creator’s teaching.
The values mentioned are stated in the latter part about the purpose of learning and training the ITF Taekwon-Do.
ITF Taekwon-Do serves as martial arts and it does not put all attention on merely sport or competitive sports.
The distinguishing part in the ITF Taekwon-Do is the use of sine wave.

Who Can Learn and Train ITF Taekwon-Do?

ITF Taekwon-Do does not see differences in ideology, religion and race.
Whoever is interested in learning ITF Taekwon-Do may join to learn and train without age and gender limitation.
Children, teenagers, adult, male or female are free to join.
People with physical disabilities are also welcomed to join.

What Are The Benefits of Learning and Training ITF Taekwon-Do?

The benefits of learning and training ITF Taekwon-Do other than for self-defense are as follows:

- Enhancing the quality and balance of life.
It is built through discipline, confidence and positive attitude in the training, which naturally will be instilled in our personal and social life.

- Developing fitness and healthy body.
Practicing Taekwon-Do ITF techniques correctly and intensively will naturally achieve healthy body, strength, edurance, flexibility, speed, liveliness, accuracy and coordination of body movements. The trainings will benefit in reducing the unwanted body weight.

- Building the ability to interact socially.
The spirit of togetherness, kinship and awareness which is developed in every student of Taekwon-Do ITF in the training will make them have good social interaction with their surroundings. Moreover, friendship established among students of Taekwon-Do ITF worldwide create more global social interactions.

- Possessing an invisible weapon.
Learning and training Taekwon-Do ITF can help someone posses an invisible weapon, therefore creating a sense of security in one-self. This is beneficial particularly for women who deal with uncomfortable situations or harassments.

- Special benefits for children.
It is beneficial for developing movement coordination, concentration, and level of independence at an early age. A child may learn these abilities quickly through Taekwon-Do ITF training. Taekwon-Do ITF instructors around the world have experienced and have proven that the Taekwon-Do ITF training program is more effective and efficient for children to achieve those abilities than any other activities.

What is The Goal of Learning And Training ITF Taekwon-Do?

ITF Taekwon-Do aims to achieve:
- Courtesy.
- Integrity.
- Perseverance.
- Self-control.
- Indomitable spirit.

Mind, body and moral character balance will be achieved by learning and training ITF Taekwon-Do.

What Is ITF Taekwon-Do?

ITF Taekwon-Do is a version of unarmed combat designed for the purpose of self-defense. It is more than just that, however.

It is the scientific use of the body in the method of self-defense; a body that has gained the ultimate use of its facilities through intensive physical and mental training

Though it is a martial art, its discipline, technique and mental training are the mortar for building a strong sense of justice, fortitude, humility and resolve. It is this mental conditioning that separates the true practitioner from the sensationalist, content with mastering only the fighting aspects of the art.

This is one of the reasons that Taekwon-Do ITF is called an art of self-defense. It also implies a way of thinking and life, particularly in instilling a concept and spirit of strict self-imposed discipline and an ideal of noble moral rearmament.

Translated literally "Tae stands for jumping or flying, to kick or smash with the foot. "Kwon" denotes the fist-chiefly to punch or destroy with the hand or fist. "Do" means an art or way.

ITF Taekwon-Do is a modern martial arts created by General Choi Hong Hi through a set of research on other martial arts and the reinforcement of modern scientific of Taekwon-Do techniques, designed in order to produce maximum and effective power.

What is Taekwon-Do?

Taekwon-Do is a version of unarmed combat designed for the purpose of self-defence. It is more than just that, however. It is the scientific use of the body in the method of self-defence; a body that has gained the ultimate use of its facilities through intensive physical and mental training.

Though it is a martial art, its discipline, technique and mental training are the mortar for building a strong sense of justice, fortitude, humility and resolve. It is this mental conditioning that separates the true practitioner from the sensationalist, content with mastering only the fighting aspects of the art.

This is one of the reasons that Taekwon-Do is called an art of self-defence. It also implies a way of thinking and life, particularly in instilling a concept and spirit of strict self-imposed discipline and an ideal of noble moral rearmament.

Translated literally "Tae" stands for jumping or flying, to kick or smash with the foot. "Kwon" denotes the fist-chiefly to punch or destroy with the hand or fist. "Do" means an art or way.

