ITF Taekwon-Do
The Korean Art of Self-Defence
Taekwon-Do 태권도
- the Korean Art of Self-Defence
Taekwon‑Do 태권도, often translated as “the Way of the Foot and Hand,” is a modern Korean martial art that combines powerful kicks, hand techniques and dynamic movements with a strong focus on discipline, respect and self‑control. Developed using scientific principles to maximise speed and power, it offers an effective system of self‑defence while providing a full‑body workout that improves strength, fitness and flexibility.
Created in the 1940s and 50s by General Choi Hong Hi, Taekwon‑Do brings together physical training, mental focus and clear values to help students grow both on and off the mats. Today it is practised worldwide by adults and children looking to build confidence, resilience and a sense of achievement as they progress from beginner to black belt.
History of Taekwon-Do
General Choi Hong Hi, the founder of Taekwon‑Do, was born on 9 November 1918 in Hwa Dae, Korea. From a young age he began his martial arts journey, studying traditional Korean Taekkyon as well as Karate and other disciplines to strengthen his body and develop his skills. These early experiences laid the foundation for what would later become the modern martial art of Taekwon‑Do.
At that time, Korea was under Japanese rule and the practice of Korean martial arts was forbidden, forcing training to take place in secret and under constant pressure. Despite these restrictions, General Choi continued to study and refine his techniques, determined to preserve Korean culture and develop a powerful system of unarmed combat. His passion for martial arts and his desire to help others defend themselves remained central throughout his early life and military career.
Following Korea’s liberation in 1945, General Choi served as a young 2nd Lieutenant in the newly formed Republic of Korea Army, where he began teaching soldiers his own approach to hand‑to‑hand combat. His aim was not just to create effective fighting techniques, but to build a complete martial art that combined physical training, mental discipline and strong moral values. This work led to the formal naming of Taekwon‑Do on 11 April 1955, when a special committee, overseen by President Dr Syngman Rhee, officially recognised this new Korean martial art.
Under General Choi’s guidance, Taekwon‑Do spread rapidly in Korea and around the world, supported by the creation of the International Taekwon‑Do Federation (ITF) in 1966 to oversee standards and promote the art internationally. He emphasised Taekwon‑Do as a way of life, built on virtues such as courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self‑control and indomitable spirit.
Today, ITF Taekwon‑Do is practised by millions of students globally, and General Choi’s legacy lives on every time a new student steps onto the dojang floor to begin their own Taekwon‑Do journey.
Benefits of Taekwon-Do
Get fitter and feel stronger
Regular Taekwon‑Do training improves cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, and balance, making it an effective alternative to the gym. Each session challenges your whole body, helping with weight management, energy levels, and overall health.
Reduce stress and boost confidence
Taekwon‑Do offers a focused outlet to release stress, clear your head, and build genuine self‑confidence as you progress through the belts. Many students find that regular training improves mood, sleep, and resilience in everyday life.
Learn practical self‑defence
Through drills, padwork, and controlled sparring, you develop timing, awareness, and practical self‑defence skills that can help you feel safer and more prepared in real‑world situations.
Why Choose Nuneaton Taekwon‑Do?
There are many reasons why students and their families choose to train at Nuneaton Taekwon-Do:
- Experienced instructors: International‑level instructors with decades of experience, creating a supportive environment where students can progress at their own pace.
- Welcoming atmosphere: Friendly classes where beginners train alongside more experienced students, with no pressure and lots of encouragement.
- Clear progression: A structured belt system that gives you regular milestones, from white belt through to black belt.
- Local and convenient: Classes in Nuneaton with easy access from Bedworth and the surrounding areas, making it simple to fit training around work and family life.
