What does taekwondo mean to you? Especially in this modern age… a form of self-defense and exercise ? Perhaps a sports hobby ? In Singapore, like the proliferation of food diversity from an influx of overseas cuisines.. the martial arts scene is experiencing a likewise effect. In the olden days, when one aspires to train in martial arts, the choices included mainly Taekwondo, Karate or Judo.
Nowadays, you can choose from a wide range to suit your desire…Muay Thai, mixed martial arts (MMA), Krav Maga (Israeli origin), Jeet Kune Do (founded by the late Bruce Lee), Kali Majapahit (Filipino), Capoeira (Brazilian)…..just to name a few.
Indomitable spirit and mental strength in challenging one’s threshold…
So what is taekwondo, in the modern context ? Taekwondo is a martial art originating in Korea. Translated from Korean, Tae means “to strike or break with foot”, kwon means “to strike or break with fist”; and do means “way”, “method”, or “path”. Thus, taekwondo may be loosely translated as “the way of the foot and the hand.” While it’s constantly evolving to change with the time, taekwondo remains true to it’s core tenets. Trainees and practitioners are inculcated to hold fast and practice the five principle.
- Courtesy – be polite to one another and to respect others, especially to seniors and instructors.
- Integrity – should strive to be honest and to live by moral principles.
- Perseverance – implies having patience, to overcome every difficulty by perseverance.
- Self-Control – To have mental fortitude in the sport and personal affairs
- Indomitable Spirit – never give up, not even when faced with insurmountable odds.
Starting young… gains more than just physical advantages.
Being able to accept challenges and withstand the rigours are positive attributes of the sport.
And of fostering camaraderie and team spirit…. 
And of nurturing a sharing attitude, shouldering responsibility that facilitates maturity of character. 
Of great bonding between parents and children who embrace the sport.
Encourages one to break out of comfort zone, to be more confident…. 
To strengthen the mind and push beyond one’s boundaries…
To persevere, stayed focused and enjoy the fruits of achievement….
To sum it up, taekwondo is beyond kicks and punches. It is a way of life and mindset to those who chooses to embrace it positively. It is a constantly evolving martial arts form that embodies and mirror life, that stay relevant in inspite of our ever-changing society.
N.B- All pictures are copyrighted to Yi Dojang Taekwondo Club.