Thus taken collectively "Taekwon-Do" indicates the mental training and the techniques of unarmed combat for self-defence as well as health, involving the skilled application of punches, kicks, blocks and dodges with bare hands and feet to the rapid destruction of the moving opponent or opponents.

Taekwon-Do definitely enables the weak to possess a fine weapon together with confidence to defend him or herself and defeat the opponent as well. Of course, wrongly applied, Taekwon-Do can be a lethal weapon. Therefore mental training must always be stressed to prevent the student from misusing it.

As for women folk, they will undoubtedly find Taekwon-Do an invaluable asset in tackling and driving away "wolves", so to speak. When one is informed of the many instances where frail women effectively protected themselves, they may sound unbelievable. But really, they have been able to do so because they are well versed in the art of self-defence.

Incessant training is essential to keep oneself in top form and physical condition. In training, all the muscles of the human body will be used. From the use of one's muscles, it will be possible to harness all available power generated by every muscular contraction. It will then be necessary to deliver such power to the human target especially to where the most vulnerable points or vital spots of one's opponent are located, in particular when the opponent is in motion. At this point it is necessary to remind the students of Taekwon-Do that this art of self-defence is specially designed for swift retaliation against the moving aggressor.

Hours spent on training will not be wasted; for surely you will reap a rich reward in the form of speedy reactions and deadly blows to rain down upon your enemy or in any case to save life if and when a need arises. Even if Taekwon-Do is practiced for the sake of exercise alone, the enjoyment derived will justify the time invested and spent. As an exercise, it is equally suitable for the old and young, male and female.

Profile - Kim Song Gi

Name: Kim Song Gi
DOB: July 14th, 1972
TKD Dan: VI Dan, International Instructor
Position: IITF Chief Instructor 2008 - current

Graduation from the Department of Experts, the Korean Sports University
TKD Competitor in the Korean TKD Committee
Graduation from the Department of Coaches, the Korean Sports University
TKD Instructor in the Korean TKD Committee

Nov. 2003 ~ present
- 1st place in 80kg-category Sparring and Overall Male Team Rank, at the “Sept. 10 Prize” international TKD Tournament Sept. 1988.

- 1st place in 80kg-category Sparring and Overall Male Team Rank, at the 1st Asian TKD Championship in Tokyo, Japan, in Oct. 2000.

- 1st place in Male Individual Power Breaking and Overall Male Team Rank, at the 11th TKD World Championship held in 1999, Argentina.

- Records of International Demonstration
South Korea: Oct. 2002
Greece: Apr. 2003
China: Oct. 2004
Estonia: Nov. 2004
Bulgaria: Jul. 2006
South Korea: Apr. 2007

General Choi Hong Hi

General Choi Hong Hi - the legend - founder of probably the most popular martial art the world has ever known. He was an inspiration to all those who come in to contact with him, either in person or through his books.

Below is a brief biography.

First of all, it must be said about General Choi, that he gave so much devotion to this art, that the man, his life and his work were one. He developed and brought the little-known ancient genre up-to-date through the long years of assiduous, zealous application and firm resolution. If Taekwon-Do today has gained international status, it is because of the tireless efforts of one man -- the father of modern Taekwon-Do.

General Choi Hong Hi was born on November 9th, 1918 in the rugged and harsh area of Hwa Dae, Myong Chun District in what is now D.P.R of Korea. In his youth, he was frail and quite sickly, a constant source of worry for his parents.

Even at an early age, however, the future general showed a strong and independent spirit. At the age of twelve he was expelled from school for agitating against the Japanese authorities who were in control of Korea. This was the beginning of what would be a long association with the Kwang Ju Students’ Independence Movement.

After his expulsion, young Choi’s father sent him to study calligraphy under one of the most famous teachers in Korea, Mr. Han II Dong. Han, in addition to his skills as a calligrapher, was also a master of Taek Kyon, the ancient Korean art of foot fighting. The teacher, concerned over the frail condition of his new student, began teaching him the rigorous exercises of Taek Kyon to help build up his body.

In 1937, Choi was sent to Japan to further his education. Shortly before leaving, however, the youth had the misfortune to engage in a rather heated argument with a massive professional wrestler who promised to literally tear the youth limb from limb at their next encounter. This threat seemed to give a new impetus to young Choi’s training in the martial arts.

