DIPLOMA IN TAEKWONDO
DIPLOMA IN TAEKWONDO
About Course
What Will You Learn?
- Brief Explanation Of Taekwondo
- Taekwondo is a martial art originating from the days of tribal communities on the Korean Peninsula. Taekwondo was developed amongst the tribes as a means of preserving their own life and race as well as building both physical and mental strength.
- Literally translated TaeKwonDo means ‘the way of the fist and foot.’ The most important part of the word is ‘Do’ as this translated means ‘the correct way.’ Learning to kick and punch are only physical attributes. By practicing Do and the principles of Taekwondo, students become overall martial artists both physically and mentally. Hence, TaeKwonDO, Kim Chung DO Kwan, Mu DO, Pal Chung DO, Do has relevance in everything we learn.
- Taekwondo
- if learnt correctly is a very technical martial art which results in students learning how to generate maximum power in relation to their size and build. Although Taekwondo practitioners perform a lot of upper body techniques such as blocking and striking, what differentiates Taekwondo from the rest of the martial arts is its superior kicking techniques. However, depending on age and ability not everyone is expected to have superior kicking skill. Taekwondo is truly for anyone who wants to practice.
- However, all martial arts have near identical foundations and objectives; to strive for better technique and to understand and put into practice breathing control, technique, stances, posture, power, focus, reaction force and etiquette.
- This website is for not only Taekwondo practitioners but for all martial artists to try and gain a little more knowledge and strive for improved technique in their chosen field.
- Taekwondo
- Taekwondo
- There is no such thing as perfect technique in Taekwondo or any martial art. Students regardless of age, ability, and grade should strive for better technique and a martial art mentality. This attitude is what is known as MuDo what literally translates to ‘spirit of the martial art.’
- Every Master, irrespective of type of martial art, has a different method of teaching. By looking at a particular student you can tell which club they belong to because of their technique. In Kim Chung Do Kwan Taekwondo we are honoured to learn from Grand Master Kim Yong Ho, 9th Dan, and President of The World Taekwonmudo Academy (WTA), who has a unique style of teaching taekwondo.
Course Content
Technical Syllabus for White Belts (9th Kup)
Technical Syllabus for White Belts
(9th Kup)
As a beginner it is important you learn the basic movements correctly as this will rapidly improve your technique and movement. When starting the main emphasis is on stepping and trying to gain control of your movements. Although the below exercises may seem simple they are not. All grades irrespective of grade should constantly practice their stepping skills as they are the foundation of your martial art.
KEY TIP: Whenever training the majority of your weight should be kept in the balls of your feet thus increasing your balance. All of the below exercises and beyond should be carried out without the weight rocking back onto your heel.
EXERCISE: Stand shoulder width apart. Look straight forward, keeping your head up. Gently transfer your body weight onto the balls of your feet and rise up onto your toes see how long you can balance. When you have finished try the same exercise but rock back onto your heels. You will then be able to understand the concept of stepping and where to position your weight whilst training.
GENERAL
Attention Position
Correct Bowing Position.
Ready Position/Breathing Control
Forward Stance
Sitting Stance
Stepping foot to foot
Stepping Forward
Turning
Balance Exercises
Formation of feet for front snap kick.
Kicking then regaining balance.
BASIC PUNCHING/BLOCKING
Punching in a sitting stance.
Low section block in a sitting stance.
Inner block in a sitting stance.
Middle section outer block in a sitting stance.
BASICS
Low section block, reverse punch, forward stance.
Middle section outer block, reverse punch forward stance.
Double low section block in forward stance.
BASIC KICKING
High rising kick
Front snap kick
SPARRING TECHNIQUES
Fighting stance with guard and block position.
Stepping whilst in fighting stance.
Technical Syllabus for 8th Kup
Technical Syllabus for 8th Kup
If you’ve been practicing the exercises in the previous syllabus of regaining your balance after simple kicking exercises, you will be ready to go onto the next stage of adding multiple moves. If you cannot kick and come back to a balanced position easily, don’t worry. Practice until you can and then continue with this new technique.
KEY TIP: Whenever you step into a stance while simultaneously executing an upper body technique. Your technique should hit the target at the same time as your foot makes contact with the floor. By doing this action all together the momentum you create by stepping forward increases your overall power. If you step and then make contact the majority of power is therefore lost.
EXERCISE: Execute a front snap kick and retract your leg to a good strong balanced position. Prepare for a punch. Try stepping into a forward stance and executing your punch at the same time. Remember to practice on both sides.
BASIC BLOCKING/PUNCHING
High rising block.
Middle section outer block. (opposite to previous syllabus)
High rising block, punch. Alternate hands.
Double punching.
BASICS
Back stance.
Outer middle section block in a back stance.
High rising block, reverse punch in a forward stance.
BASIC KICKING
Front snap kick, land in a fighting stance.
Turning kick, land in a fighting stance.
Front snap kick, turning kick, land in fighting stance.
ONE-STEP SPARRING
When learning one-step sparring for the first time it is extremely difficult to coordinate until you understand the attacker’s role and the defender’s role. By breaking each task down and understanding what you are doing it will make it easier to learn until you grasp the concept.
Attacking Position
Basic movements of one-step sparring. The attacker steps back with right leg whilst executing a low section block over the knee. When they are called by their partner they must quickly step forward and deliver a high section punch.
Tips to remember:
A common mistake is stepping back so that the heels become in a straight line. This will mean you lose all your balance so will not be able to move quickly into the punch. Ensure you are in a forward stance.
Always make sure your punch has reaction force and is on target (upper lip).
Always ki-hap (shout) to let your partner know you are ready to attack.
Defending Position
The defender’s role is to evade the punches by moving and blocking and then performing a counter attack at the end. The most crucial part about defending is stepping that is why the previous exercises are so important. If you cannot step quickly with balance you will get hit.
Exercise
From your ready position try stepping quickly with balance left foot to right foot. After you are confident add on a block. Then try different stepping techniques and a variety of blocks so you are confident with your blocking technique.
Move your left foot to your right and block high section outer block.
Take it in turns with both legs to step backwards into a back stance to move your head away from the punch. When you are happy you are in a correct back stance and your weight is proportioned properly (70% of your weight pushed backwards over back leg) try adding on a high section outer block. Remembering to block wrist on wrist.
Tips to remember:
Most beginners when concentrating on the block totally forget their stepping and lower body. Practice each sequence one step at the time, then when you are technically correct you can add speed.
Whenever blocking you should always block your partner’s wrist. The higher up the arm you make contact the harder it is to deflect their power.
