Taekwondo ("The Way of the Hand and Foot") is a Korean martial art and sport. Students of TKD learn blocking, striking, and kicking through the memorization and perfection of patterns of movements called forms or poom-se. Forms are used to develop balance, flexibility, and coordination. Forms competition allows students to express the artistic and sport aspects of TKD.
In addition to forms competition, point sparring (aka tournament sparring) is a competitive outlet for TKD students. Similar to a game of tag, TKD students try to outwit their opponents by "scoring" to legal target areas with kicks and strikes without being scored upon. Point sparring involves light to moderate contact.
Students of Taekwondo demonstrate the power of their techniques through breaking. In class, re-breakable, plastic boards are used. Advanced students may compete in breaking competitions involving all sorts of materials such as wood or concrete.
Though limited in its self-defense applications, students of Taekwondo can expect to develop flexibility, balance, and coordination. Also TKD offers many avenues for sport competitions.