In Kyoto, Choi met a fellow Korean, Mr. Him, who was engaged in teaching the Japanese martial art, Karate. With two years of concentrated training, Choi attained the rank of first degree black belt. These techniques, together with Taek Kyon (foot techniques), were the forerunners of modern Taekwon-Do.

There followed a period of both mental and physical training, preparatory school, high school, and finally the University in Tokyo. During this time, training and experimentation in his new fighting techniques were intensified until, with attainment of his second degree black belt, he began teaching at a YMCA in Tokyo, Japan.

Choi recounted a particular experience from this period of time. There was no lamp-post in the city that he didn’t strike or kick to see if the copper wires ahead were vibrating in protest.

"I would imagine that these were the techniques I would use to defend myself against the wrestler, Mr. Hu if he did attempt to carry out his promise to tear me limb from limb when I eventually returned to Korea."

With the outbreak of World War II, he was forced to enlist in the Japanese army through no volition of his own. While at his post in Pyongyang, North Korea, he was implicated as the planner of the Korean Independence Movement and interned at a Japanese prison during his eight month pretrial examination.

While in prison, to alleviate the boredom and keep physically fit, Choi began practicing this art in the solitude of his cell. In a short time, his cellmate and jailer became students of his. Eventually, the whole prison courtyard became one gigantic gymnasium.

The liberation in August 1945 spared Choi from an imposed seven year prison sentence. Following his release, the ex-prisoner journeyed to Seoul where he organized a student soldier’s party. In January of the following year, Choi was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the new south Korean army, the "Launching Pad" for putting Taekwon-Do into a new orbit.

Soon after, he made company commander in Kwang-Ju where the young second lieutenant lighted the torch of this art by teaching his entire company and was then promoted to first lieutenant and transferred to Tae Jon in charge of the Second Infantry Regiment. While at his new post, Choi began spreading the art not only to Korean soldiers but also to the Americans stationed there. This was the first introduction to Americans of what would eventually become known as Taekwon-Do.

1947 was a year of fast promotion. Choi was promoted to captain and then major. In 1948, he was posted to Seoul as the head of logistics and became Taekwon-Do instructor for the American Military Police School there. In late 1948, Choi became a lieutenant colonel. In 1949, Choi was promoted to full colonel and visited the United States for the first time, attending the Fort Riley Ground General School. While there, this art was introduced to the American public. And in 1951, brigadier general. During this time, he organized the Ground General School in Pusan as Assistant Commandant and Chief of the Academic Department. Choi was appointed as Chief of Staff of the First Corps in 1952 and was responsible for briefing General MacArthur during the latter’s visits to Kang Nung. At the time of armistice, Choi was in command of the 5th Infantry Division.

The year 1953 was an eventful one for the General, in both his military career and in the progress of the new martial art. He became the author of the first authoritative book on military intelligence in Korea. He organized and activated the crack 29th Infantry Division at Cheju Island, which eventually became the spearhead of Taekwon-Do in the military and established the Oh Do Kwan (Gym of My Way) where he succeeded not only in training the cadre instructors for the entire military but also developing the Taek Kyon and Karate techniques into a modern system of Taekwon-Do, with the help of Mr. Nam Tae Hi, his right hand man in 1954.

In the latter part of that year, he commanded Chong Do Kwan (Gym of the Blue Wave), the largest civilian gym in Korea; Choi was also promoted to major general.

Technically, 1955 signaled the beginning of Taekwon-Do as a formally recognized art in Korea. During that year, a special board was formed which included leading master instructors, historians, and prominent leaders of society. A number of names for the new martial art were submitted. On the 11th of April, the board summoned by Gen. Choi, decided on the name of Taekwon-Do which had been submitted by him. This single unified name of Taekwon-Do replaced the different and confusing terms; Dang Soo, Gong Soo, Taek Kyon, Kwon Bup, etc.

In 1959, Taekwon-Do spread beyond its national boundaries. The father of Taekwon-Do and nineteen of his top black belt holders toured the Far East. The tour was a major success, astounding all spectators with the excellence of the Taekwon-Do techniques. Many of these black belt holders such as Nam Tae Hi, President of the Asia Taekwon-Do Federation; Colonel Ko Jae Chun, the 5th Chief of Taekwon-Do instructors in Vietnam; Colonel Baek Joon Gi, the 2nd Chief instructor in Vietnam; Brigadier Gen. Woo Jong Lim; Mr. Han Cha Kyo, the Head Instructor in Singapore and Mr. Cha Soo Young, presently an international instructor in Washington D.C. eventually went on to spread the art to the world.