Always make eye-contact with your partner when executing your techniques to maintain control and balance.
Always ki-hap (shout) on your final counter attack to let your partner know you have finished.
SPARRING TECHNIQUES
Take fighting stance. Concentrating on keeping the weight on the balls of the feet, jump up (not too high) and change your stance as well as your hands. Try to stay on the spot. Keep practicing until you are confident that when you land you have control over your balance and that you would be able to either step quickly or counter-attack in some way.
Try stepping forward and backwards quickly and in a straight line.
Technical Syllabus for 7th Kup
Technical Syllabus for 7th Kup
If you have been practicing the previous two syllabuses you are now ready to advance onto slightly harder techniques such as knife hands, elbow strikes and side kicks.
KEY TIP: It takes a lot of practice to form weapons on your hands and a lot of lower grades struggle with knife hand strikes. Make sure your fingers are squeezed together tightly and your thumb is bent and pulled tightly down the side of your palm hand.
EXERCISE: Try forming your hands quickly from a relaxed position. Repetition is the only way to get results. For this exercise you can practice anywhere!
BASIC BLOCKING/STRIKING
Combination of punches. Middle & high section.
Outer knife hand block in sitting stance. Middle & high section.
Inner knife hand strike in sitting strike.
Middle & high section elbow strike.
BASICS
Transition from back stance to forward stance.
Front kick, double middle section punch, stepping into forward stance.
Outer middle section block in a back stance, reverse punch in a forward stance.
Outer knife hand block in a back stance, reverse high section punch in a forward stance.
High section reverse elbow strike in a forward stance.
BASIC KICKING
Introduction of side kick. Formation of feet.
Side kick, land in a fighting stance.
Front snap kick, side kick, land in a fighting stance.
Slip side kick, land in fighting stance.
ONE-STEP SPARRING
Attacking Position
Basic movements of one-step sparring. The attacker steps back with right leg whilst executing a low section block over the knee. When they are called by their partner they must quickly step forward and deliver a high section punch.
Tips to remember: Only concentrate on yourself and your technique not what your partner is doing otherwise you will find that when you attack your stance will probably be very short and not technically correct.
Defending Position Exercise
As the punch comes forward, take one step to your right and bring your feet together while at the same time blocking with your left hand. From your standing position move your right foot into a sitting stance so that you are parallel with your opponent. As your foot hits the floor execute two middle section punches to the solar plexus and one to the temple.
Practice exactly the same as above but change the last technique to an inner knife hand strike.
Before you ki-hap (shout) take your right foot back in a fighting stance. As the punch comes throw a turning kick off the back leg. Ensure that you recover and finish the technique by landing in a fighting stance.
Tips to remember:
Your stepping is the most important, if you are in a the wrong position with your feet you will be in the wrong position for the counter attack, so take your time and think about the position of your feet. You can then gradually build up your confidence and add your upper body techniques. You are better off learning how to do the technique correctly speed and power is always added later.
SPARRING TECHNIQUES
Take your fighting stance. Jump change, staying on the spot and making sure you are not square. As soon as your feet land quickly change your stance again. This is called a double change. Don’t try and rush it to begin with. The objective is that your feet land in the same place twice. You may want to use markers on the floor to begin with.
Take your fighting stance. Jump change, staying on the spot and making sure you are not square. As soon as your feet land try jump changing 180 degrees backwards and landing in the same position.
Tips to remember:
One disadvantage of spinning techniques is that you have to take your eyes off your opponent for a period of time, however short. The best way to remember is to turn your head first and get your eyes on your opponent as soon as possible. This means that not only will you be able to see what is happening but you will have a lot more balance as your spine is straight.
Technical Syllabus for 6th Kup
Technical Syllabus for 6th Kup
This training aid progresses onto double handed techniques which are difficult to get power into because the practitioner has to focus their energy on two places instead of one. There is also the introduction of spear finger strike which many students find particularly difficult to form their weapon for.
KEY TIP: Remember that to generate maximum power you have to twist your weapon and your reaction force hand at the moment just before impact.
EXERCISE: Prepare for a double middle section knife hand block and stepping forward into a back stance, concentrate twisting both hands at the last second. Correct your technique and arm positions and repeat in a four directional sequence.
BASIC BLOCKING/STRIKING/STANCES
Double knife hand guard and block in a back stance.
Palm heel block in a sitting stance.
Middle section spear finger strike in a sitting stance.
Knife hand side strike in a sitting stance.
Introduction of Tiger stance.
BASICS
Walking Stance
High rising block in a walking stance, reverse punch in a forward stance.
Double knife hand guard and block in a back stance, reverse middle section spear finger strike in a forward stance.
Palm heel block in a forward stance, double middle section punch in a forward stance.
Knife hand side strike in a back stance.
BASIC KICKING
Axe kick.
Axe kick, side kick, land in fighting stance.
Front snap kick off the front leg in tiger stance.
45 degree kick, (bandal chagi) land in fighting stance.
ONE-STEP SPARRING
Attacking Position
Basic movements of one-step sparring. The attacker steps back with right leg whilst executing a low section block over the knee. When they are called by their partner they must quickly step forward and deliver a high section punch.
Tips to remember: Always ensure that you aim your punch for where your partner is stood originally not where they move to.
Defending Position Exercise
Step back with your left leg and execute a right handed inner block. Using the same arm execute a middle section elbow strike while slipping your front foot forward into a sitting stance.
Repeat the above technique however after the elbow strike step away from your opponent with your right foot, going foot to foot, turn backwards and deliver a knife hand side strike in a back stance.
Take your left leg back into a fighting position. Block the punch with an inner crescent kick, after regaining your balance, take a small step forward and throw a turning kick to the temple with your right foot.
Tips to remember:
As a defender you should not look where you are aiming but at your partner’s eyes the whole time. This will ensure you are aware of what is going on and also that you have your balance.
SPARRING TECHNIQUES
From your fighting position throw a bandal chagi, instead of putting your foot back behind you in its original position, literally place your foot next to your standing leg and step back into your fighting stance with the opposite foot. Thus changing kicking legs every time.
Stepping forward try using combinations with your bandal chagi as a starting point. For example add a turning kick on the end. If working with a partner the defender can also practice their stepping and moving backwards out of the way. If attackers kick forward twice, defenders should move backwards quickly twice.
Technical Syllabus for 5th Kup
Technical Syllabus for 5th Kup
As you start to get more confident with your Taekwondo training you can then progress onto double handed techniques. We touched on them in the previous training aid however the ones below are more advanced. Take your time and think about the preparation position.
