Content uploaded by D. Parajuli
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by D. Parajuli on Apr 07, 2024
Content may be subject to copyright.
Content uploaded by D. Parajuli
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by D. Parajuli on Mar 04, 2022
Content may be subject to copyright.
Content uploaded by D. Parajuli
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by D. Parajuli on Mar 04, 2022
Content may be subject to copyright.
THE FUNDAMENTALS OF
TAEKWONDO
A manual with underlying Physics principles
D. Parajuli (PhD)
3rd Dan- Shito-Ryu Karate
Martial Art - Sports Expert,
National Sports Council, Nepal
(Revised Edition)
2022
i
Preface
The Martial Arts are both ancient and contemporary. There are different views on why the
techniques that are taught work: body alignment combined with the manipulation of one's internal
energy (Ki, Chi, or Qi), or more scientific approaches such as body mechanics combined with
biophysics and basic physical laws.
The Martial Arts possess both ancient origins and modern relevance. Diverse perspectives exist
regarding the efficacy of taught techniques: some attribute their success to body alignment and the
manipulation of internal energy (known as Ki, Chi, or Qi), while others favor scientific
explanations rooted in body mechanics, biophysics, and fundamental physical principles.
Originating in India-Nepal alongside Buddhism, martial arts spread across Asia, including China,
Korea, Okinawa, and eventually mainland Japan. Initially practiced clandestinely by Buddhist
monks, martial arts have now become ingrained in the daily lives of nearly a billion people
worldwide.
Despite their mystical aura, the effectiveness of martial arts can be logically tied to fundamental
physics principles such as Newton's three laws of motion. Various styles prioritize different
techniques: Karate emphasizes direct, forceful strikes and blocks, Jujitsu focuses on destabilizing
opponents' balance, Aikido employs circular motions and redirection of adversaries' energy, while
Taekwondo emphasizes swift kicks and rapid back fist strikes.
Though styles differ, they share a common historical lineage, with elements of each visible in the
others. Many techniques across styles are based on geometric shapes like right angles, triangles,
and circles, while others draw inspiration from animal behavior, as seen in Shaolin Kung fu's
animal forms, such as the tiger, dragon, preying mantis, and phoenix styles.
This manual comprehensively covers the essential principles of Taekwondo necessary for
achieving a black belt. It outlines basic techniques and the progression through each belt level—
White, Yellow, Green, Blue, Red, and Black—while also detailing rules for sparring and poomse.
Notably, the book delves into the physics behind certain kicks, providing valuable insights for
practitioners at every level, up to black belt proficiency.
I hope, it will help as a capsule for every level of takwondo upto black belt.
- D. Parajuli
ii
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 0
2. A Brief History ....................................................................................................................... 1
3. Do Jang Protocol ..................................................................................................................... 2
3.1 Bowing ............................................................................................................................. 2
3.2 Handshaking ..................................................................................................................... 3
3.3 Uniform- Dobok and Personal Appearance ..................................................................... 3
4. Belt Ranking System............................................................................................................... 5
4.1 Geup (or Gup, or Kup) grade in Taekwondo ................................................................... 5
4.2 Meaning of colors............................................................................................................. 6
4.2.1 White Belt or 9th Geup ............................................................................................. 8
4.2.2 Yellow Belt (Low and High) or 8th and 7th Geups ................................................ 10
4.2.3 Green Belt (Low and High) or 7th and 6th Geups .................................................. 11
4.2.4 Basic Techniques to be learned ............................................................................... 11
4.2.5 Blue Belt (Low and High) or 5th and 4th Geups ...................................................... 12
4.2.6 Red Belt (Low and High) or 3rd and 2nd Geups .................................................... 12
4.2.7 Black Belt or 1st Geup ............................................................................................. 13
5. Testing and Belt Promotion .................................................................................................. 15
6. Taekwondo Basics ................................................................................................................ 16
6.1 Seogi (Stances) I............................................................................................................. 19
6.1.1 Charyot seogi (attention stance).............................................................................. 19
6.1.2 Neolpyo seogi (Open stances) ................................................................................ 20
6.2 Seogi (Stances) II ........................................................................................................... 29
6.3 Jumeok (fist) ................................................................................................................... 35
6.3.1 Deungjumeok (fist back fist) .................................................................................. 37
6.3.2 Mejumeok (hammer fist) ........................................................................................ 38
6.3.3 Pyunjumeok (flat fist) ............................................................................................. 38
6.3.4 Sosumjumeok (knuckle protruding fist) ................................................................. 39
6.3.5 Jipkejumeok (pincers fist) ....................................................................................... 40
iii
6.3.6 Son (Open hand) ..................................................................................................... 40
6.3.7 Sonnaldeung (hand-blade back) .............................................................................. 41
6.3.8 Sondeung (hand-back) ............................................................................................ 41
6.3.9 Pyonsonkkeut (flat hand tips) ................................................................................. 42
6.3.10 Kawisonkkeut (scissor’s finger-tips) ...................................................................... 43
6.3.11 Hansonkkeut (single finger-tip) .............................................................................. 43
6.3.12 Moundusonkkeut (combined two finger-tips) ........................................................ 44
6.3.13 Mounsesonkkeut (conbined three finger-tip) .......................................................... 44
6.3.14 Modumsonkkeut (all combined finger-tips) ........................................................... 45
6.3.15 Komson (bear hand) ................................................................................................ 45
6.3.16 Batangson (palm hand) ........................................................................................... 45
6.3.17 Kuppinsonmok (bow wrist) .................................................................................... 46
6.3.18 Agwison (arc hand) ................................................................................................. 46
6.3.19 Palmok (forearm, especially the wrist part) ............................................................ 47
6.3.20 Palkup (elbow) ........................................................................................................ 48
7. Bal (foot) ............................................................................................................................... 48
7.1 Apchuk (fore sole) .......................................................................................................... 49
7.2 Dwichuk (back sole)....................................................................................................... 49
7.3 Balkkeut (tiptoes) ........................................................................................................... 49
7.4 Balnal (foot blade) .......................................................................................................... 50
7.5 Balnaldeung (back of the foot blade) ............................................................................. 50
7.6 Dwikkumchi (heel) ......................................................................................................... 51
7.7 Balbadak (sole) ............................................................................................................... 51
7.8 Baldeung (top of the foot) .............................................................................................. 51
7.9 Jeonggangyi (shin) ......................................................................................................... 52
7.10 Mureup (knee) ............................................................................................................ 52
8. Makki (defense blocking) ..................................................................................................... 53
8.1 Teuksu Makki (Special blocking) .................................................................................. 68
8.2 Jabki (grasping) .............................................................................................................. 72
iv
9. Attack Techniques ................................................................................................................ 72
9.1.1 Jireugi (punching) ................................................................................................... 72
9.1.2 Poom (jireugi technique)......................................................................................... 74
9.1.3 Teuksu Jireugi ......................................................................................................... 77
10. Chigi (hitting)..................................................................................................................... 80
10.1 Applied Part + Target + Type of Chigi = Name of Poom .......................................... 80
10.2 Teuksu Chigi............................................................................................................... 88
11. Tzireugi (thrusting) ............................................................................................................ 90
11.1 Terms of Tzireugi ....................................................................................................... 90
11.2 Teuksu Tzireugi .......................................................................................................... 92
12. Chagi .................................................................................................................................. 92
12.1 Composite Techniques of Chagi ............................................................................... 101
12.1.1 Teuksu Chagi ........................................................................................................ 105
13. Kkukki (inflecting)........................................................................................................... 105
13.1.1 Special Poom ........................................................................................................ 106
14. Neumgigi (throwing down).............................................................................................. 107
14.1 Neomgigi: Throwing down or tripping up ............................................................... 108
14.1.1 Georeo-neomgigi: Tripping-up Technique or Sweeping Technique .................... 108
14.1.2 Deureo-neomgigi: Throwing-down Technique .................................................... 108
14.2 Types of Throws ....................................................................................................... 108
14.2.1 Shoulder Throw .................................................................................................... 109
14.2.2 Leg throws, reaps, and trips .................................................................................. 109
14.2.3 Hip Throws ........................................................................................................... 112
14.2.4 Sacrifice Throws ................................................................................................... 112
14.2.5 Pick-ups................................................................................................................. 113
15. Sparring-Gyoroogi ........................................................................................................... 114
15.1 Basic Sparring Rules ................................................................................................ 115
15.2 Olympic and WTF Taekwondo Rules ...................................................................... 116
15.2.1 Basics .................................................................................................................... 119
v
15.2.2 Penalties ................................................................................................................ 119
16. Sparring Gear ................................................................................................................... 120
17. One Step Sparring ............................................................................................................ 121
17.1 Getting Ready ........................................................................................................... 121
17.2 One Step Sparring #1 ................................................................................................ 122
17.3 One Step Sparring #2 ................................................................................................ 123
17.4 One Step Sparring #3 ................................................................................................ 124
17.5 One Step Sparring #4 ................................................................................................ 125
17.6 One Step Sparring #5 ................................................................................................ 126
17.7 One Step Sparring #6 ................................................................................................ 127
17.8 One Step Sparring #7 ................................................................................................ 128
17.9 One Step Sparring #8 ................................................................................................ 130
17.10 One Step Sparring #9 ................................................................................................ 131
17.11 One Step Sparring #10 .............................................................................................. 132
18. Poomse ............................................................................................................................. 133
19. Striking and Breaking ...................................................................................................... 134
20. The Science behind a Taekwondo ................................................................................... 136
20.1 The Physics behind a Break ...................................................................................... 136
20.1.1 Key physics principles at play in Taekwondo ...................................................... 139
21. Effect on Arts Performance by Sine Wave and other components .................................. 140
21.1 Sine wave .................................................................................................................. 140
21.2 Breath control ........................................................................................................... 141
21.3 Balance ..................................................................................................................... 141
21.4 Speed ........................................................................................................................ 141
21.5 Reaction force ........................................................................................................... 141
21.6 Energy Transfer ........................................................................................................ 141
22. Taekwondo Terminology ................................................................................................. 142
23. References: ....................................................................................................................... 147
0
1. Introduction
Taekwondo, often abbreviated as TKD, is a martial art that extends beyond mere physical combat
techniques. Founded with a profound ethos by General Choi Hong Hi, its ultimate aim is to
discourage oppression by the stronger over the weaker through the cultivation of qualities such as
humanity, justice, morality, wisdom, and faith. Taekwondo serves as a discipline not only for
refining physical prowess but also for enriching the spirit and overall quality of life through the
rigorous training of both body and mind. Over time, it has evolved into a globally recognized sport
of significant stature, earning a place among the official competitions featured in the Olympic
Games [1].