In 1966, the dream of the sickly young student of calligraphy, who rose to Ambassador and the Association President of the most respected martial art in the world came true. On the 22nd of March, the International Taekwon-Do Federation was formed with associations in Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, West Germany, the United States, Turkey, Italy, Arab Republic of Egypt and Korea.

It is hoped that all instructors will follow his example by devoting part of their time towards introducing the art into the school systems in their respective areas.

Merely introducing the art, however, is not enough. The instructor must also concern himself with imbuing and maintaining a positive influence that will eventually serve as a guiding light to all students. Then and only then, can the instructor consider himself an apostle of Taekwon-Do.

Taekwon-Do History

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 General Choi Hong Hi, 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 General Choi's theories, principles and philosophy are considered to be students of genuine Taekwon-Do.

WHEN AND WHERE DID TAEKWON-DO BEGIN?
A combination of circumstances made it possible for Genral Choi to originate and develop Taekwon-Do. In addition to his prior knowledge of Taek Kyon, he had an opportunity to learn Karate in Japan during the unhappy thirty-six years when my native land was occupied by the Japanese. Soon after Korea was liberated in 1945, he was placed in a privileged position as a founding member of the newly formed South Korean Armed Forces.

The former provided him with a definite sense of creation, and the latter gave him the power to disseminate Taekwon-Do throughout the entire armed forces, despite furious opposition.

The emergence of Taekwon-Do as an international martial art in a relatively short period of time was due to a variety of factors. The evils of contemporary society (moral corruption, materialism, selfishness, etc.) had created a spiritual vacuum. Taekwon-Do was able to compensate for the prevailing sense of emptiness, distrust, decadence and lack of confidence.

In addition, these were violent times, when people felt the need for a means of protecting themselves, and the superiority of Taekwon-Do technique came to be widely recognized. General Choi's social stature, the advantage of being Taekwon-Do's founder and his wonderful health also contributed to the rapid growth of Taekwon-Do all over the world.

General Choi had been born frail and weak and was encouraged to learn Taek Kyon at the age of fifteen by his teacher of calligraphy. In 1938, a few days before he was due to leave Korea to study in Japan he was involved in an unexpected incident that would have made it difficult to return home without risk of reprisals.

He resolved to become a black belt holder in Karate while he was in Japan. The skills he required were sufficient protection against those who might seek to do him harm. Not only was he able to return to Korea, but he subsequently initiated the national liberation movement known as the Pyongyang Student Soldier's Incident. Like so many patriots in the long course of human history, his actions aroused the wrath of those in positions of power. He was imprisoned for a time in a Japanese army jail. In January of 1946, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the fledgling Republic of Korea army and posted to the 4th infantry regiment in Kwangju, Cholla Namdo Province as a company commander.

General Choi began to teach Karate to his soldiers as a means of physical and mental training. It was then that he realized that they needed to develop our own national martial art, superior in both spirit and technique to Japanese Karate. With this in mind that he began to develop new techniques systematically. By the end of 1954 he had nearly completed the foundation of a new martial art for Korea, and on April 11, 1955, it was given the name "Taekwon-Do".

On the spiritual level, Taekwon-Do is derived from the traditional, ethical and moral principles of the orient and, of course, from General Choi's personal philosophy. The physical techniques of Taekwon-Do are based on the principles of modern science, in particular, Newtonian physics which teaches us how to generate maximum power. Military tactics of attack and defence have also been incorporated.

Although Karate and Taek Kyon were used as references in the course of study, the fundamental theories and principles of Taekwon-Do are totally different from those of any other martial art in the world.

General Choi formulated the following basic ideals for the Taekwon-Do practitioners:
By developing an upright mind and a strong body, we will acquire the self-confidence to stand on the side of justice at all times;
We shall unite with all men in a common brotherhood, without regard to religion, race, national or ideological boundaries;
We shall dedicate ourselves to building a peaceful human society in which justice, morality, trust and humanism prevail;

The spiritual dimensions of Taekwon-Do can be defined as fusing oneself with the ideals of Taekwon-Do and attaining and understanding the full meaning of each of the Taekwon-Do patterns. If we consider ourselves as one with Taekwon-Do, we will respect it as we respect our own bodies and Taekwon-Do will never be used in a dishonorable way.