KEY TIP: If you ever get confused about where your preparation point starts from, simply take your final position and work backwards remembering that everything has to twist.
Many students struggle with the coordination of double movements, this is only natural. If you are getting confused try one hand at a time. It will definitely come. Remember the Taekwondo principle of perseverance!
BASIC DOUBLE BLOCKING & STRIKING
Double Low Section Knife Hand Guard and Block
Double Outer Block & High Rising Block
Double Knife Hand High Rising Block & Inner Knife Hand Strike.
High Section Spear Finger Strike.
BASICS
Tiger Stance.
Double low section knife hand block in a back stance, high section spear finger strike in a forward stance.
Double knife hand outer block & high rising block in a back stance. Inner knife hand strike in a forward stance.
Low section block, reverse punch in a forward stance, front snap kick off the back leg, regain balance and place the foot behind you while executing a double knife hand guard and block in back stance.
BASIC KICKING
Front snap kick, spin side kick, and land in fighting stance.
Bandal chagi, turning kick, and land in fighting stance.
Scissor kick, after land in fighting stance.
Slip front kick.
ONE-STEP SPARRING
Attacking Position
Basic movements of one-step sparring. The attacker steps back with right leg whilst executing a low section block over the knee. When they are called by their partner they must quickly step forward and deliver a high section punch.
Tips to remember: Always remember to aim with your reaction force arm and pull it quickly back to your hip to maximise your accuracy and power.
Defending Position Exercise
Step to your right feet touching, prepare, and while moving into a sitting stance with your right foot, execute a double knife hand block and inner knife hand strike simultaneously. With your blocking arm grab the wrist. Pull back slightly out of your stance and with your right hand execute a high section elbow strike.
Move your left leg 45 degrees towards the outside of your opponent and step into a forward stance. At the same time block the outside of the wrist with a reverse outer knife hand block. Grab the wrist and with your back leg aim for the solar plexus with a bandal chagi. Regain your balance and step forward, turning backwards execute a high section punch with your right hand. You should end up in a forward stance.
From your ready position as the attack comes forward quickly throw a bandal chagi to the kidney with your left leg. Literally stepping foot to foot, put the kicking leg down and immediately execute a high section turning kick with your right foot. Land in fighting stance.
Tips to remember:
If you are not flexible enough to kick high section don’t worry. Everybody’s flexibility improves with practicing your stretching. Until you reach that stage it is fine to kick middle section or even low. The most important thing is pinpointing your technique to the target whenever it may be.
It is a misconception that the higher you kick the better you are at Taekwondo. Even though it looks good, flexibility doesn’t not automatically mean power, it means you are flexible! If you have no focus or power at the end of your technique, however high you can kick, it will just look like dancing not martial art. I would recommend starting low and building up slowly.
It is better to do a technically correct low technique that would be affective than to kick high with no power. Bear in mind as a martial artist you need to be able to choose where you would like to hit which may include low and middle section targets. Being able to kick high is not necessarily superior, it just looks better.
SPARRING TECHNIQUES
This exercise is designed to improve your coordination and to try and get you to keep the weight on the balls of your feet so that you can move quicker by practicing small intricate steps.
Take your fighting stance and throw a back leg bandal chagi, get your balance by bending your knee, place your foot slightly behind you. With your opposite leg (which should be slightly infront) take a small step backwards to level your two feet up. Take a tiny step forward with your original foot and throw a bandal chagi with your back leg.
This sounds very confusing! But watch carefully and as you become better at the exercise increase your speed and decrease the size of your steps so that it is done on the spot.
When you and a partner become competent try practicing together. Remembering to take an opposite fighting stance and keeping you elbows up out of the way so no injuries arise.
Technical Syllabus for 4th Kup
Technical Syllabus for 4th Kup
Probably one of the hardest things to learn in the martial arts is how to judge distance between you and your attacker. Different techniques are designed for different distances. In total there are four main distances to differentiate between: fighting distance; this is basically a safe distance and means that one person cannot hit the other without stepping forward in some way; kicking distance; where either yourself or your partner can easily kick the other off the back leg; punching distance; a closer distance where your kicking would not work as you are too close so you have to rely on punching and striking; close combat distance; close work used for elbow and knee techniques.
Blocking with your feet is quite an advanced technique because to do this you have to be aware of your distance from your partner.
KEY TIP: When blocking with your feet always aim for your partner’s wrist, rather than kicking high up the arm, as it is easier to deflect their power and the arm will move easier.
EXERCISE: Work with a partner. One stand in a punching position in a forward stance and the other take your fighting position. Using an inner crescent kick try blocking your partner’s punch remembering to block on the wrist and to regain your balance by bending your knee after you have finished.
BASIC BLOCKING/PUNCHING
High section X-fist blocking.
Upper elbow strike.
Spear finger strike with block, middle section and high section.
BASICS
High section X-fist block, pull, high section obverse punch in a forward stance.
Guard and block in a back stance, reverse upper elbow strike in a forward stance.
Knife hand guard and block in a back stance, reverse high section spear finger with block in a forward stance.
BASIC KICKING
Explanation of back kick.
Front snap kick, back kick, land in fighting stance.
High section front snap kick, same leg middle section side kick.
ONE-STEP SPARRING
Attacking Position
Basic movements of one-step sparring. The attacker steps back with right leg whilst executing a low section block over the knee. When they are called by their partner they must quickly step forward and deliver a high section punch.
Tips to remember: Totally disregard what counterattack your partner is going to execute. Concentrate on your stance and your technique and deliver a powerful, fast, accurate punch to their upper lip.
Defending Position Exercise
As the punch comes quickly bend the knees and slightly move your head while performing a high section X-fist block. By opening your hands and rotating the attackers arm forward in a circular motion you can position the arm so that a wrist and elbow lock are on. Using your left leg attack the solar plexus with a front snap kick and as you put your foot on the floor deliver a downwards elbow strike to the locked elbow joint thus breaking it.
Step backwards with your left leg into a back stance whilst inner blocking with your right hand. Without transferring any weight pick up your front leg and execute a middle or high section turning kick. Regain your balance and step to the outside of your attacker’s body whilst pushing their arm to the outside, turn backwards foot to foot and step forward executing a high section elbow strike in a forward stance.
Take a small step with your right foot to the right then bring your left foot together. Stepping forward with your left foot execute a middle section elbow strike in a sitting stance. Pull your left leg backwards so again you are foot to foot and turn backwards changing your hands. Attack the solar plexus again with the same technique but with the opposite leg and elbow. Quickly without moving deliver a back fist to the temple.
