Tracing Back the Roots: Exploring the Rich History of Taekwondo
Taekwondo, one of the most well-known and practiced martial arts worldwide, holds an enriching history that dates back several centuries ago. From its humble roots in Korea under several dynasties' reign to the prestigious Olympic sport it is today, the evolutionary journey of Taekwondo is a fascinating tale of perseverance, transformation, and globalization.
The exact origin of Taekwondo is debated among scholars as some traces it as far back as the Koguryŏ dynasty (37 B.C. – A.D. 668). Others contend its origins started during the Silla Dynasty (668 -935 AD). Despite such differences, most agree that Taekwondo was cultivated from native martial arts combined with influences from neighboring countries such as China.
The oldest form of this martial art came to be known as Subak. Subak was primarily a sport but also served as combat training for Korean warriors. The Hwa Rang warriors, an elitist group of youthful military cadets from the kingdom of Silla, are often linked with the establishment and popularization of this earliest form of Taekwondo.
However, it was during the Koryo period (918–1392) and the subsequent Choson dynasty (1392–1910) that these martial arts were systematized and molded into forms closely resembling contemporary Taekwondo. This period saw the evolution of Subak into Taekkyon, a martial art that gave more focus on high kicks and parrying.
Despite its growth, martial arts, including Taekkyon, faced a severe downturn during the Japanese occupation in Korea (1910-1945). The Japanese rulers prohibited the practice of all Korean martial arts. It was a challenging period that almost led to the extinction of these traditional arts.
However, the end of the Japanese occupation saw a rapid revival and systematic reconstruction of Korean martial arts. Several Kwans (schools) emerged during this period teaching various styles influenced by Japanese karate, Chinese Kung Fu, and indigenous martial arts techniques.
As different schools propagated their unique styles, the need for unifying Korean martial arts under one standard system became increasingly evident. This led to the formation of the Kwan alliance, which later disbanded due to internal conflicts and differing philosophies.
The efforts to unify continued, leading to the establishment of the Korea Taekwondo Association (KTA) in 1961, which chose Taekwondo as the unified Korean martial art.
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Embracing the Practice: The Surprising Health and Mental Benefits of Taekwondo
The Korean martial arts form of Taekwondo is not just about learning self-defense techniques. There are also numerous health and mental benefits that come with practicing this sport. It demands a certain level of physical and mental dedication that can shape not just your body, but also your mind. Mesmerizing in its balance of movement and strength, Taekwondo offers practitioners an opportunity to embrace a healthy lifestyle filled with wellness and mindfulness.
Starting with the physical benefits, Taekwondo training could be an exceptional way to improve one’s overall fitness. The unique combination of aerobic and anaerobic exercises boosts cardiovascular health and promotes weight loss by burning calories more efficiently. The kicks and punches that are practiced regularly work wonders for increasing flexibility, agility, and balance. Eastern martial arts, including Taekwondo, are known for their leg workouts, which can result in stronger, more toned lower body muscles.
The practice does not stop at simply improving one’s physical well-being. It also plays a significant role in strengthening one’s bones and boosting bone density. This valuable benefit is crucial, especially as age advances and osteoporosis becomes a potential threat.
Training in Taekwondo further offers an effective way to relieve stress and anxiety. At its core, Taekwondo is a martial art that focuses on the alignment of body and mind. Kicks, punches, and forms require intense concentration, providing an escape from daily tensions and anxieties. Individuals learn to focus on their movements and coordinate their thoughts and body, thus optimizing their mental health.
While many forms of exercise provide stress relief, the mental benefits of Taekwondo extend much further. It promotes patience and discipline, as mastering the techniques takes time and thorough practice. There is a sense of achievement and self-satisfaction each time a new level is achieved, leading to a boost in self-esteem and confidence. The art's principles also instill in practitioners a sense of respect for oneself and others, fostering peace, harmony and better interpersonal relationships.
One unique mental benefit of practicing Taekwondo is that it can boost memory and cognitive skills. Each movement, each form, each technique has to be remembered precisely. This continual learning and remembering process can improve mental agility, focus, and cognition.
Lastly, Taekwondo is more than just learning the sequences and techniques. It is also about mastering the art of balance, the balance between body, mind, strength, and beauty.