The names of the patterns are derived from the most illustrious people to have been produced by nearly five thousand years of Korean history. A proper understanding of the patterns leads, inevitably to the realization that Taekwon-Do is a martial art to be used only for self-defence and only in the cause of justice.

The Last Words of Gen. Choi Hong Hi

I am the man who has the most followers in the world.

I am the happiest man who has done everything to do in my life.

It is fortunate you have come.

Is Mr. Chang Ung here?

Mr. Rhee Ki Ha, it is good that you have come. I am glad that my son and daughters like you most.

You probably might know Mr. Chang Ung well. It is time to introduce Mr. Chang Ung proudly in public.

Please carry on propaganda that Mr. Chang Ung is the tallest and in the highest position in the ITF.

If only I had been as tall as Mr. Chang Ung, I could have had less opponents, however, as my body was so tiny that there were many opponents. Thus, all alone, I could not but fight against them for so long.

But I have never been worn out for the justice was on my side.

I have always worried about a successor to the President, however, my mind is set at ease for there is Mr. Chang Ung.

Mr. Hwang Kwang Sung, your duty is very big and important as a spokesman and the Chairman of the Merger Committee. It was my wish to merge the TaeKwon-Do into one. Please get on your own duty responsibly.

Mr. Park Jong Soo had immigrated into Canada in 1967.

Before that he educated TaeKwon-Do in Europe.

In 1972, I went to Canada where Mr. Park Jong Soo resided leaving my children behind without informing them.

In those days Taekwon-Do was not widely spread, so that I used to say to crave the words of TaeKwon-Do on my coffin.

Now Taekwon-Do has developed on a large scale.

I love Mr. Tom MacCallum.

I have always worried if he might die before me. In case he dies first, I have bee thinking how to help his family.

He has given the special contributions to the ITF.

I have no secrets to him.

Thank you very much for what you have done.

I love you.

Mr. Leong Wei Meng is a man of conscience indeed.

He has given a great contribution to educating the Taekwon-Do.

As I thought his finance is in a good condition, I drew his name out on the stockolders's list of the Chang Hon Foundation.

Mr. Hwang Jin is doing well on the way of Mr. Chon Jin Sik.

So I appointed him as a member of the Consultative Committee.

Please enlarge the Consultative Committee into 9 members. Here I appoint Mr. Jong Jae Hon.

My followers,

Taekwon-Do never exists without the D.P.R. of Korea.

You should know this.

The ITF is an International organization and does it need to argue about ideology?

Does the United Nations belong to the Black people because the Secretary General is Black?.

Please give up this kind of idea.

TaeKwon-Do must be Korean-centred.

Choi Jung Hwa lied me at the airport. I was again deceived. You ought to tell the public throughout the internet that I did not forgive Jung Hwa. I forgave him as a father, but the TaeKwon-Doists would never forgive him.

Before Jung Hwa apologizes TaeKwon-Doists the world over, he will never be forgiven. While I am still alive, you should send the message to the internet the soonest as possible. The TaeKwon-Do will exists forever.

(16.30 ~ 17.10) June 11, 2002
At the Hospital in Pyong Yang,
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea

Theory of Power (Him Ui wolli)

The beginning student may ask; “Where does one obtain the power to create the devastating results attributed to Taekwon-Do?” This power is attributed to the utilization of a person’s full potential through the mathematical application of Taekwon-Do techniques. The average person uses only 10 to 20 percent of his potential. Anyone, regardless of size, age, or sex who can condition himself to use 100 percent of his potential can also perform the same destructive techniques.

Though training will certainly result in a superb level of physical fitnees, it will not necessarilt result in the acquisition of extraordinary stamina or superhuman strength. More important, Taekwon-Do training will result in obtaininga high level of reaction force, concentration, equilibrium, breath control and speed; these are the factors that will result in a high degree of physical power.

01. Reaction Force (Bandong Ryok)
02. Concentration (Jip Joong)
03. Equilibrium (Kyun Hyung)
04. Breath Control (Hohup Jojul)
05. Mass (Zilyang)
06. Speed (Sokdo)
07. Speed and Reflex (Sokdo wa Banung)

REACTION FORCE (Bandong Ryok)

According to Newton’s Law, every force has an equal and opposite force. When an automobile crashes into a wall with the force of 2.000 pounds, the wall will return a force of 2,000 pounds; or forcing the end of seasaw down with a ton of weight will provide an upward force of the same weight; if your opponent is rushing towards you at a high speed, by the slightest blow at his onslaught plus that of your blow.