Tips to remember:
Whenever spinning always get your eyes back on the target as soon as possible, which means quick head movements.
Whenever pivoting with both feet together always move your hips round to make it easier to get to the next position.
SPARRING TECHNIQUES
Slip bandal chagi off the front leg.
Change your fighting stance, back leg bandal chagi.
Change your fighting stance, slip bandal chagi.
Technical Syllabus for 3rd Kup
Technical Syllabus for 3rd Kup
Hopefully by this stage you should be quite confident with performing the basic kicks, whatever height that may be. If you feel ready we are going to move onto double kicking techniques with the same leg without putting your foot down. If you do not have good balance and control you may struggle with these techniques so go right back to basics and concentrate on keeping especially your upper body as straight as possible.
KEY TIP: The main thing to think about when trying these techniques is balance which essentially means keeping your head up, your back straight and your body in a straight line.
EXERCISE: Execute a simple kick and try and come back to your preparation position with your knee up. If you feel in control of that technique immediately add another and again come back to the same position before stepping into your fighting stance.
BASIC BLOCKING/PUNCHING
Back Fist
Twin Fist Attack
Scissor Block
Upset Punch
BASICS
Back fist in a back stance, reverse inner knife hand strike in a forward stance.
Double low section X-fist block in a forward stance, twin fist attack.
Stepping forward in forward stance, double scissor block.
BASIC KICKING
Explanation of Reverse Turning Kick.
Explanation of Hook Kick. Front Kick Hook Kick.
Blocking Technique, Side Kick.
ONE-STEP SPARRING
Attacking Position
Basic movements of one-step sparring. The attacker steps back with right leg whilst executing a low section block over the knee. When they are called by their partner they must quickly step forward and deliver a high section punch.
Tips to remember: Always look straight forward even if your attacker moves or twists your body in some way. If you look towards your partner and they miscalculate you could end up with an injury. For safety always look forwards.
Defending Position Exercise
Moving to your right step foot to foot and execute a knife hand block with your left hand. Grab the wrist and moving your right foot forward, parallel with the attacking punch, sink into a sitting stance while attacking the armpit with a back fist with your free hand. As your hand should already have hold of the wrist pull the arm down and using your right elbow, attack the front of the face.
Instead of taking one step to the right and stepping foot to foot try taking two steps. Move your right foot first a small step and then bring together the left foot. Stepping forward towards your partner with your left leg in a back stance deliver a middle section punch to the solar plexus. With the same arm and without moving deliver a knife hand side strike to the side of the neck. Stepping backwards foot to foot, turn over your opposite shoulder and quickly step forward into a sitting stance executing a middle section elbow strike and finish with a quick back fist.
Block the wrist with an inner crescent kick and without putting your foot on the floor throw a turning kick to the temple (or solar plexus). Place your kicking leg by your standing leg and execute a reverse turning kick with the opposite leg.
Tips to remember:
Remember to always look at your partner’s eyes when performing your techniques; this will help with your balance but also with learning how to judge your distance.
SPARRING TECHNIQUES
Attack slip bandal chagi, quickly put the front foot down and attack back leg bandal chagi.
Attack slip bandal chagi, quickly put the front foot down and attack back leg high section turning kick.
Stepping backwards in your fighting stance, back kick.
Technical Syllabus for 2nd Kup
Technical Syllabus for 2nd Kup
As a progression from the last training aid we are going to move onto two directional kicking techniques defending against multiple attackers. These techniques are particularly difficult to carry out and will take a lot of practice to achieve correctly without losing your balance so don’t worry at all if you cannot do them immediately. All it takes is time and patience and you will definitely get there.
KEY TIP: The key here is to keep your knee raised high after delivering your first kick. If you let your knee drop not only does it affect your balance but it would mean re-lifting the knee to the same position before you execute your second kick thus wasting precious time.
EXERCISE: As a two directional exercise try executing a high section front snap kick and regaining your balance by bending your knee. Immediately after try firing another kick in another direction whether is be a side kick, back kick or other. Make sure after the second kick you come back to a balanced position.
BASIC BLOCKING/PUNCHING
Arc Hand Strike
Ridge Hand Strike
Knife Hand High Rising Block
Knife Hand Low Section Block
Knife Hand Inner Block
BASICS
Low section knife hand block in a forward stance, pull back into back stance obverse high rising knife hand block.
Knife hand inner block in a tiger stance, front snap kick off the front leg, reverse ark hand strike in a forward stance.
Stepping forward in a back stance, knife hand inner block. Quickly step round backwards high section elbow strike in a sitting stance.
BASIC KICKING
Bandal chagi, reverse turning kick.
Front snap kick, hook kick, turning kick.
Step over spin side kick.
ONE-STEP SPARRING
Attacking Position
Basic movements of one-step sparring. The attacker steps back with right leg whilst executing a low section block over the knee. When they are called by their partner they must quickly step forward and deliver a high section punch.
Tip to remember: Always make sure that especially your second step is a correct forward stance. A lot of student are too busy thinking about what their partner is doing and do not concentrate on their own positions and technique.
Defending Position Exercise
Step backwards with your left leg into a back stance whilst knife hand inner blocking with your right hand. Without transferring any weight pick up your front leg and execute a middle or high section turning kick. Placing the foot back down foot to foot turn backwards and stepping into a sitting stance with your left leg deliver a high section elbow strike.
From your fighting stance, block the punch with an inner crescent kick, step foot to foot and deliver a reverse turning kick with the opposite kick ensuring you land in your fighting stance.
Sinking down block the high section punch with a high section X fist block, taking the arm down as close to their body as possible step forward with your left foot so that your back is facing them. Quickly put the back of their elbow on your shoulder and apply an elbow lock. Keeping hold of their arm step backwards quickly with your right foot and finish with a high section punch.
SPARRING TECHNIQUES
Doubling your bandal chagi’s up. Attack back leg bandal chagi and before your foot hits the floor throw your opposite leg bandal chagi.
Slip bandal chagi off the front leg before your foot hits the floor deliver a back leg bandal chagi to the target.
Same as above but make the second kick a high section turning kick.
Technical Syllabus for 1st Kup
Technical Syllabus for 1st Kup
When you get to this level and are preparing for your black belt you essentially know the majority of Taekwondo basic techniques. Being skilled at any martial art is purely down to one thing and that’s practice. It is important that as you near your black belt you are technically confident and understand the theory behind the techniques. Only when you fully understand the principle and technical side can you begin to put the moves you have learnt since white belt into any sort of realistic situation.