Let's delve into the meaning of the word Taekwondo. Comprising three distinct parts, though
presented as a single word in Korean, "Tae" denotes "foot," "leg," or "to step on"; "Kwon" signifies
"fist" or "fight"; and "Do" conveys the concept of "way" or "discipline." When these components
are amalgamated, two significant concepts emerge behind "Taekwondo."
Firstly, Taekwondo represents the correct utilization of both fists and feet, or essentially all parts
of the body symbolized by fists and feet. Secondly, it serves as a method to manage or pacify
conflicts, thereby promoting peace. This notion originates from the interpretation of "Tae Kwon"
as "to control fists" (or "to step on fists"). Therefore, Taekwondo embodies the idea of "the proper
utilization of all bodily parts to prevent conflicts and contribute to the establishment of a better
and more harmonious world."
Within Taekwondo, there exist various techniques, including both open and closed hand strikes
and blocks, linear and circular movements, as well as hard and soft techniques, along with holds
and grappling techniques. Notably, Taekwondo is renowned for its exceptional kicking style,
featuring stationary, spinning, jumping, and flying kicks executed from diverse angles and at
various velocities. Many other martial arts have adopted and incorporated the Korean kicking style
into their own practices, attesting to its widespread influence.
Taekwondo encompasses a wide array of offerings suitable for individuals of all ages and interests.
From forms or Poomses, which are choreographed patterns, to self-defense techniques, grappling,
holds, hand techniques, breaks, and notably, impressive kicking techniques, Taekwondo caters to
a diverse range of needs and preferences.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
1
It appeals to the young and not-so-young alike, catering to the interests of competitors, fitness
enthusiasts, individuals seeking self-defense skills, parents desiring a structured and disciplined
environment for their children, and particularly families in search of an engaging group activity to
participate in together. In essence, Taekwondo provides something valuable for everyone, making
it a versatile and inclusive martial art.
2. A brief history
Taekwondo stands out as one of the most structured and scientifically oriented Korean traditional
martial arts. Its origins can be traced back to the tribal and royal court fighting systems of the early
600 AD era. Among its predecessors were martial arts such as Soo Bahk, Tae Kyun, and Kwon
Bup, which laid the groundwork for the development of Taekwondo.
The modern era of Taekwondo began to take shape in the late 1940s following Korea's liberation
from Japanese occupation. During the occupation, numerous martial arts Masters had either exiled
themselves from Korea or operated clandestinely. With the liberation, these Masters resumed
openly teaching their arts. Many of them had sought refuge in China or Japan during the occupation
and had incorporated martial arts techniques from these countries into their systems. This infusion
of diverse influences from China and Japan contributed to the development of a distinct flavor and
style within Korean martial arts.
The early training halls in Taekwondo were known as Kwans, and during the late 1940s and early
1950s, five major Kwans emerged: Moo Duk Kwan, Jidokwan, Chung Do Kwan, Chang Moo
Kwan, and Song Moo Kwan. Additionally, there were several minor Kwans, including Moo Sul
Kwan, Yun Moo Kwan, Kang Duk Won, Han Moo Kwan, Oh Do Kwan (Korean Army), and Mun
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
2
Moo Kwan (Korean Air Force). While these Kwans practiced similar martial arts, they exhibited
philosophical and technical differences.
In 1955, many of the Kwan leaders, known as Kwan jang or directors, convened under the
guidance of General Choi Hong Hi and unified under the name Taekwondo. They established the
Korean Taekwondo Association and later the International Taekwondo Federation.
The term "Do Jang" in Taekwondo simply refers to the place of training. "Do" signifies "way" or
"path," and "Jang" means "place." Thus, together they represent the "place where one practices the
way," specifically in the context of Taekwondo, the way of the hand and foot.
3. Do Jang Protocol
Etiquette, defined as a code of behavior outlining social expectations within a society, social class,
or group, is integral to martial arts training regardless of style. It encompasses a set of rules or
guidelines for behavior in various situations and places, akin to "manners." Martial arts etiquette
serves as a prescribed set of standards governing a person's conduct and attitude toward themselves
and others. In the Do Jang, etiquette ensures a positive and safe environment, complementing the
physical aspects of Taekwondo training.
Etiquette is a crucial aspect of Martial Arts training across various styles such as Taekwondo,
Karate, Chinese Kung Fu, Aikido, Judo, and more. It encompasses specific standards for behavior
and demeanor towards oneself and others within the training environment. Observing etiquette in
the Do Jang (training hall) fosters a positive and safe atmosphere essential for complementing the
physical aspects of Taekwondo practice.
3.1 Bowing
Bowing holds significant importance in martial arts, symbolizing respect and humility. Martial
artists traditionally bow towards the flags upon entering and leaving the training area, as well as
before and after practicing with a partner. In many ways, the act of bowing in Asian culture
parallels the Western custom of shaking hands.
To execute a bow properly:
1. Stand with your feet together and your hands at the sides of your legs.
2. Bend over at the waist at approximately 30-45 degrees while maintaining a straight back.
3. In Korean tradition, it is customary not to make eye contact with the person being bowed
to, as this may be perceived as a sign of distrust.
4. If you hold a lower belt rank, it is customary to wait for the senior belt to straighten up
before doing so yourself.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
3
3.2 Handshaking
In Korean tradition, the bow serves as the customary greeting, often complemented by a
handshake. When bowing and shaking hands simultaneously, it is customary to support your right
forearm with the back of your left hand under your elbow as a sign of respect. Additionally, junior
students should always wait for the senior to extend their hand first as a gesture of deference.
3.3 Uniform- Dobok and Personal Appearance
The traditional uniform worn in Taekwondo is called a Dobok, and it holds significant importance
in the Taekwondo experience. It serves as a representation not only of the martial art itself but also
of one's school, teacher, rank, and the rich history and tradition associated with Taekwondo. The
term "Do" means "way," while "Bok" translates to "clothing" in Korean. A traditional Taekwondo
uniform typically features a white color, symbolizing purity and dedication to the art. However, in
some schools, Black Belts and Poom Belts may have a black stripe around the V-neck of the shirt
to denote their rank.
A Dobok consists of three primary components:
1. Pants, known as "Ha’i."
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
4
2. V-neck shirt or pullover, referred to as "Shyeochu."
3. Belt, called "Dhee."
Wearing your Dobok should be done with a sense of pride and honor, reflecting your commitment
to Taekwondo and its values.
It's essential to maintain the cleanliness and tidiness of your Taekwondo uniform. Avoid leaving
it unattended or lying around. When not in use, the uniform should be neatly folded and stored
away properly. This ensures that your uniform remains in good condition and reflects respect for
the art and its traditions.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
5
4. Belt Ranking System
The color of a Taekwondo student's belt serves as an indicator of their skill level. While belts can
sometimes be earned through competition victories, the most common method is by successfully
completing an examination. Each belt color represents a specific rank, skill level, and to some
extent, the duration of training. Similar to being classified as a freshman, sophomore, junior, or
senior, the belt color reflects the student's current stage of development. The belt system is
designed to divide the overarching goal of achieving a Black Belt into smaller, more manageable
short-term objectives, allowing students to track their progress effectively. At Blue Dragon
Taekwondo, we adhere to the guidelines set by the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF). Our belt
ranking system includes both lower and higher ranks for each color belt, except for white, in the
following sequence:
4.1 Geup (or Gup, or Kup) grade in Taekwondo
It refers to the colored belts worn by students. Those wearing belts like white, yellow, green, blue,
or red are considered Geup grade students. For instance, a Taekwondo student with a white belt is
known as a 9th Geup student, while someone one grade away from a black belt is referred to as a
1st Geup.