The two forces combined; his, which is large, and yours, which is small are quite impressive. This, then, is the reaction force from the opponent. Another reaction force is your own. A punch with the right fist is aided by pulling back the left fist to the hip.

CONCENTRATION (Jip Joong)

By applying the impact force onto the smallest target area, it will concentrate the force therefore, increase its effect. For example, the force of water coming out of a water hose is grater if the orifice is smaller. Cnversely, the weight of a man spread out on snow shoes makes hardly any impression on the snow. The blows in Taekwon-Do are often concentrated onto the edge of the open palm or to the crook of the fingers.

It is very important that you should not unleash all your strength at the beginning but gradually, and particularly at the point od contact with your opponent’s body, the force must be so concentrated as to give a knock-out blow. That is to say, the shorter the time for the concentration, the greater will be the power of the blow. The utmost concentration is required in order to mobilize every muscle of the body onto the smallest target area simultaneously.

In conclusion, concentration is done in two ways: One is to concentrate every muscle of the body, particularly the bigger muscles around the hip and abdomen (which theoretically are slower than the smaller muscles of other parts of the body) towards the appropriate tool to be used at the proper time; the second way is to concentrate such mobilized muscles onto the opponent’s vital spot. This is the reason why the hip and abdomen are jerked slightly before the hands and feet in any action, whether it be attack or defence.

EQUILIBRIUM (Kyun Hyung)

Balance is of utmost importance in any type of athletics. In Taekwon-Do, it deserves special consideration. By keeping the body always in equilibrium, that is, well balanced, a blow is more effective and deadly. Conversely, the unbalanced one is easily toppled. The stance should always be stable yet flexible, for both offensive and defensive movements.

Equilibrium is classified into both dynamic and static stability. They are so closely inter-related that the maximum force can only be produced when the static stability is maintained through dynamic stability.

To maintain good equilibrium, the center of gravity of the stance must fall on a straight line midway between both legs when the body weight is distributed equally on both legs, or in the center of the foot if it is necessary to concentrate the bulk of body weight on one foot. The center of gravity can be adjusted according to body weight. Flexibility and knee spring are also important in maintaining balance for both a quick attack and instant recovery. One additional point; the heel of the rear foot should never be off the ground at the point of impact. This is not only necessary for good balance but also to produce maximum power at the point of impact.

BREATH CONTROL (Hohup Jojul)

Controlled breathing not only affects one’s stamina and speed but can also condition a body to receive a blow and augment the power of a blow directed against an opponent. Through practice, beath stopped in the state of exhaling at the critical moment when a blow is landed against a pressure pointon the body can prevent a loss of consciousness stifle pain. A sharp exhaling of breath at the moment of impact and stopping the breath during the execution of a movement tense the abdomen to concentrate maximum effort on the delivery of the motion, while a slow inhaling helps the preparation of the next movement. An important rule to remember: Never inhale while focusing a block or blow against an opponent. Not only will this impede movement but it will also result in a loss of power

Students should also practice disguised breathing to conceal any outward signs of fatigue. An experienced fighter will certainly press an attack when he realizes his opponent is on the point of exhaustion

One breath is required for one movement with exception of a continuous motion.

MASS (Zilyang)

Mathematically, the maximum kinetic energy or force is obtained from maximum body weight and speed and iti is all important that the body weight be increased during the execution of a blow. No doubt the maximum body weight is applied with the motion by turning the hip. The large abdominal muscles are twisted to provide additional body momentum. Thus the hip rotates in the same direction as that of the attacking or blocking tool as in figure F. Another way of increasing body weight is the utilization of a springing action of the knee joint. This is achieved by slightly raising the hip at the beginning of the motion and lowering the hip at the moment of impact to drop the body weight into the motion as in figure G.

In summarizing, it is necessary to point out that the principles of force outlined here hold just as true today in our modern scientific and nuclear age as they did centuries ago.

I am sure that when you go through this art, both in theory and in practice, you will find that the scientific basis of the motions and the real power which comes out a small human body cannot fail to impress you.