KEY TIP: To generate maximum power into your basic techniques you must understand that it has nothing to do with muscle power. It is the combination of breathing control, speed, balance, technique and hip movement to name the majority. The more experience you have the easier it is to put all of these factors together to try and generate maximum power.
EXERCISE: Take a back stance. Try moving into a forward stance while staying as low as possible and quickly and at the last minute turning your back foot from a 90 degree position to a 45 degree angle, thus locking your back hip into position. When you are comfortable with this add a blocking technique and a strike when you transfer your weight. Try and incorporate this into all aspects of your Taekwondo training.
BASIC BLOCKING/PUNCHING
Palm Heel Strike
Inner Wedging Block
Outer Wedging Block
Twin Upset Punch
BASICS
Stepping forward outer wedging block in a forward stance, grab behind the head, bring up your knee. At the same time as you step forward with your attacking leg execute a twin upset punch in a cross stance.
Guard and block in a back stance, reverse palm heel strike in a forward stance.
Downwards palm heel block in a back stance, reverse high section elbow strike in a forward stance.
BASIC KICKING
Step Over Reverse Turning Kick
Bandal Chagi, Jump Reverse Turning Kick
360 Degree Kick
ONE-STEP SPARRING
Attacking Position
Basic movements of one-step sparring. The attacker steps back with right leg whilst executing a low section block over the knee. When they are called by their partner they must quickly step forward and deliver a high section punch.
Defending Position Exercise
Step backwards with your left leg into a back stance whilst knife hand inner blocking with your right hand. Without transferring any weight pick up your front leg and execute a middle section side kick to the ribs. Regain your balance and step to the outside of the body, bring both feet together, turn backwards and carry out a reverse high section ridge hand strike to just behind the earlobe.
From your fighting position block the hand with an inner crescent kick, stepping foot to foot spin on the spot and throw a reverse turning kick. As soon as your foot lands behind you immediately jump and execute a jump reverse turning kick. Try and land in a fighting stance.
Move your left foot to the outside of the attacker’s body 45 degrees into a forward stance and block with a reverse knife hand. Grab the wrist and deliver a bandal chagi into the attacker’s solar plexus. Regain your balance by bending your knee and without dropping your kicking leg place your foot slightly in front and away from your standing leg. Jump and spin 360 degrees (or step to start with) and deliver another bandal chagi with the same leg. Always finish the technique and land in a fighting stance.
Tips to remember:
Always finish off your final technique, whether it is a fighting stance or simply holding the position for a split second longer to indicate you have finished.
SPARRING TECHNIQUES
Bandal chagi, step forward 360 degree bandal chagi.
Step backwards in your fighting stance, reverse turning kick.
Step backwards in your fighting stance, attack back leg bandal chagi.
Step backwards in your fighting stance, double up your bandal chagi’s.
Balance & Co-ordination.
Balance & Co-ordination
Balance & Co-ordination.
Balance is one of the first things you should learn in a martial art. If you can’t stand still on one leg you have no chance of kicking. Balance is simple. Keep your eyes up and your back straight and you won’t go far wrong, even when kicking. These tips and exercises will help you understand more about balance and how to improve.
What exactly is balance?
Balance is a reflex action to prevent falling and injury.
It involves more parts of the body than any other. It uses 3 of the 5 basic senses, the majority of muscles from head to toe, a whole host of nerves and the brain.
Balance is a whole-body reflex which is developed during infancy. It is essentially a hard-wired reflex action.
Example – if you lift one leg off the ground and are pushed from the side, your leg will come down automatically to prevent you from falling. In the 1/2 second that it takes to put your foot down, there is a great concert of actions occurring in your body :
Your muscles receive increased pressure on opposite side of the push
The muscles in the leg attached to the ground tense in response, attempting to maintain a balanced position.
Core muscles tense to attempt to hold the upper body upright
The ears perceive a difference in the body’s orientation to gravity
The brain receives signals from the ear and musculature informing it that balance has been overwhelmed, that a fall is imminent
The brain decodes the signals, determines the direction of travel
A course of action is determined, signals are sent to the raised leg to drop.
The leg responds, lowering towards the ground in roughly a 90 degree angle to the direction of the imminent fall
The muscles of the body brace for impact
The leg contacts the ground, while the muscles act as a shock absorber.
This all happens before your brain consciously registers that you are off-balance – it is for all intensive purposes automatic. Some portions of the reaction even occur without the brain being an active player – the nerves in the muscles have what is known as a feedback loop, reacting to changing pressure and tightening muscles subtly to keep balance without the brain even being aware of it. Standing still with both feet on the ground is a perfect example of this. Dozens of muscles are in constant adjustment for pressure just standing in one place, yet we are not aware of any of them working at all – we are ‘just standing’.
In the above example, we might choose to try and hold our foot up against the instinct to put it down, allowing the body to fall, but then other areas of the balance reflex will take over, such as holding out the hands to grab something or break our fall. In many martial arts, falling becomes an art form, granting the practitioner the ability to fall safely and recovery quickly and even use the act of falling in an advantageous way – so to some extent, the reactions that occur can be controlled.
So in order to improve balance, we need to strengthen the muscles that are involved in balance, improve their sensitivity to pressure differences, and teach the brain to use these muscles in a more efficient manner.
There are two popular theories for how to improve balance – “bottom up” and “top down”.
The bottom up method focuses on the legs and the feedback response, and involves exercises on an unstable surface such as a Bosu ball.
The top down method focuses on the upper body posture, involves balancing on a stable surface while strengthening the primary and secondary muscles used in balance.
For the most martial artists, it is my experience that top-down is the best way to train for balance. Until you develop strength in the correct muscles, you can wobble around on a Bosu ball or balance board all day and it won’t do much to actually improve your balance. However if you focus on strengthening the primary and secondary muscles needed for balance, responding to the fall reflex will be much easier, bringing dramatic improvements in balance.
Another goal of balance training is to teach the brain to reduce it’s reliance on two primary senses – sight and hearing – for balance. If you can train your body and mind to balance without them, you will never be off balance, even if your head is out of position, or your hearing is affected by a strike to the head or sickness, or even if you need to balance in the dark.
If you have bad knees, they will improve their strength and stability as well. So if you experience discomfort in your knees, this is OK and will improve in time. However if you feel a sharp, shooting or burning sensation in your knees, this is a sign of injury which should be seen by a doctor.
Any of these exercises can be performed with one hand against a wall if needed – The point of them is not necessarily to be in balance, but to strengthen the muscles used for balance – so don’t feel that needing top put your hand on the wall will in any way reduce the effectiveness of the exercise. However, do NOT use a hand rail. Using a hand rail will create reliance on the shoulder as a primary balance muscle, which is counter productive.