When a student wears a Taekwondo black belt, they are recognized as a Dan grade. In certain
schools, if the student is under 16 years old, they may be referred to as a Poome grade.
Within the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), there are 9 Geups, starting from the 9th Geup
(white belt) and progressing to the 1st Geup (red-black belt). The term "Geup" signifies "degree,"
while "Dan" translates to "phase." There are 9 Dan degrees, all represented by a black belt.
There are also two additional "levels" of Yellow through Red Belt: low-ranking and high-ranking.
Typically, there are two-month intervals between testings, with students attending classes 2-3 days
per week to facilitate smooth progress.
On average, it takes about 90-120 hours of in-class training over 15-18 months under the
supervision of a Certified Instructor to achieve the rank of Red Belt. At this stage, self-defense
White
Yellow
Green
Blue
Red
Black
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
6
skills should become automatic and instinctive. Subsequently, it may take 9-14 months or longer
to earn the rank of Black Belt.
In many school, there are no "junior" black belts. Once a student successfully completes the Black
Belt testing requirements, they are recognized as a Black Belt regardless of age.
Different organizations and schools may utilize varying belt colors, with some using more or fewer
colors. However, there is no significant significance to this practice.
Interestingly, originally, there was only one color of belt. In the early days of the art, students
would receive a white belt and never wash it. Over years of training, the belt would accumulate
dirt, grime, and blood, gradually darkening until it became a black belt.
Most people believe black belt is the pinnacle or the end . Not True! There are actually 10 levels
or degrees of black belt, and so much more learning to do. No living person reaches beyond 9th
degree. The 10th degree is a posthumous award, or an award that is given after the recipient’s death.
4.2 Meaning of colors
Everyone starts out as a Taekwondo white belt. Even your instructor was a white belt once! We
don’t usually have to do a test to get a white belt. It is part of your first Taekwondo uniform or
Dobok.
To see specific information about each belt, click on the belt image.
White – The color white in Taekwondo symbolizes innocence, representing a birth or beginning. It
signifies the initial stage where the seed of learning is planted. A student wearing a white belt is
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
7
considered a beginner, embarking on a journey to acquire knowledge and understanding of the
Art.
Yellow – The yellow belt in Taekwondo also symbolizes the first beam of sunlight shining upon
the seed, infusing it with newfound strength and marking the beginning of a new life. This imagery
mirrors the evolutionary journey of Taekwondo, where students advance from the innocence of
the white belt to the burgeoning growth represented by the yellow belt, signifying progress and
development within the martial art.
Green – The green belt in Taekwondo signifies the continuous growth of knowledge and skill as
practitioners advance in their training. Similar to the development of a growing plant, the green
belt represents the maturation of Taekwondo skills. This stage marks a significant progression as
students further cultivate their abilities and deepen their understanding of the martial art.
Blue – The blue belt in Taekwondo symbolizes the heavenly sky towards which the plant grows
and matures into a tree. This imagery represents the continuous progression of Taekwondo, akin
to the growth of a tree reaching towards the sky. As students advance to the blue belt level, they
continue to evolve and develop their skills, moving closer to achieving their goals within the
martial art.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
8
Red – The red belt in Taekwondo symbolizes danger, serving as a warning to both the practitioner
and their opponent. It signifies the importance of control that students must develop, reminding
them to exercise caution and restraint in their techniques. This belt color serves as a signal for
opponents to maintain a safe distance, highlighting the need for disciplined and controlled
movements in martial arts practice.
Black – The black belt in Taekwondo represents the culmination of the journey, where all the
previous belt colors merge into one. It symbolizes proficiency and maturity in Taekwondo
knowledge and skill, reflecting the wearer's comprehensive understanding and mastery of the
martial art. Additionally, the black belt signifies the wearer's imperviousness to darkness and fear,
demonstrating courage, resilience, and inner strength cultivated through years of dedicated practice
and discipline.
4.2.1 White Belt or 9th Geup
“Every Journey Begins With a Single Step”
"The white belt marks the beginning of your Taekwondo journey, and in many ways, it's the most
crucial step you'll take on your path. The color white, or the "lack of color," symbolizes purity,
indicating that you are "innocent" and have no prior knowledge of Taekwondo.
By recognizing the need for guidance, showing your willingness to learn, and demonstrating your
commitment by enrolling in a Taekwondo school, you've already earned the white belt. While
some may view the white belt with less importance compared to the colored belts, the truth is that
without white belt students, Taekwondo, or any martial art, would cease to exist. As time passes,
there would be fewer active black belts, and eventually, when the last one passes on, the art would
vanish.
Therefore, white belt students are the most crucial part of Taekwondo, and they are the reason for
the art's existence. Wear your white belt with pride, determination, and congratulations on taking
the first and most important step of your journey!
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
9
4.2.1.1 Requirements
1. Enrolling on a Taekwondo school
2. Uniform or Dobok
3. Willingness to learn
4. Understanding of the basic Taekwondo techniques
4.2.1.2 Basic Techniques to be learned
Time/Class Requirement:
Minimum of 15 Classes
Stances or Seogi
Attention (Charyot)
Ready Stance (Joonbe Seogi)
Horseback Stance (Joochoom Seogi)
Front Stance (Ap Koobi)
Fighting Stance (Ut Seogi, Gyoorugi Junbi)
Walking Stance (Ap Seogi)
Blocks or Makki
Down Block (Are Makki)
Middle Block (Momtong Makki)
Overhead Block (Eulgool Makki)
Outside Block (Packan Makki or Bakkat Makki)
Inside Block (An Makki)
Strikes or Chigi
Middle Punch (Momtong Jireuki)
Kicks or Chagi
High stretch front leg kick (Ap Ollyo Chagi)
Half Moon Kick (Bandal Chagi)
Front Kick (Ap Chagi)
Roundhose Kick (Ap Dollyo Chagi)
Side Kick (Yop Chagi)
Breaking Technique
Spining kick (1 board)
Sparring or Gyoroogi
Non-contact sparring only, closely supervised by a certified Black Belt
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
10
Form or Poomse
Taegeuk Il Jang
4.2.2 Yellow Belt (Low and High) or 8th and 7th Geups
Yellow – Represents the first beam of sunlight which shines upon the seed giving it new strength
with the beginning of new life. This symbolizes the evolutionary path of Taekwondo.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "All great masters are chiefly distinguished by the power of
adding a second, a third, and perhaps a fourth step in a continuous line. Many a person have taken
the first step. With every additional step, you enhance immensely the value of your first... That
which we persist in doing becomes easier for us to do; not that the nature of the thing itself is
changed, but that our power to do is increased."
4.2.2.1 Basic Techniques to be learned
In addition to the previous belt requirements, the student must learn and complete the following:
Low Yellow
Time/Class Requirement:
Minimum of 25 classes
Stances or Seogi
Back Stance: Dwi Kubi
Kicks or Chagi
Front kick-side kick combination
Sparring
Demonstrate basic understanding of sparring
Breaking Technique
Jumping back side kick (1 board)
Form or Poomse
Taegeuk Ee Jang
High Yellow
Time/Class Requirement:
Minimum of 25 classes
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
11
Kicks or Chagi
Side Kick turn around Side Kick Combination
Breaking Technique
Flying Side Kick (1 board)
4.2.3 Green Belt (Low and High) or 7th and 6th Geups
Green – Represents the continuous growth of knowledge and skill as the Taekwondo skills
begins to develop, just like a growing plant.
4.2.4 Basic Techniques to be learned
In addition to the previous belt requirements, the student must learn and complete the following:
Low Green
Time/Class Requirement:
Minimum of 25 classes
Stances
Front stance double basics
Basic stances terminology
Breaking Technique
360 Back Side Kick (1 board)
Form or Poomse
Taegeuk Sam Jang
High Green
Time/Class Requirement:
Minimum of 25 classes
Basics
All basics and Kicking Combinations, Basic Terminology (Kicks)
Poomse
Taegeuk Sa Jang
Breaking Technique
360 Back Side Kick – POWER ( 2 boards for children, 3 boards for adults)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
12
4.2.5 Blue Belt (Low and High) or 5th and 4th Geups
Blue – Represents the heavenly sky towards which the plant grows and matures into a tree. This
signifies the continuous progression of Taekwondo.
4.2.5.1 Basic Techniques to be learned
In addition to the previous belt requirements, the student must learn and complete the following:
Low Blue
Time/Class Requirement:
Minimum of 25 classes
Basics
All basics and Kicking Combinations, Basic Terminology (Kicks)
Breaking Technique
Jumping front kick (height)
Form or Poomse
Taegeuk Oh Jang
High Blue
Time/Class Requirement:
Minimum of 25 classes
Basics
All basics and Kicking Combinations, Basic Terminology (Kicks, stances and basic hand
motions).
Breaking Technique
Jumping front kick power (2 boards children, 3 boards adults).