SPEED (Sokdo)

Speed is the most essential factor of force or power. Scientifically, force equal mass X acceleration (F=MA) or (P=MV2).

In figure A, a large stone has been gently dropped on a double pane of glass from a height of three inches. On the other hand, in figure B, a small stone has been thrown against the glass with great speed. In figure C, the flat of the hand passed in a slow motion through the flame of the candle with no result to the flame. The candle, however, was put out with a controlled punch or kick stopping within an inch of the flame as shown in figure D and E.

According to the theory of kinetic energy, every object increases its weight as well as speed in a downward movement. This very principle is applied to this particular art of self-defence, as proved in pages 29 and 30. for this reason, at the moment of impact, the position of the hand normally becomes lower than the shoulder and the foot lower than the hip while the body is in the air.

Reaction force, breath control, equilibrium, concentration and relaxation of the muscles cannot be ignored. However, these are the factors that contribute to the speed and all these factors, together with flexible and rhythmic movements, must be well coordinated to produce the maximum power in Taekwon-Do.

SPEED AND REFLEX (Sokdo wa Banung)
It is essential for the students of Taekwon-Do to understand the relation of the speed and the execution time of techniques in order to apply them effectively.

Achieving precise measurements of these factors has been very difficult due to the great speed at which Taekwon-Do techniques are performed. However, in April of 1973, I conducted an experiment to measure the precise speed and execution time of various techniques.

The approach used was multi-flash Strobo photography. Two EG&G control inits-model 553-11 (serial No. 248 and No. 256), and two flashes in reflectors were used to record movements on film. This experiment was conducted at the M.I.T.Strobo lab with special permission from Professors Edgerton and Miller.

Results of the experiment are presented below :
One remarkable fact is that the execution times of the above kicks are shorter than the normal reflex time, which means that it is impossible for anyone to block these kicks unless he can detect them before the leg is lifted off the floor; i.e., know what kick is coming before it is executed.

Normal reflex time is the elapsed time of reflex action. Reflex action consists of behavior in which the reactions usually occur as direct and immediate responses to particular stimuli. Here we are dealing with conditioned reflexes, which can be defined as built-up adjustments to particular external stimuli; i.e., seeing a punch or kick coming and responding by blocking or moving out of the path. Normal reflex time has been experimentally determined to be around 2/10 of a second, at the quickest.

All these techniques cannot be blocked if we wait until an apponent begin to execute them, since the execution times of these techniques are shorter than the time it takes for our reflexes to respond. Therefore, we must be able to detect the on-coming of these techniques before-hand. This is the reason why one must gaze at the opponent’s eyes at all times and not at the legs or arms.

At this point, it would be advantageous to introduce a formula which will enable the student to further understand the significance of speed in the execution of Taekwon-Do techniques.

The formula we can use to calculate the power of any technique is :

P= � MV2
P stands for power.
� is a constant
M stands for mass
V stands for velocity or speed
This equation clearly reveals why developing speed is the most important factor in developing power.

For example, if the mass is increased by a factor of three (with the speed kept constant) then the power is also increased by a factor of three. But if the speed is increased by a factor of three (with mass kept constant) then the power is increased by a factor of nine.

Hence, with this formula we can measure the power of each technique:

Power = (1/2) x (mass) x (velocity)2
= (1/2) x (mass) x (velocity) x (velocity)
And speed (velocity) can be expressed as
V = (distance of last interval) x (1/execution time of last interval)

This experiment has been a simple demonstration of how fast and powerful Taekwon-Do techniques can be practiced properly as taught.

This experiment is contributed by Jae Hun Kim, 3rd degree black belt holder.

Training Secrets of Taekwon-Do

An old proverb says that even heaven cannot make a diligent worker, poor. However, in Taekwon-Do diligence or intensive training alone does not produce quality techniques instructor would be worse than not being taught at all because unscientific movements not only reduce the power but require a tremendous amount of time to correct.

On the other hand, under the proper guidance of a competent instructor, a student who trains earnestly with dedication will learn the true techniques of Taekwon-Do in a comparatively short period of time with less effort.

Student should keep in mind the following secret :
1. To study the theory of power thoroughly
2. To understand the purpose and meaning of each movement clearly.
3. To bring the movement of eyes, hands, feet and breath into a single coordinated acrion.
4. To choose the appropriate attacking tool for each vital shop.
5. To become familiar with the correct angle and distance for attack and defence.
6. Keep both the arms and legs bent slightly while the movement is in motion.
7. All movements must begin with a backward motion with very few exceptions.
8. To create a sine wave during the movement by utilizing the knee spring properly.