Exercise 1: Balance awareness With your shoes off, preferably on a hard floor, pick up one leg in front until the thigh is parallel to the floor. Become aware of your leg that is on the ground. Become aware of the feel of your heel, ball of the foot, the outside edge of the foot against the floor. Feel how it flexes back and forth, shifting your body position to keep you upright. This will become more apparent the longer you keep your leg off the ground, as the muscles tire, they will respond slower to the pressure changes and it will become uncomfortable. They will require larger movements to keep you in balance, and may begin to ache.
Now become aware of your calf muscles. Feel how they push and pull to move toes, the ball, the outer edge, working up to the quads (front of the thigh), how they are moderately tight, and if you stay long enough, you will feel them twitch and begin to ache as they keep the correct tension to hold your entire body weight in suspension, keeping the majority of your weight centered in a line that runs from the center of your foot to the middle of your hip.
Those muscles that you feel are your Stabilizers, also called the Primary balance muscles. They are responding to changes in pressure without conscious thought.
Now become aware of the abdominal muscles and back muscles. They are slightly tense as well, keeping your trunk and the greatest majority of your weight centered on your planted leg.
Become aware of your shoulders and arms – they are likely moving slightly in response to moments of loss of balance, reaching out to catch the wall, or circling to attempt to re-center the weight of the torso above the planted leg.
These are all called the posture muscles, also called the Secondary balance muscles. They are responding to conscious and semi-conscious thoughts sent from the brain to maintain balance.
Now put your held leg down, and repeat this exercise on the opposite leg, becoming aware of the primary and secondary balance muscles from the feet all the way to the shoulders and arms.
You may be wondering “Wait a minute, how is this top down training?” If yes then great! You are thinking, which is the entire point of the above exercise. The top down training starts with the brain. Awareness of the key muscles and pressures involved is one of the key mechanisms to top-down training.
Hold each leg for as long as you can until you have to put your foot down, up to 3 minutes (it will get better with practice)
Exercise 2: Slow squats
Start from standing position, feet shoulder width apart, feet pointed outward at a 45 degree angle.
Bend the knees, lowering your body directly above the inward pointed heels of the foot. Keep the body vertical, and keep the back slightly arched.
Move down into a 90 degree bend in the knees, moving down slowly across 5 seconds.
Hold for 3 seconds.
Move up into a straight leg position within a 5 second period.
Repeat for 10 reps
Notes:
Pay attention to your upper body, making sure to keep your shoulders directly above your hips, your hips directly above your heels. This will improve your upper body posture. Remember that if the weight of your body is not centered left to right and front to back on the balance point, balance becomes more difficult. Don’t confuse this concept with “center of gravity”, which is an imaginary point somewhere just above the hips where half your weight is above and half your weight is below vertically, and is “raised or lowered” by the amount the knees and waist are bent. This concept of “center of gravity” is mostly useless for body motion and improving the balance reflex.
Exercise 3: One leg squats
Raise one knee up to hip level in front of your body, thigh parallel to the ground.
Pull your shoulders back, and arch your back.
Bend the planted leg at the knee, lowering the body over the planted heel. (keep shoulders and hips vertically in line). Bend the knee to a 45 degree position in a 2 second movement
Hold for 1 second
Raise body to a straight leg position
Place foot down
Repeat for 10 reps on each leg.
Notes:
As you get more comfortable with this exercise, begin working the knee bend deeper and deeper until you can reach 90 degrees.
Once comfortable bending to 90 degrees, work on slowing the rate of travel into and out of the squat until you can perform 10 reps with 5 second travel.
Once comfortable with 5 second travel, work on extending the hold duration until you can hold for 5 seconds.
Once comfortable, work on same exercise with leg straight leg in front at waist level (extended front kick)
Exercise 4 (advanced): Side kicks
Place your left hand against the wall
Point your left toes to the same wall your hand is using
Align your shoulders and hips to the same direction that your heel is pointing towards (opposite wall)
Pull your shoulders back, arch the back
pull your knee to your chest (Side kick chamber)
While holding your shoulders in line (do not turn them!) – push the heel of the foot out into a side kick slowly (3 seconds)
Hold for 3 seconds at a fully extended position.
Retract the kick to the chamber position slowly.
Set the leg down to the floor.
Repeat for 10 reps each leg Notes:
As you get more comfortable with this exercise, begin skipping putting the leg down between reps, with the goal of repeating all 10 without setting down.
Once comfortable with no step down, begin raising the kick height, with the goal to kick at chest or even head level (this may take a very very long time)
Also work on extending the duration of travel to 5 seconds
Once comfortable, work on extending the hold position to 5 seconds
For a greater challenge, repeat exercise with round kicks after doing the side kicks!
Ideally, these should be performed 3-4 days per week. In the beginning, 3 days per week, then as the body acclimates to them and the muscle soreness goes away (usually about 2 weeks), increase to 4 days/week.
In addition to these top-down exercises, I recommend core strength training, such as situps, crunches, v-ups, flutter kicks, reverse flutter kicks, bicycle kicks (or if you are daring, go to an advanced Pilates class!). The stronger your core, the better your posture, and the better you are able to hold your upper body above your planted foot when kicking.
When kicking, remember to keep your heel on the floor – the more surface area left on the floor, the better your balance will be. If you doubt this, try this exercise:
Stand with feet shoulder width apart
Pick up one leg with knee bent to 90 degrees, thigh parallel to the floor (front kick chamber) – no hand on wall for balance assistance
Start with the whole foot planted solidly on the floor
Slowly rise up onto the ball of the foot and hold
Notice how much less stable it feels on the ball of the foot – if you can balance there at all?
The reason is physics – the ball of the foot has to maintain all the pressure of the weight of the entire body across a smaller surface area and fewer muscles are able to be engaged. In addition, the weight of the upper body must be much more precisely held in position above the center line to account for the reduced surface area contacting the ground.
Basic Taekwondo Stances
Basic Taekwondo Stances
In Taekwondo there are different types of stances depending on if you are attacking or defending. Below are the main stances that are used in basic technique and poomsae.
Study the stances carefully and never be satisfied with your technique. Your stances, whatever your grade, can always be improved.
Remember to keep the weight on the balls of the feet at all times when practicing any stance.
ATTENTION STANCE
Taekwondo Training Attention Position
Taekwondo Training Attention Position
Tips on achieving a technically correct attention stance:
Both feet touching and pointing forward. Make sure there are no gaps in your feet.
