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.

  1. Courtesy – be polite to one another and to respect others, especially to seniors and instructors.
  2. Integrity – should strive to be honest and to live by moral principles.
  3. Perseverance – implies having patience, to overcome every difficulty by perseverance.
  4. Self-Control – To have mental fortitude in the sport and personal affairs
  5. 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.

Jensen Chua

An avid photographer who records every moment whether exciting or not. I am married with 2 young children and I work as a real estate agent in Singapore. Come join me on my pixel journey....

Recent Posts

14 Things To Do In Mount Austin In JB – Karaoke, Onsen Spa & Cheap Hotpot

JB-goers take note, here are things you can do in Mount Austin to spice up…

November 22, 2024

16 Things To Do This Weekend In Singapore – 22nd-24th November 2024

Here are all the best things to do this weekend in Singapore.

November 22, 2024

17 Things To Do In Taichung, An Underrated City In Taiwan With Photoworthy & Family-Friendly Spots

Taichung is only an hour by High Speed Rail from Taipei or Taoyuan station.

November 21, 2024

100 Christmas Gift Ideas To Cart Out During The Black Friday Sale 2024, Sorted By Categories

No more stressing over what to get your loved ones for Christmas.

November 21, 2024

11 Best Photo Studios In Singapore For Unique Themed Family Portraits & Couple Shots

Gone are the days when family photoshoots used to be boring and extra formal.

November 21, 2024