Form or Poomse
Taegeuk Yook Jang
4.2.6 Red Belt (Low and High) or 3rd and 2nd Geups
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
13
Represents Danger, it signifies the use of control the student must develop, warning the opponent
to keep their distance.
4.2.6.1 Basic Techniques to be learned
In addition to the previous belt requirements, the student must learn and complete the following:
Low Red
Time/Class Requirement:
Minimum of 25 classes
Basics
All basics and Kicking Combinations, Basic Terminology
Breaking Technique
Jumping Technique of your choice (Power- 3 boards)
Form or Poomse
Taegeuk Chil Jang
High Red
Time/Class Requirement:
Minimum of 25 classes
Basics
ALL BASICS and Kicking Combinations, ALL Basic Terminology, Counting to 100 in
Korean, ALL MEANINGS
Form or Poomse
Taegeuk Pal Jang
Breaking Technique
Any jumping technique, excluding flying sidekick (3 boards).
Other
Competition: participation in 1 tournament (at least 1 event at any level)
4.2.7 Black Belt or 1st Geup
Black – Black is the opposite of white, where all the previous belt colors merge into one. A black
belt signifies proficiency and maturity in Taekwonfo knowledge and skill; it also represents the
wearer’s imperviousness to darkness and fear.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
14
4.2.7.1 Basic Techniques to be learned
In addition to the previous belt requirements, the student must learn and complete the following:
Black 1st Dan/Poom
Basics
ALL BASICS and Kicking Combinations, ALL Basic Terminology, Counting to 100 in
Korean, ALL MEANINGS
Poomse
Taegeuks 1-8
Koryo
Breaking:
Any Jumping technique excluding flying side kick (3 boards)
Competition: participation in 1 tournament (at least 1 event at any level)
Time/Class Requirement: Pass 3 elimination phases
Black 1st Dan/Poom → Black 2nd Dan/Poom
Number of Eliminations: Must pass 6 elimination phases; must include, but not
limited to:
Breaking: includes speed breaking, power breaking, timed breaking
Poomses: 8 Pal Gwe Forms, Koryo, Keumgang
Knowledge: Know Standards for all basics
Breaking: Concrete Breaking
Time/Class Requirement: 2 years from graduating to 1st Dan/Poom
Community Service: Demonstrate commitment to Young TKD: assist in teaching classes,
assist with work around the school, one-on-ones, volunteering at school events: 10 hours
Black 2st Dan/Poom → Black 3nd Dan/Poom
Number of Eliminations: Must pass 10 elimination phases; must include, but not
limited to:
Breaking: includes speed breaking, power breaking, timed breaking
Poomses: 8 Pal Gwe Forms, Koryo, Keumgang, TaeBeck
Knowledge: Know Standards for all basics and all poomses, self-defense/step
sparring
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
15
Breaking: Concrete Breaking
Time/Class Requirement: 3 years from graduating to 2nd Dan/Poom
Community Service: 20 hours
Black 3st Dan/Poom → Black 4nd Dan
Number of Eliminations: Must pass 14 elimination phases; must include, but not
limited to:
Breaking: includes speed breaking, power breaking, timed breaking
Poomses: 8 Pal Gwe Forms, Koryo, Keumgang, TaeBeck
Knowledge: Know Standards for all basics and all poomses, self-defense/step
sparring
Breaking: Concrete Breaking
Age Minimum: 18 years old
Demonstration of Instruction, 10-page Thesis, 20 hours of community service, 15 hours of
instruction, the discretion of Master Instructors
Time/Class Requirement: 4 years from graduating to 3rd Dan/Poom"
5. Testing and Belt Promotion
Grading in martial arts involves a physical examination that students undergo to progress to their
next belt or grade level. Typically, each grading session begins with a warm-up followed by drills
focusing on basic punching and kicking techniques. As the grading progresses, students are
required to perform specific patterns or forms corresponding to their grade level. Higher grades
entail demonstrating a greater number of patterns.
Additionally, the grading includes free-style sparring and set 'one-step' sparring exercises. These
activities enable students to showcase a range of techniques executed with precision and control.
Higher-level gradings often involve breaking wooden boards to exhibit the accuracy and power of
their techniques.
To advance to the next belt or grade, students must demonstrate competency during the grading
session, usually in front of a panel of judges or an instructor. While grading formats may vary
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
16
between clubs, they generally include the display of patterns, board-breaking, self-defense
techniques, and controlled sparring. There may also be theoretical aspects, such as questions on
history and techniques, to assess the student's understanding of the art. At higher dan (black belt)
tests, students may be required to take a written exam in addition to the practical grading..
6. Taekwondo Basics
Taekwondo basics encompass the fundamental elements necessary for the practice and mastery of
the martial art. These basics serve as the foundation upon which advanced techniques and skills
are built. They include various components such as stances, strikes, blocks, punches, prearranged
motions, body targets, and state of mind. In every Taekwondo class, practitioners diligently
practice these basics, reinforcing mental and muscle memory. While exercises like horse riding
stance, single punch, double punch, front kick, and half-moon kick may seem repetitive or
mundane, mastering these basics is essential for reacting to situations with the appropriate
technique instinctively and effectively. Establishing a long-range goal is an integral part of
Taekwondo basics. Setting a clear goal provides direction and purpose to one's training. To achieve
this goal, whether it's mastering a specific technique or advancing through belt ranks, consistent
practice and refinement of the basics are crucial.
Immediate Targets
A key aspect of Taekwondo basics is understanding immediate targets, which are vital parts of the
body sensitive to pain due to exposed nerves. These targets include approximately 280 vital points
divided into three main areas: the head, trunk, and lower body. Notable vital points include the
philtrum in the head, the solar plexus in the trunk, and the center of the abdomen in the lower body.
During Taekwondo training, practitioners visualize an imaginary opponent of similar stature to
practice delivering attacks and defending against strikes aimed at these vital points. This practice
enhances precision and effectiveness in executing techniques during both offensive and defensive
maneuvers.
Vital Points (Keupsoh)
Vital points are specific areas of the body that, when targeted with the appropriate force, angle,
and accuracy, can result in various effects ranging from pain and discomfort to severe
consequences such as paralysis, unconsciousness, or even death. It's important to note that this
information is intended solely for educational purposes within the context of understanding the
body and Taekwondo training. Any practical application or experimentation should be conducted
under the supervision of a qualified instructor due to the potential risks involved.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
17
Regions of Vital Points (Keupsoh)
1. Head Front
2. Body Front
3. Body Back
Representation of impact points level
1. Moderate pain
2. Sharp pain
3. Severe pain
4. Unconsciousness or temporary paralysis
5. Fatal
Please be aware that the human body contains approximately 280 vital points, and this list
represents only a small selection. Each vital point requires careful study and practice within the
context of responsible martial arts training.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
18
Table: List of attack level, attack area and impact numner
S. N.
Description
Result of light impact
Result of full-power attack
1.
Top of head
2
4
2.
Forehead
2
4
3.
Temple
3
5
4.
Cheekbone
2
4
5.
Neck artery
3
5
6.
Cervical trachea
3
5
7.
Glabella
2
4
8.
Intraocular pressure
2
4
9.
Eyeball
2/3
4/5
10.
Philtrum
1/2
3/4
11.
Jaw
2
4
12.
Chin
2
4
13.
Adam’s apple
3
5
14.
Back of the neck
3
5
15.
(several parts of) backbone
3
5
16.
Outside of upper arm
1
4
17.
Outer-wrist
1
3
18.
Hip nerve
2
4
19.
Achilles heel
2
4
20.
Kidneys
2
4
21.
Elbow (just below)
1
3
22.
Coccyx
2
4/5
23.
Pit of thumb and first-finger
2
4
24.
Knee pit
1
3
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
19
6.1 Seogi (Stances) I
"The term "seogi," or stance, refers to the posture in which any part of the body, except the two
feet, remains in contact with the ground or floor, utilizing the lower body. While the upper body,
including the arms, can move freely, the trunk should always remain upright. Seogi techniques
greatly influence the movement of the center of gravity and weight distribution, with various
techniques available based on the positions and movements of the legs.
Different seogi techniques serve different purposes. Some postures provide a sturdy defense due
to their stable nature, while others enable swift movement of the center of gravity, facilitating
quick actions. Seogi types are classified based on the position of the feet, either widened apart side
by side or positioned fore and back, as well as the degree of knee flexion.
Maintaining balance is heavily influenced by the width between the feet, which varies among
individuals. A balanced stance may not be uniform for everyone due to differences in foot size and
structure. Typically, the unit of a stride or step is used to measure the distance between the feet in
a fore and back stance. Alternatively, the unit of sole length, such as one foot or two feet, can also
be used for measurement. The direction of the eyes or body serves as the baseline for determining
angles.
Stances in Taekwondo are divided into three main categories: Neolpyo seogi (open stances), Moa
seogi (close stances), and Teuksu Poom seogi (special poom stances). Each category serves distinct
purposes and is utilized in various situations during training and combat.