Arms smartly hanging straight down with your open hands touching your body.
Back vertical so that your balance is centred and eyes looking directly forward.
JUNBI (READY) STANCE
Taekwondo-Training Junbi Position
Taekwondo-Training Junbi Position
Length: Shoulder width apart.
How to achieve a ready stance:
Feet shoulder width apart and both feet pointing directly forward.
Weight on the balls of the feet so you are instantly ready to move in any direction.
Knees very slightly bent ready to move quickly.
Back vertical so that your balance is centred and eyes looking directly forward.
Tight fists at abdomen level (knot of the belt), approximately one fist distance apart.
FORWARD STANCE
Taekwondo Forward Stance
Taekwondo Forward Stance
Length: 3.5 of your own footsteps forward. (When measuring steps place your heel exactly where the tips of your toes finished.)
Offensive/Defensive: Offensive Stance
Tips on achieving a technically correct forward stance:
Make sure that your heels are shoulder width apart and your hips are square. (This is the commonest mistake.)
Turn your back foot 45 degrees and lock your back leg straight. (Any bend in the back leg and you will lose power on impact.)
Bend the front knee so you can just see the tips of your toes.
Back vertical so that your balance is centred and eyes looking directly forward.
BACK STANCE
Taekwondo Back Stance
Taekwondo Back Stance
Length: 2.5 footsteps forward. (Touch your heels together in an L-shape with your front foot pointing forward, and then count your 2.5 footsteps.)
Offensive/Defensive: Defensive Stance
Tips on achieving a technically correct back stance:
Your heels should be aligned and in an L-shape position.
Your front foot should point directly forward whilst your back foot should be at a precise 90 degree angle.
Your chest should be facing sideways from the target. (Pull your back shoulder round the back.)
70% of your body weight should be distributed over the back leg, leaving 30% over the front. (This means that kicking off the front leg should be easy from this position.)
Make certain that your back knee is pushed directly over your back foot so that no extra pressure is added to the knee joint.
There should be a slight bend in the front knee.
Back vertical so that your balance is centred and eyes looking directly forward.
SITTING STANCE
Taekwondo Sitting Stance
Taekwondo Sitting Stance
Length: Approximately 4 footsteps across.
Offensive/Defensive: Offensive Stance
Tips on achieving a technically correct sitting stance:
Ensure your body weight is distributed evenly over both feet and your balance is central.
Your shoulders should be facing forward, parallel to the target.
Bend your knees and push them OUT so that the weight is directly above your feet.
Make certain that both feet are pointing directly forward and are not sticking out at an angle.
Back vertical so that your balance is centred and eyes looking directly forward.
WALKING STANCE (FRONT STANCE)
Taekwondo Walking Stance
Taekwondo Walking Stance
Length: 1 footstep forward. (The heel of your leading foot should be should be direct line with the toes of your back foot.)
Offensive/Defensive: Offensive Stance
Tips on achieving a technically correct walking/front stance:
Make certain your stance is shoulder width apart.
Toes on both feet should be facing directly forward.
Both knees should be slightly bent.
Weight should be on the balls of the feet with the back heel being raised very slightly to quickly advance or move if need be.
Back vertical so that your balance is centred and eyes looking directly forward.
TIGER STANCE
Taekwondo Tiger Stance
Taekwondo Tiger Stance
Length: 1 footstep forward. (Put one foot directly in front of the other with the heel of your front foot touching the toes of your back foot.)
Offensive/Defensive: Defensive Stance
Tips on achieving a technically correct tiger stance:
Both feet should be in a straight line with one foot directly in front of the other.
90% of your weight is taken by the back leg which should be bent and low as possible to the floor.
The front leg should also be bent with the 10% weight resting lightly on the ball of the foot, making it extremely easy to attack off the front leg.
For extra protection the front knee should be angled across your body to shield the groin.
Back vertical so that your balance is centred and eyes looking directly forward.
SPARRING STANCE
Tips on achieving a technically correct sparring stance:
All weight on balls of the feet.
Feet approximately shoulder width apart and back foot in a direct line behind the front foot.
Weight balanced evenly between back and front leg ready to move in either direction.
Back vertical so that your balance is centred and eyes looking directly forward.
Guarding block in place to protect your front ribs, face and solar plexus.
Open Sparring Stance Where both you and your partner have opposite legs behind you so that your chests are facing the same direction.
Closed Sparring Stance Where you and your partner have the same leg behind you resulting in your chests facing opposite directions.
Benefits of Taekwondo
Benefits of Taekwondo
If practiced correctly with an experienced instructor martial art training can positively impact the rest of your life. There are many benefits of Taekwondo for all ages depending on what you wish to achieve throughout your training. Martial art training is something which should not have an age limit on because everyone regardless of age and ability can get something positive back out of their Taekwondo training if they are taught correctly.
SELF DEFENCE
Learning the ability to defend yourself has a lot to do with self confidence, one compliments the other. Self defence is a natural by-product of any martial art and is one of the main reasons why people continue to train, to ensure that the skills they have learnt are at the forefront of their mind.
SELF CONFIDENCE
A lot of adults as well as juniors have low confidence and self esteem before and after they step foot on the floor to train and this is one of the main reasons for people to join a Taekwondo club. Through your Taekwondo training you should automatically gain more confidence both physically and mentally. Your instructor is instrumental in this, in encouraging you in the right direction and giving you advice as well as positive criticism on your training.
Parts of your Taekwondo training, if you wish to do so, are regular gradings (going for next belts), competitions and educational seminars. However, every single person is an individual and is allowed to go at their own pace when it comes to gradings. If you are in any doubt then go and speak to your instructor. They should know what you are capable of and help you to overcome any anxiety you may have. If you only want to train then that is fine.
DISCIPLINE
Because of the content of Taekwondo training the instructor has to ensure it is taught in a safe environment where no one is going to get hurt. Therefore Taekwondo training should be very strict to ensure students safety. Also because the whole Taekwondo system is built on a ‘respect hierarchy’ students are expected to listen carefully to the instructor and follow instructions. Especially younger students who are renowned for lack of discipline soon learn that if they want to continue training they have to conform to the strict Taekwondo regime.
FITNESS
When starting Taekwondo training no one should worry about their fitness levels. The instructor will recognize that every person has a totally different fitness ability and will discuss it prior to training.
For people who wish to start training to improve their fitness levels Taekwondo exercise works the majority of muscles both upper and lower body and when you reach a higher level requires a certain amount of stamina. Every person as mentioned before is an individual so it is up to yourself how much energy you exert into your training.