The Philosophy of Taekwon-Do (Taekwon-Do Chul hak)

In recent years, there has been an upsurge in violence and a loss of morality in all levels of society, especially among the young. There are, of course a number of reasons for this.

Mamy psychologists today feel that this problem stems from frustration. Analysts, on the other hand, point out that these misguided people are indeed a disillusioned segment of society searching for values and relevance in what they consider deceitful, materialistic, and absurd world of wars and decadence.

Unfortunately, however, instead of constructively channeling their ex-traordinary energy and potential, far too many strike out in blind anger, destroying rather than building, or merely running away from it all by isolating themselves with drugs and their own worlds of fantasy.

Presently, the tendency of “ the stronger preying upon the weaker” appears to be at its peak. Frankly, the present world closely resembles a “corrupt age”.

It is abvious that this phenomenon of society is not merely because of the struggle for survival, but mainly because of an overdeveloped material and scientific civilization. The former misleads the young to the extreme materialism or egoism, while the latter seizes human beings with fear, though playing an essential role in public welfare.

Then what would be the remedy? Needless to say it is the development of moral civilization – the proper mental states of a human being as the lord of creation, enough to prevail or at least keep abreast with the development of material and scientific civilization.

The utmost purpose of Taekwon-Do is to eliminate fighting by discourage-ing the stronger’s oppression of the weaker with a power that must be based on humanity, justice, morality, wisdom and faith, thus helping to build a better and more peaceful world.

All men, regardless of age, have felt that death is a shame and lamented that they cannot live as long as the pine trees or the turtles that seem to live a thousand years. Righteous men, on the other hand, deplore the fact that justice does not always triumph over the tyranny of power. However, there are two ways to deal with these problem: The former, through mental discipline, the latter, through physical training.

It is my sincere hope that through Taekwon-Do, anyome can garner enough strength to become a guardian of justice, to challenge social disunity and, to cultivate the human spirit to the highest level attainable. It is in this spirit, I am dedicating the art of Taekwon-Do to the people of the world.

The philosophy of Taekwon-Do is based on the ethical. moral, and spiritual standards by which men can live together in harmony and its art patterns are inspired by the ideals and exploits of great men from Korean history. Korea’s famous military and civil leaders who in nearly five thousand years of Korean history have never invaded their neighbour yet who fought bravely and made great self-sacrifices to defend their homeland against invading enemies. I also include the names of patriots who willingly gave up their lives to regain Koea’s freedom and independence from the Japanese occupation.

Each Tul (pattern) of Taekwon-Do expresses the thoughts and the actions of these great men, so the students of Taekwon-Do must reflect the true intentions of those whose name Tul bears.

Therefore, under no circumstances should Taekwon-Do be used for selfish, aggressive or violent purposes, either by an individual or group. Nor will Taekwon-Do be used for any commercial or political purpose whatsoever.

I have set forth the following philosophy and guidelines which will be the cornerstone of Taekwon-Do and by which all serious students of this art are encouraged to live.

1. Be willing to go where the going may be tough and do the things that are worth doing even though they are diddicult.
2. Be gentle to the weak and tough to the strong.
3. Be content with what you have in money and position but never in skills.
4. Always finish what you begin, be it large or small.
5. Be a willing teacher to anyone regardless of religion, race or ideology.
6. Never yield to repression or threat in the pursuit of a noble cause.
7. Teach attitude and skill with action rather than words.
8. Always be yourself even though your circumstances may change.
9. Be the eternal teacher who teaches with the body when young, with words when old, and by moral precept even after death.

Student Oath & The Tenets of Taekwon-Do

Student Oath

1. I shall observe the tenets of Taekwon-Do
2. I shall respect the instructor and senio
3. I shall never misuse Taekwon-Do
4. I shall be a champion of freedom and justice
5. I shall build a more peaceful world

The Tenets Of Taekwon-Do (Taekwon-Do Jungshin)

1. Courtesy (Ye Ui)
2. Integrity (Yom Chi)
3. Perseverance (In Nae)
4. Self Control (Guk Gi )
5. Indomitable Spirit (Baekjul Boolgool)