6.1.1 Charyot seogi (attention stance)
This stance is known as the attention position and is commonly used before and after Taekwondo
classes. It serves as the first stance learned in Taekwondo training. Traditionally, the feet are
positioned at a 45-degree angle in this stance. However, recent changes implemented by Kukkiwon
now require the feet to be touching and pointing forward, especially in World Taekwondo
Federation (WTF) recognized sporting events. Failure to adhere to this requirement may result in
point deductions during competitions.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
20
6.1.2 Neolpyo seogi (Open stances)
Naranhi seogi (parallel stance)
1. Pose:
1. The breadth of two feet will be one foot wide, the inner sides (balnaldeung)of both
feet paralleling with each other,
2. Both knees are stretched, and
3. Both legs will support your weight evenly, the center of balance coming between the
legs.
2. Usage: This is a fundamental pattern of seogi to be used in the standstill posture or as a “junbi
seogi” (ready stance).
Oreum seogi (right-hand stance)
1. Pose: First, take the same pose as the naranhiseogi, and then move only the foresole of the right
foot 90 degrees rightwards, pivoting on the heel.
2. Usage: This is used in mejumeok naeryochigi (hammer fist pounding hit) and deungjumeok
bakkatchigi (hand back fist outward hit) techniques.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
21
Wen seogi (left hand stance)
1. Pose: First, take the same pose as the naranhiseogi, and then move only the fore sole of right
foot 90 degrees rightwards, pivoting on the heel.
2. Usage: This is used in mejumeok naeryochigi (hammer fist pounding hit) and deungjumeok
bakkatchigi (hand back fist outward hit) techniques.
Junbi seogi (ready stance)
The upper body, waist, and knees are straight. Shoulders are relaxed, the chin is pulled in, eyes
looking forward, and the feet are spread one shoulder width apart with the toes pointing straight
forward. This stance is the starting point for all movements.
Pyonhi seagi (at ease stance)
1. Pose:
1. Keep the breadth of two heels at one foot length, each fore sole opened outward by
60 degrees.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
22
2. The knees straightened, and
3. Make the two legs support the body weight evenly, slightly leaning on the back sole
side.
2. Usage: This stance is generally used for a ready stance.
Antzong seagi (inward stance)
1. Pose:
1. Keep the breadth of two legs at two foot length,
2. The two soles paralleling with each other,
3. Lower the knees as high as they may spring up and down easily, and keep the shin
from the foot to the knee erect vertically
4. Concentrating the weight inwardly and tightening the lower abdomen.
2. Usage: This stance is more stable so that it can be used for various defensive and offensive
techniques.
Mo seogi (oblique angle stance)
1. Pose: In a naranhiseogi (parallel stance), just put one foot (left or right) straight forward at a
distance of one step.
The body weight should be supported by both legs evenly, the center or balance coming in between
the legs.
When the left foot is put forward, it is called a wen moseogi (left side moseogi), and the opposite
way an oreun moseogi (righr side moseogi). When an oblique angle stance (moseogi) should return
to a parallel stance (naranhi seogi), you have just to command “put your forward left (or right) foot
back to a naranhiseogi!”
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
23
Joochoom Seogi (horse riding stance)
The feet are one and shoulder width apart. Both knees are bent and perpendicular to the ankle. Push
the chest slightly forward. Have both fists at waist level with wrists facing upward. The point of
balance is between the feet.
Nachuwo seogi (lowered riding stance)
1. Pose: Proceed with the same way as the juchumseogi except that the legs should be open wider,
keeping the body lower.
2. Usage: The low center of weight makes the body the most balanced, but with less impulsive
force; it needs more strength in making every action: therefore, this is generally used for
developing the power.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
24
Mo Jochum seogi (oblique angle riding stance)
1. Pose: In a juchumseogi, the right or left foot only will be put straight forward at a distance of
one step.
2. Usage: This is used in offense and defense, moving aside during the opponent’s attacks.
Antzong Juchum seogi (inward riding stance)
1. Pose: Also in a riding stance (juchum seogi), only the fore soles of both feet will look inward
pulling the back soles outward.
2. Usage: The same as juchum seogi’s usage, using the strengthening the power of the lower
muscle.
Ap seogi (forward stance)
1. Pose:
1. Just like the stance when one stops walking with a forward step. the distance of the two
feet is one step long,
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
25
2. The inner sides of two feet must be on a straight line,
3. The two knees should be kept straightened, the weight being supported by both legs evenly.
It is permitted to keep the hind foot slightly turned from the straight line within the
angle of 30 degrees in order to allow a natural pose.
2. Usage: Generally for the offensive purpose, but sometimes for the defensive purpose, too.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
26
Ap Juchum seogi (forward riding stance)
1. Pose: The same as the apseogi except that the knees are lowered like the juchumseogi. In taking
this pose, the back sole of the fore foot is likely to be pushed outward, but the angle of
turning should be kept within 30 degrees. The weight should be supported by both feet,
raising the back soles slightly so that impulsive force can be exerted.
2. Usage: This is used in the posture of aiming at the target during a kyorugi and can make very
impulsive motions.
Apkubi (forward inflection stance)
1. Pose:
1. The vertical distance between two feet is one and a half step. And the parallel
distance between two feet’s tiptoes is one foot.
2. The tiptoes of front foot place forward.
3. Tower the knee in order to match your knee and tiptoes when you look down in an
upright standing position.
4. Keep the back sole turned inward within the angle of 30 degrees and stretch the knee
of hind leg and put the balance of your weight forward by two-thirds.
5. Stand upright and twist forward your body at an angle of 30 degrees.
2. Usage: This stance makes it easy to push forward, thereby enabling one to perform attack
techniques.
Dwitkubi (backward inflection stance)
1. Pose: In the case of right hand dwitkubi (a stance in Taekwondo):
1. Begin by transitioning from the moa seogi (close stance). Open the fore sole or right foot
at a 90-degree angle, pivoting on the back sole.
2. Next, move the left foot forward one step from the heel of the right foot. This step creates
a 90-degree angle, and the body is lowered by bending both knees.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
27
3. The right foot's knee should be bent at an angle of 60 to 70 degrees between the ground
and the shin, while the left foot's knee should be bent at an angle of 100 to 110 degrees
between the ground and the shin. Both knees should be inwardly bent similar to the ap
juchumseogi (forward riding stance).
4. Distribute two-thirds of the center of weight and balance onto the right foot.
Usage: With the weight shifted backward, this stance facilitates easy backward movement, making
it suitable for defensive techniques.
• As described in the mo seogi stance, stances are typically classified as oreun seogi (right-hand
stance) or wen seogi (left-hand stance) based on the position of the forward leg. However, this
stance is classified based on the position of the backward leg. Therefore, there can be oreun
dwitkubi (right-hand backward inflection stance) and wen dwitkubi (left-hand backward inflection
stance).
Ohja seogi (inverted “T” shape stance)
1. Pose: The stance closely resembles the dwitkubi, with the only difference being that the forward
foot aligns perpendicular to the back foot. This positioning causes the extended line of
the forward foot's sole to intersect with the center of the back foot's balnaldeung, creating
an inverted "T" shape with the two soles. This configuration positions the forward leg
inwardly, allowing for effective defense of one's groin against opponent attacks, as well
as facilitating the execution of momdollyo chagi techniques
2. Usage: This is a defensive posture as well as a surprise attack stance.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
28
Beom seogi (tiger stance)
1. Pose: In the case of the oreun (right-hand) beom seogi stance:
1. Begin from the position of moaseogi, then move the left foot one foot forward.
Simultaneously, pivot the right (hind) foot by opening the fore sole 30 degrees while
keeping the back sole as the base.
2. Shift the entire weight onto the right (hind) foot positioned behind. When looking down,
ensure that the knee and tiptoes align.
3. The left foot in front should keep the ankle stretched, allowing only the tiptoes or the fore
sole to lightly touch the ground. The knee of the left foot should bend as necessary.
4. Focus the force on the lower abdomen, with 100% of the weight supported by the right
(hind) foot.
2. Usage: This stance is mainly used in offense, applying counter-kicks with the front foot, as it is
not supporting the weight, and at times returning counterattack, or blocking the
opponent’s attack of the shin to counterattack with hands.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
29
6.2 Seogi (Stances) II
Moa seogi (close stance)
1. Pose: Stand upright with both inner feet blades attached and stretch both knees.
2. Usage: It is used in charyotseogi, kkyopson-junbiseogi, bojumeok-junbiseogi, dujumeok-heori.
Dwichuk moaseogi (attention stance)
1. Pose: From a moaseogi, the back soles are left attached to each other but the only fore soles are
opened at an angle of 60 degrees.
2. Usage: It is used in applicable action of seogi.
Apchuk moaseogi (reverse attention stance)
1. Pose: From a moaseogi, the first toes of feet are left attached, opening the back soles apart from
each other at an angle of 60 degrees. This is the reverse stance of the dwichuk-moaseogi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
30
2. Usage: Both apchuk moaseogi and dwichuk moaseogi are used to ready stances in a state of
halt.