FLEXIBILITY
Again when first starting training try not to worry about your lack of flexibility. This is like anything you do and is just practice, irrespective of age. Taekwondo training does require a certain level of flexibility but this will come with time and your instructor will help you and tell you the stretches you should be practicing to improve your flexibility.
taekwondo abdominal exercises
COORDINATION
The majority of people favour one side of their body when it comes to writing, throwing a ball or turning around for example. In Taekwondo students are taught to use both sides of their body exactly the same way which improves balance and coordination. Children who struggle with coordination skills often see massive benefits in this area often within weeks of starting training.
HEALTH PURPOSES
Not only is Taekwondo training excellent for your external muscles but through simple breathing exercises it also strengthens your internal organs
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Dojang Etiquette
Dojang Etiquette
DO NOT DEMAND OR EXPECT RESPECT FROM ANYONE. YOU WILL ALWAYS EARN RESPECT AND ADMIRATION FROM YOUR CORRECT ACTIONS. BLACK BELTS MUST ALWAYS LEAD BY EXAMPLE SO THAT THE LOWER GRADES CAN COPY AND LEARN CORRECTLY.
Dojang etiquette is the basis of any martial art. Without it the whole martial art system which is built on respect would collapse.
Below are the basic rules and acceptable behaviour which apply both inside and outside of the Dojang. These rules are not only for beginners to follow but for every single student of Taekwondo irrespective of grade and position.
If the instructors and higher grades do not observe these rules the white belts will not learn correctly as they copy the actions of the higher grades.
The Dojang is a place where we perfect ourselves both physically and mentally. It should be a served and solemn place.
Taekwondo dojang etiquette
Taekwondo dojang etiquette
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO:
Bow when entering and leaving the Dojang.
Honour and respect your instructor by bowing when seeing them for the first time and when leaving as well as when you require their assistance and help. Not bowing to your instructor is the ultimate sign of disrespect as they are the person where all of your martial art knowledge comes from.
Never be late for training always arrive early and warm up ready for the start of the lesson. If however circumstances arise where the lesson has already started, students must get ready to start training and stand at the back of the Dojang until the instructor’s permission is given to join the class.
Students, irrespective of age, must never leave the Dojang floor without the permission of the instructor.
Never interrupt your instructor and listen carefully to their advice. To show your respect always bow whenever they have helped you individually or as a class.
When going to study with other instructors always ask permission out of courtesy for your instructor.
If there are ever a number of high grades in attendance bow to them in order of highest grade as to not embarrass your instructor. If you are unsure always bow to your instructor first until introductions can be made.
No food, drink or chewing gum is allowed on the Dojang floor.
No jewellery (including earrings, rings and necklaces) is allowed whilst training. In the rare case of a ring that will not come off students need to make sure it is covered with a plaster or similar.
The Taekwondo Dobok must always be clean and worn correctly with your belt. Students must also ensure they have clean hands and feet for training.
Always inform the instructor BEFORE the lesson if you are going to be absent from either a lesson or an event.
Treat your fellow students as brother/sister and respect at all times your instructor and fellow students regardless of age and sex.
Always keep the Dojang clean and tidy; never just leave it to the instructor.
ADVANCED MARTIAL ART ETIQUETTE
For Black Belts especially it is vital that they demonstrate excellent Dojang etiquette both inside and outside of the Dojang. A high level of Dojang etiquette is a sign that an individual or a club are well educated in the traditional martial art ways, especially to outsiders looking in.
Below are some advanced etiquette points which black belts should adhere to at all times.
Honour at all times your instructor. True martial art students can only ever have ONE Instructor this is fundamental to the ethics of traditional martial art. A good Instructor is there to help and guide you, pass on their knowledge and help you progress correctly in the martial art. In return for their instructor’s loyalty students should also be loyal to their club and Instructor as well as themselves. Therefore students need to choose their Instructor carefully as they cannot change clubs unless their Instructor’s permission has been given.
Honour your fellow students and try and help those a lesser grade than yourself.
Always maintain humility, be considerate and kind to those less fortunate.
Always approach learning and training with an empty cup. Never go onto the floor with the attitude that you already know it. There is no such thing as perfect technique it can always be improved and developed in some way.
Lead by example and never demand respect. Respect will come by stepping onto the floor and training regardless of age and position in the club.
Trust your instructor’s judgement as long as you are training.
Remember that instructor’s are human and will make mistakes along the way.
Always be courteous.
View criticism as an opportunity to grow.
Never openly criticise your instructor.
Take pride in your club, your fellow students and yourself.
Two person training is an opportunity to discipline your ego.
Intimidation of others in training is low level.
Perseverance and tenacity is a sign of strength, never give up.
Cleanliness shows you honour yourself by example.
Do not be greedy for information.
After a grading or special occasion remember to thank your Instructor for their teachings.
If you have a misunderstanding with your instructor bring them a gift the next time you see them and apologise in a humble fashion.
Do not expect your instructor to open the gift in front of you.
Always address and introduce your instructor with their title as a sign of respect.
Bowing to your instructor is a sign of respect and gratitude. Remember that in the martial art you are who you are because of your Instructor and their knowledge they have passed to you. You bow to show your gratitude to them for passing on this information.
NEVER debate the cost of instruction and always pay on time to save your Instructor unnecessary embarrassment.
Try not to be late to class or leave early without explanation.
The saying ‘Instructor has no hands, no pockets’ means that when with your instructor they should not move or carry things. When out in public they should not pay for incidentals or meals.
Senor students are responsible for their juniors understanding of these ethics. Black belts have a responsibility to help their Instructor and club pass on this knowledge to lower grades. If a black belt notices a lower grade not observing Dojang etiquette a quiet word is all that is needed.
If it is within your power to save those less fortunate than yourself from abuse of any kind do so.
When studying with other instructor’s your instructor’s permission must be sought first.
Never hand your instructor cash you must pay them honourably. Putting your money in a white envelope is the acceptable way to deal with money.
Never wear another symbol of rank to another school.
Always bow when entering someone else’s school.
If studying with a guest instructor always open doors for them and address them with respect.
When eating with seniors always allow them to start first and take the seat of honour.
If in doubt defer to your instructor, let them guide you.
Don’t be afraid to let your instructor see your inner character, if you follow this code you will earn their respect.
Understand that other martial arts may have additional points of etiquette for you to follow, as long as they generally agree with the above it will honour you to observe them.
Practice that which your instructor shows you.
Be honest and loyal to your instructor, your fellows and your club.
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