About Taekwondo

Titan Taekwondo from its home at West London Academy.  There are many different aspects to Taekwondo. Some of these are outlined below. What this means is that students can focus on the aspects they are more attracted to. Taekwondo really has something for all.  

The universal benefits of Taekwondo are that it requires intense mental and physical involvement and so requires individuals to immerse themselves into an activity. It also provides positive role models, clear directions and rules, and peer interaction. Students from all ages and backgrounds benefit enormously from the training.

You are never too old to take part in Taekwondo. Students can be from six to sixty six. Every person is treated as an individual. You are not expected to do anything you do not want to do. You are encouraged to attain your own full potential. This often offers a chance for families to train together.

Karoogi (Sparring)

Sometimes known as sparring. This is the side of Taekwondo which currently features in the Olympics. It involves two “Players” in competition trying to score points by kicking and punching each other. There are scoring areas about the body, which when hit gain the player points. These scoring areas are about the body and include the head and face. 

Club sparring differs from competition sparring. Within the club we tone down aggression, and limit the scoring areas. This is to try and avoid unnecessary injuries whilst training. At all times, when sparring, “Players” wear protective equipment consisting of arm and leg guards, a groin guard, head guard, gum shield, and a body protector. Strict discipline is imposed to ensure safety of students. Having said this, Taekwondo is a contact martial art.

Poomse (Patterns)

Poomse or Patterns. These are a sequence of set moves performed by an individual against imaginary opponents. These display Taekwondo technical movements. After the first grading, students are required to learn a new pattern for each subsequent grading. There are Poomse competitions nationally and internationally at which patterns are displayed and judged. It is even possible that this part of Taekwondo could become an Olympic event at some time in the future.

Self defence

This aspect of Taekwondo teaches students how to react to being attacked when away from the Do Jang (training hall). It is the practice of techniques which aim to protect the student if attacked, and to disable any attacker. It also encourages personal awareness, with a view to the student avoiding situations of confrontation.