Kyotdari seogi (assisting stance)
1. Pose:
The front foot, specifically at its foot blade back (balnaldeung), is touched by the first
toe of the assisting foot, while the back sole of the assisting foot is lifted up, leaving
only the fore sole touching the ground.
The body is lowered by bending the knees, similar to the juchum seogi stance.
The weight is supported solely by the front foot, with the assisting foot serving only to
help maintain balance.
2. Usage: This stance is used to make one thrust forward like an onrush.
Apkkoa seogi (forward cross stance)
1. Pose: In the case of a right-hand apkkoa seogi:
1. A right-hand forward cross stance occurs as a momentary action when you shift
your right foot leftwards from either a riding stance or a lowered riding stance.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
31
2. Draw your right foot across the back of the left foot, placing its foresole by the
smallest toe of the left foot. This movement should be executed with the knees kept
bent down, causing the shins of both feet to form an "x" shape as they cross.
3. Keep the two feet as close together as possible.
4. When pausing in a right-hand cross stance for a certain action, ensure that the entire
sole of the right foot touches the ground, supporting your weight. The left foot
should touch the ground only at its foresole. At this moment, the shin and calf must
firmly stick to each other while keeping the knees apart.
2. Usage: This stance is mainly used move side-wards.
Dwikkoa seogi (backward cross stance)
1. Pose: The right foot thrusts forward, pounding the ground, while simultaneously the left foot
follows, placing its toes near the right foot blade to brake the movement. During this
action, the right calf will press against the left shin, forming an "x" shape, and both knees
are bent down.
2. Usage: With this stance, you can pound on your opponent’s foot back, approaching nearer for a
second attack.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
32
Hakdari seogi (crane stance)
1. Pose: Begin by bending and lowering your right knee, resembling the posture of a riding stance.
Then, lift your left foot so that the back of the foot blade is positioned near the inner side
of the right knee. In this stance, the lifted left knee should be tightened to protrude
forward. It's important to ensure that the left knee doesn't open outward, as this will make
maintaining balance challenging and hinder the effectiveness of subsequent attack
motions.
2. Usage: This stance help exercise the maintenance of balance and arouses confusion in the
opponent because of your readiness to deliver kicks at any moment.
Ogeum seogi (reverse crane stance)
1. Pose: The same as the crane stance except that the foot back of lifted up foot placed on the
hollow of the other leg’s knee.
2. Usage: Unlike the crane stance, where balance relies heavily on the lifted leg, this stance
employs the supporting foot to brake one's forward thrust, while the lifted foot, positioned
with its back against the hollow of the knee, aids in maintaining balance. This provides
the practitioner with the ability to execute various kick techniques, including front or
sidekicks, with greater versatility.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
33
Teuksu Poom seogi (special poom stance)
While the previous seogis focused on maintaining balance using various forms with two legs, the
special poom stances are characterized by the comprehensive motion of arms, legs, and the trunk,
resulting in harmonized stances. The term "poom" refers to a pose arising from the motion of
applying a taekwondo technique.
Dujumeokheori Jumbi seogi (fist on waist ready stance)
1. Pose:
1. Kept the feet as in the “close stance.”
2. Place the fist on the side of waist, each hand back facing the ground, and
3. Other things, such as the body, eyes conditions of mind and respiration control, are
like the basic ready stance.
2. Usage: A stance of readiness to begin movements.
3. Words of command: “Dujumeokheori junbi!” stressing the last word, “junbi!”
Kyopson Junbi seogi (overlapped hands ready stance)
1. Pose: Maintain the positioning of the two feet as in the close stance, with the body posture
resembling the attention stance. Then, overlap the stretched right hand with the equally
stretched left hand, crossing each other. Ensure that the fingers are stretched and closed
together, with a slight gap between the two hands, approximately the thickness of a piece
of paper. Additionally, maintain consistency in other aspects such as the positioning of
the body, eyes, mental state, and control of respiration, resembling the "basic ready
stance."
2. Usage: This is used for a ready.
3. Words of command: “Kyopson junbi!” but the last word “junbi” must be uttered loud.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
34
Bojumeok Jumbi seogi (covered fist ready stance)
1. Pose:
1. Two feet are kept like a close stance,
2. The other body sections are kept as in the basic ready stance,
3. Lift the hands up to the breast and make the left hand cover the clenched right fist
rolling up from the back or right hand with the four fingers excluding the thumb, as
if wrapping a thing, and the left hand thumb covers the righthand one,
4. Two arms from a circle by bending at the elbows, and
5. The height of the hands may have three options; near the solar plexus or up the neck
or up to the forehead.
2. Usage: This is used for a ready stance.
3. Words of command: “Bojumeok junbi!” also stressing the last word “junbi.”
Tongmilgi Jumbi seogi (pushing hands ready stance)
1. Pose:
1. Stand in a parallel stance.
2. Form both hands into sonnal (hand blade) shapes, raising them up until they are closer
together with palms facing upwards, reaching the height of the chest, and then gently push
the hands forward with the hand blades facing the front.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
35
3. As the hands are pushed forward, they should adopt a shape resembling holding a
volleyball.
4. Slightly bend the hands at the wrists towards the direction of the thumbs, and push the
elbows forward at an angle of approximately 120 degrees.
2. Usage: This is used for a ready stance.
3. Words of command: “Tongmilgi junbi!” the last word “junbi” being accentuated as an ordering
word."
6.3 Jumeok (fist)
The jumeok, or fist, serves as the foundational technique in Taekwondo, embodying the essence
of hand strikes. It is characterized by clenching the fingers tightly into the palm, with specific
variations tailored for different applications within Taekwondo techniques. Here is an overview of
each type of jumeok:
1. Jumeok (fist): The standard clenched fist, used for basic punching techniques.
2. Deungjumeok (fist back fist): Utilizes the back of the fist for striking, often employed in
backhand strikes or defensive techniques.
3. Mejumeok (hammer fist): Formed by making a fist with the palm facing downward,
enabling powerful downward strikes similar to a hammer blow.
4. Pyonjumeok (flat fist): The fist is flattened with the palm facing downward, used for
strikes that distribute force over a broader surface area, such as palm strikes.
5. Sosumjumeok (knuckle protruding fist): Involves protruding the knuckles forward,
emphasizing the striking surface of the knuckles for more focused and penetrative attacks.
6. Jipkejumeok (pincers fist): A unique variation where the thumb and forefinger are
extended apart from each other, resembling pincers. This technique is employed for both
punching and grappling, allowing for versatile offensive and defensive maneuvers.
In Taekwondo, mastering the jumeok is fundamental, as it forms the basis for various striking
techniques and serves as a cornerstone of effective martial arts practice.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
36
The way of forming:
1. Start with the palm of the hand unfolded.
2. Begin to clench the fingertips.
3. Clench the fingertips up to the first finger joints.
4. Cover the fingernails invisibly.
5. Clench the pincers and middle fingers with the thumb.
2. Usage: A jumeok is applied to the punch technique.
3. Precautions:
The fist should maintain a straight line between the fist-back and the forearm-back without
bending at the wrist.
Ensure that an extended line between the knuckles of the index finger and middle finger
remains straight with the forearm.
The hand-back and the first joints of the clenched fingers should form a right angle.
Forming the correct shape of this fist requires strenuous efforts as it is not easy to achieve
naturally.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
37
6.3.1 Deungjumeok (fist back fist)
1. Formation Method: The process of creating this fist is identical to that of a standard fist,
with the only distinction lying in its intended use. In this case, the back of the fist is
employed for offensive maneuvers.
2. Illustrations of its application are provided in the accompanying images, depicting strikes
such as the back-fist facing forward and the back-fist targeting the outer face.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
38
6.3.2 Mejumeok (hammer fist)
1. Formation Method: Similar to a fist, but exclusively utilizing the side of the hand where
the little finger is located. (Illustrations depict strikes such as a pounding hit on the head, a
pounding hit on the elbow joint, and a hit on the trunk flank.)
2. Application: Similar to the usage of the fist-back fist technique.
6.3.3 Pyunjumeok (flat fist)
1. Formation Process: Begin by clenching the fingers as you would when forming a jumeok,
rolling them towards the palm until they reach the second joints. However, maintain a slight
bend at the third joints, approximately at an interior angle of 160 degrees. Lightly place the
thumb against the second joint of the forefinger.
2. Target Areas: The primary striking surface of the pyonjumeok is the second joints of the
fingers. This allows for extended reach compared to a standard jumeok, and with consistent
practice to toughen the knuckles, it becomes capable of delivering potent strikes.
3. Application: Similar to the jumeok, the pyonjumeok is utilized as a punching technique.
However, it can also be employed for scratching purposes, offering versatility in combat
scenarios.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
39
6.3.4 Sosumjumeok (knuckle protruding fist)
1. Formation Process: To create the sosumjumeok, begin by forming a standard fist,
resembling the grip of holding a walnut within the jumeok. In this formation, the second
joint of the middle finger protrudes forward, while the first joint remains slightly bent
downward. The thumb supports the third joint, ensuring the middle finger remains steady
and does not retract.
Bum Jumeok “Looks like Pyramid!”
