Glendowie Taekwon-Do is a member of International Taekwon-Do in New Zealand and the International Taekwon-Do Federation worldwide.

What is International Taekwon-Do

The encyclopaedia of Taekwon-Do, written by the founder, General Choi Hong Hi, states:

"... 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.

"It is a martial art that has no equal in either power or technique. 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 quote highlights two important features of International Taekwon-Do. First, how it differs from other martial arts, and secondly, the importance of moral development in International Taekwon-Do.

It is its scientific foundation that separates International Taekwon-Do from other martial arts. Its techniques are founded in an understanding of human anatomy and Newtonian physics. Power is generated by relaxing muscles during movements to maximise acceleration, and tensed suddenly at the conclusion of movements to maximise the concentration of force.

It's not about fighting

General Choi emphasised the importance of mental conditioning, and he defined a moral code for Taekwon-Do students with the Tenets of Taekwon-Do and the Student Oath.

The Tenets of Taekwon-Do

Courtesy
Integrity
Perseverance
Self control
Indomitable Spirit

The Student Oath

I shall observe the tenets of Taekwon-Do
I shall respect the instructor and seniors
I shall never misuse Taekwon-Do
I shall be a champion of freedom and justic
I shall build a more peaceful world

Our former Head Instructor, Master Banicevich, was fortunate enough to train with General Choi a number of times between 1991 and when the General passed away in 2002. He was an inspirational and charismatic man, and a very scientific teacher. His legacy, International Taekwon-Do, offers tremendous benefits of physical, mental and moral development.

Why not come along this week and try it out!