FREE ESSAY ON TAEKWONDO

TAEKWONDO

Eng. Comp. I
Taekwondo
Taekwondo, usually thought of by most people as just a way of fighting, and as being a
brutal sport. People consider it brutal because of all the kicks, punches, throws, and
arm and wrist locks; they usually aren't open minded enough to see the way it benefits
people especially children. Though a majority of it includes fighting, taekwondo also
helps a person with self-confidence, self-defense and discipline. 
Developing self-confidence is an important aspect of learning taekwondo. Through gaining
self-confidence the student learns to believe in his/her abilities. In believing in
his/her abilities the students performance would be affected in and out of the dojo. As
the student's self-confidence rises, so will his/her attitude. Once the students'
confidence begins to rise their attitude, in general, rather it is at work, school, or at
home usually improves. In time he/she will develop an indomitable spirit. The student
should always be willing to keep trying as he/she progresses through the belt levels. As
the student rises through the belt ranks, the self-confidence he/she develops in the dojo
will benefit him/her throughout their life.
The thought of learning self-defense is usually the main reason for people to join
taekwondo. In addition to learning self-defense, taekwondo is also very demanding
physically. Warms up exercises in taekwondo usually consist of push-ups, sit-ups, squats,
stretches, and crunches. Self-control is mandatory when learning taekwondo. Without
self-control the student can seriously injure other students or his/her-self. 
Along with learning self-control and becoming physically fit, the students also learn
about martial arts weapons. Weapons are usually taught as being an extension of the
student's hands. In becoming physically fit, learning self-control and weapons, the
students are on their way to becoming very well rounded martial artists.
Discipline in taekwondo is shown through the uses of katas, respect, and repeatability.
Forms or kata's are used to advance from one belt level to another. Students must be able
to perform kata's in the correct order, step by step in order to be promoted to the next
belt level. Showing respect in the dojo to the instructor and other students is also part
of the discipline required in taekwondo. Students usually bow as he/she are entering or
leaving the dojo and to each other. Repeatability also plays a big role in discipline.
Students are required to practice the same kick or punch repeatedly while walking in a
straight line. Discipline in taekwondo enables the student to perform satisfactory in
obtaining his/her next belt level.
If more people would approach the study of taekwondo with an open mind, they would
discover the many benefits available other than fighting. Taekwondo can be used as a
stress reliever after a long day at work or school. The self-confidence, self-defense,
and discipline learned through the study of taekwondo are very useful inside and outside
of the dojo.