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
40
1. Target Area: The primary striking surface of the sosumjumeok is the second joint of the
middle finger.
2. Application: The sosumjumeok is employed in punch attacks similar to the jumeok but is
capable of delivering deeper and more penetrating strikes. It is particularly effective for
inflicting vital blows and is considered a lethal weapon technique.
6.3.5 Jipkejumeok (pincers fist)
1. Formation Process: Begin by forming a standard jumeok (fist), then open the thumb and
forefinger apart from each other while keeping the other fingers clenched.
2. Target Area: The thumb and forefinger, arranged in an arc shape, function as pincers for
this technique.
3. Application: The jipkejumeok is utilized in punch techniques, but it also incorporates the
action of grasping and tearing off the target. Typically, it is employed to strike the throat
region while simultaneously hooking it with the tips of the pincer fingers.
4. Precaution: During the attack, maintain the jipkejumeok in an upright position. After the
punch, the pincer fingers should simultaneously pull down on the throat as the fist retracts.
6.3.6 Son (Open hand)
Create a "son" (open hand) by spreading the fingers apart while keeping them slightly bent at their
third joints.
1. Formation Process: Form a flat hand by aligning the four fingers side by side, with their
last joints bent inward slightly. Attach the thumb, slightly bent at the first joint, to the base
of the forefinger.
2. Target Area: The applicable part of the sonnal extends from the tip of the little finger
down to the wrist.
3. Application: The sonnal is utilized for both offensive (chigi) and defensive (makki)
techniques.
4. Precaution: Maintain the hand in a straight line with the forearm when forming the sonnal,
avoiding any crookedness either upward, downward, inward, or outward.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
41
6.3.7 Sonnaldeung (hand-blade back)
1. Formation Process: Create the "sonnal" shape, similar to an open hand, but with the thumb
deeply buried inside the palm.
2. Target Area: The applicable part of this hand position includes the first joint of the thumb
and the base of the forefinger.
3. Application: Primarily used for both offensive (chigi) and defensive (makki) techniques.
(See photos)
4. Precaution: Emphasize keeping the thumb deeply buried inside the palm to maintain the
correct form.
6.3.8 Sondeung (hand-back)
1. Formation Process: Form the "sondeung" similarly to the "sonnal" shape, but the fingers
may be relatively loose.
2. Target Area: All parts of the hand from the back of the fingers to the hand back are
applicable for striking.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
42
3. Application: Primarily used for offensive (chigi) techniques, particularly for momentary
attacks at close distances.
4. Precaution: Ensure that the sondeung is accompanied by a repulsive reaction at the
moment of attack to maximize its effectiveness. (See photos)
6.3.9 Pyonsonkkeut (flat hand tips)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
43
1. Formation process: The same as the form of sonnal except that especially the forefinger,
middle finger and ring finger are tightly attached side by side with their finger tips
straightened in a line.
2. Applicable Part: The fingertips of the forefinger, middle finger, and ring finger.
3. Usage: Primarily used in thrusting (tzireugi) techniques but also applicable to hackle
(hulkki) techniques.
If the fingertips are conditioned through training, they can be effectively used in attacks,
extending the reach of the arm beyond that of a fist, enabling vital attacks.
There are three positions of Pyonsonkkeut depending on its application in attacks:
(a) Sewun-pyonsonkkeut: an erect position used in a sewo tzireugi (thrust).
(b) Jechin-pyonsonkkeut: a raised-up position for a jecheo tzireugi (punch from below).
(c) Upeun-pyonsonkkeut: a reverse position for upeo-tzireugi (overturned punch). (See
photos)
6.3.10 Kawisonkkeut (scissor’s finger-tips)
1. Formation: Extend the forefinger and the middle finger with the fingers spread apart,
while rolling the ring finger and little finger into the palm. Support the second joint of the
ring finger with the thumb.
2. Applicable Part: The fingertips of both the forefinger and middle finger are utilized.
3. Usage: Primarily used in thrusting (tzireugi) techniques, typically targeting the opponent's
eyes with both fingers. (See photos)
6.3.11 Hansonkkeut (single finger-tip)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
44
1. Formation: Extend the forefinger as if pointing at something, while the thumb provides
strong support to the second joint of the bent middle finger.
2. Applicable Part: Only the tip of the forefinger is utilized.
3. Usage: Primarily used for thrusting into one of the opponent’s eyes, but can also be
effective in stabbing other vital parts. (see photos)
6.3.12 Moundusonkkeut (combined two finger-tips)
1. Formation: Overlap the extended forefinger with the middle finger, maintaining the other
fingers as in the previous kawisonkkeut formation.
2. Applicable Part: Utilize the combined tips of the two fingers.
3. Usage: Similar to the hansonkkeut (single finger tip).
• Moundusonkkeut delivers greater power compared to hansonkkeut.
6.3.13 Mounsesonkkeut (conbined three finger-tip)
1. Formation: Bring together the forefinger and ring finger, placing the middle finger over
them, while keeping the remaining two fingers loosely attached.
2. Applicable Part: Utilize the combined tips of the three fingers.
The combined fingers create a triangular shape.
3. Usage: Similar to the hansonkkeut, but this variation of the flat hand tips generates greater
power than the latter.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
45
6.3.14 Modumsonkkeut (all combined finger-tips)
1. Formation: Bring all five fingertips together, ensuring they are touching, with the first
joints of all fingers except the thumb bending slightly inward.
2. Applicable Part: Utilize all combined five fingertips.
3. Usage: Employed for a tzikki (chopping technique at a shorter distance than tzireugi thrust)
technique.
6.3.15 Komson (bear hand)
1. Formation: Form the hand almost identical to how a pyonjumeok (flat fist) is made, with
all fingers except the thumb being bent harder than in the pyonjumeok.
2. Applicable Part: Utilize the third joints of the fingers.
3. Usage: Primarily used for chigi (hit) techniques, particularly for hitting the face inward,
resembling a bear's forefoot sole scratching.
6.3.16 Batangson (palm hand)
Formation: Gently raise the hand towards the back of the hand, maintaining a relaxed posture,
and lightly bend the fingers without tension.
Applicable Part: The base of the palm, towards the wrist.
Usage: Employed for both chigi (hit) and makki (defense) techniques. Due to its broad surface,
the batangson is not suitable for targeting vital areas and is occasionally utilized for defense
techniques.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
46
6.3.17 Kuppinsonmok (bow wrist)
1. Formation: Form the hand in the opposite manner to the batangson. Bow the wrist towards
the palm moderately, with the five fingers lightly grouped together.
2. Applicable Part: The wrist on the side of the bent hand back.
3. Usage: Primarily utilized for ollyeochigi (upward hit) or makki (defense) techniques.
Unlike the batangson, which can reach long distances for jireugi (punch) techniques, the
kuppinsonmok is suitable for relatively short-range attacks due to the bent elbow.
6.3.18 Agwison (arc hand)
1. Formation: Keep the thumb and forefinger moderately wide apart, while aligning the four
remaining fingers side by side, each slightly bent to form a rounded shape. Ensure the
forearm and hand back maintain a straight line to avoid resembling a batangson.
2. Applicable Part: The hollow area between the forefinger and thumb.
3. Usage: Primarily used for chigi (hit) techniques. The jaw or neck are ideal targets for the
agwison due to their compatibility with the hollow of the hand. Striking the lower part of
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
47
the jaw with the agwison is referred to as "nakteok," and the motion associated with this
technique is known as "khaljaebi."
6.3.19 Palmok (forearm, especially the wrist part)
1. Formation: The forearm, characterized by its large and long bone, serves various
defensive purposes. The inner and outer flanks of the forearm are particularly effective for
both defense and immediate counterattacks. However, the base and back of the forearm are
wider and more suitable for defensive techniques, as they are prone to bone fractures if
subjected to heavy impact.
2. Usage: Different parts of the forearm, including the outer flank (bakkatpalmok), inner
flank (anpalmok), back (deungpalmok), and base (mitpalmok), are applicable for different
techniques in Taekwondo.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
48
6.3.20 Palkup (elbow)
Formation: The elbow is utilized primarily for close-range striking techniques such as dollyo
chigi (spinning hit), ollyo chigi (lifting hit), naeryo chigi (pounding hit), yop chigi (lateral hit),
and dwi chgi (backward hit) when targeting nearby opponents.
7. Bal (foot)
The effectiveness of foot techniques in Taekwondo lies in their ability to maintain balance while
executing various movements such as standing, moving, turning, lowering, lifting, jumping,
kicking, and defending. Unlike hand or fist techniques, foot techniques require more training due
to the challenges of maintaining stability on one foot while executing the technique. However, foot
techniques offer several advantages, including stronger power and the ability to deliver attacks at
a distance.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
49
7.1 Apchuk (fore sole)
1. Applicable part: The foremost part of the sole, specifically the base of the tiptoes when
they are curled upward.
2. Usage: The apchuk serves as a pivot point when the body turns and is employed in
techniques such as ap chagi (front kick), dollyo chagi (roundhouse kick), biteuro chagi
(crescent kick), and bandal chagi (reverse roundhouse kick). Additionally, it functions as a
brake during body movements.
7.2 Dwichuk (back sole)
Applicable part: The rear part of the sole.
Usage: Similarly to the apchuk, the dwichuk serves as an axis during body turns. It is utilized in
techniques such as jitzitki (back kck), yop chagi (side kick), and podeo chagi (pushing kick).
7.3 Balkkeut (tiptoes)
Applicable part: The tips of the toes when they are extended straight forward.
Usage: Balkkeut is employed in a kick where the leg swings from the knee with spring power. It
is a medium-type kick between the front kick and the twist kick. This kick primarily targets the
opponent's groin or solar plexus, with the first toe directed upward, similar to the thumb in an erect
finger tips thrust.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
50
7.4 Balnal (foot blade)
1. Applicable part: The outer side between the sole and the foot back, extending from the
outer rim of the heel to the last toe.
2. Usage: This area is utilized in sidekick (yopchagi), blocking (makki or chaolligi), and
counterkick (bada chagi) techniques.
7.5 Balnaldeung (back of the foot blade)
Applicable part: The opposite side of the foot blade (the inner side of the foot), extending from
the inner heel to the inner side of the foresole.
Usage: This wide area is employed in blocking (makki), kicking (chagi) techniques, and
primarily in target kick (pyojeok chagi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
51
7.6 Dwikkumchi (heel)
1. Applicable part: The lower part of the heel.
2. Usage: This area is utilized in techniques such as naeryo chagi (drop kick), momdollyo
huryo chagi (body-turning thrashing kick), and nakka chagi (hooking kick).
7.7 Balbadak (sole)
1. Applicable part: All over the sole from the back sole to the toes, including the fore sole.
2. Usage: This area is utilized in techniques such as momdollyo huryo chagi and naeryo
chagi.
7.8 Baldeung (top of the foot)
1. Applicable part: The upper part of the foot, ranging from the ankle to the toes, with the
foot stretching at the ankle when applied to techniques.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
52
2. Usage: This area is utilized in techniques such as ollyo chagi, dollyo chagi, and huryo
chagi.
7.9 Jeonggangyi (shin)
Applicable part: The lower part of the leg, ranging from the ankle to the knee joint in the front.
Usage: This area is primarily used in makki techniques, providing length and solidity for
defense.
7.10 Mureup (knee)
The inflected knee is solid enough to be used in chigi (hit) techniques. It is applied to
ollyochigi (lifting hit) techniques.
1. Applicable part: The knee part when the leg is bent.
2. Usage: This part of the body is utilized in ollyochigi, dollyochigi, and huryochigi
techniques, particularly for lifting hits.
53
8. Makki (defense blocking)
Makki (defense or blocking) techniques are crucial in Taekwondo as they protect practitioners
from opponent attacks. While evading attacks by fleeing is often recommended, mastering
blocking techniques is essential for face-to-face confrontations. A person skilled in defense may
not instigate a fight but is capable of winning if necessary. Conversely, lacking defense skills
makes engaging in combat foolish. Defense alone may not suffice against a persistent attacker, so
weakening the opponent's offense is vital.
Makki techniques are designed to both defend and harm the opponent. By training the wrists or
hand blades rigorously, practitioners can incapacitate their opponent's limbs. Thus, makki must be
trained rigorously to function as effectively as offensive techniques. This approach embodies
Taekwondo's emphasis on virtuous behavior.
Taekwondo training typically begins with makki techniques before progressing to offensive
maneuvers. The art utilizes various bodily parts, leveraging hard and sharp elements for offense
and solid, lengthy parts for defense. Maintaining balance during defensive kicks is challenging,
underscoring the importance of using both arms for assistance.
In makki techniques, one wrist, especially the outer forearm, is typically employed, known as
"palmok-makki" (wrist blocking). "Sonnal makki" (hand blade blocking) utilizes the sharpness of
the hand blade but requires assistance from the other hand due to reduced blocking power. Makki
can also be assisted by the other wrist ("kodureo makki") or performed with one hand ("hansonnal
makki"). Makki techniques are categorized as inner makki (outer to inner blocking) or outer makki
(inner to outer blocking).
Officially, the starting point of makki is at waist level to defend the face, trunk level for the trunk,
and shoulder level for the lower body. Slight deviations from these levels are acceptable.
"Officially Established Terminology
a) Bodily parts used in makki + target + way of makki = the officially established term or
name of technique: Outer wrist + face + lift up + makki = olgul makki (face blocking)
Blocking the face by lifting up the outer wrist is a typical face blocking technique.
However, there are other methods for blocking the face.
b) Outer wrist + face + outer makki = olgul bakkat makki (face outer blocking) The outer
wrist can be used for blocking the face from the outer side. This technique is simply called
face outer blocking because it primarily involves the outer wrist.
c) Inner wrist + face + outer makki = anpalmok olgul-makki (inner wrist face outer blocking)
The inner wrist can also be utilized for outer blocking of the face, known as "inner wrist
face outer blocking."
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
54
d) Hand blade + trunk + outer makki = sonnal momtong makki (hand blade trunk blocking)
When using the hand blade for blocking, it is applied in outer blocking techniques targeting
the trunk. This is termed sonnal momtong makki for outer blocking.
e) One hand blade + trunk + inner makki = hansonnal momtong anmakki (one hand blade
trunk inner blocking) When employing the hand blade for blocking in inner blocking
techniques aimed at the trunk, it is referred to as hansonnal momtong anmakki.
Simplified terms are often used for blocking techniques, with specific forms indicated by pooms,
words, and accompanying images.
1. Outer wrist + face + lift-up makki = olgul makki
The blocking arm's wrist is positioned directly in front of the center of the face.
The blocking wrist is approximately one fist's distance from the forehead.
The wrist of the other arm is placed at the waist. (Point of Attention) Ensure the blocking
arm is slightly lower than the elbow of the opposite arm, while the fist of the opposite
arm is raised starting from shoulder height.
2. Outer wrist + face + outer makki = olgul bakkat makki
3. Inner wrist + face + outer makki = anpalmok olgul bakkat makki
4. Outer wrist + face + inner makki = olgul an makki
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
55
The use of inner wrist in an inner makki is awkward and less powerful; so, the use of the outer
wrist is commonplace, thereby necessitating no specification of “outer wrist” in the term.
5. Outer wrist + face + twist makki = olgul bitureo makki
6. Outer wrist + face + side makki = bakkat palmok olgul yop makki
7. Outer wrist + face + cross makki = olgul otgoreo makki
8. Outer wrist + face + outer makki = momtong bakkat makki
The blocking fist must be directed toward the body and the end of the fist must be
parallel with the shoulder line.
The outer hand’s wrist should be situated at the waist side, the bottom of the fist kept
faced upward.
(Point of attention)
The fist of the blocking arm, in the form of bending backward, is kept slightly lower(one fist’s
distance) than the other arm’s elbow, and the other arm is kept slightly apart from the blocking
arm’s shoulder, keeping the fist back directed upward from the inner side of the blocking arm.
9. Outer wrist + trunk + kodureo makki = momtong kodureo makki
The fist-back of the blocking arm is kept directed toward the body.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
56
The fist-back of the assisting arm is directed downward.
The blocking hand is kept in the equal form with the outer wrist trunk blocking.
The elbow of the blocking arm does not stink to the assisting fist.
(Point of attention)
The same method as in the hand-blade blocking, only the hand-blade changed into the fist.
10. Outer wrist + trunk + side makki = bakkatpalmok momtong yop makki
The side-blocking is in principle made by the inner wrist, therefore, the outer wrist must be
specified in case it is used in this blocking.
The fist is kept parallel with the shoulder line, stuck to the side of the trunk.
The arm-pit is kept open at a fist’s distance, the elbow looking the side of the shoulder.
The fist-back is kept looking the side the shoulder.
(Point of attention): The same way as in the outer-wrist trunk outer-blocking.
11. Outer wrist + trunk + inner makki = momtong makki
When the inner – makki was made with left – hand outer wrist in the left – foot stance (or right-
foot forward stance, tight – hand forward inflection stance, right – hand tiger stance)
In all the trunk-inner blocking, the wrist must be kept at the center of the body. In outer
blocking, the wrist is situated at the side of the shoulder.
The elbow is kept open at around 90~120 degrees.
The blocking fist is kept as high as the shoulder.
The wrist should not be bent.
The other hand’s wrist should be kept at the side of the waist, in the form of a bent fist.
12. Outer wrist + trunk + inner makki = momtong an makki
When the left–hand outer wrist makes an inner makki in the right foot stance.
13. Outer wrist + trunk + twist makki = momtong bitureo makki
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
57
14. Outer wrist + trunk + pushing makki = momtong hecho makki
Two fist-backs are kept looking toward the trunk.
The outer-wrist trunk outer-blocking is applied to both sides.
The wrist should be kept inside both sides of the shoulders.
(Point of attention): The bases of two fists will be crossed with each other looking toward the
trunk, and kept in the same form as in the outer-wrist trunk outer-blocking.
15. Outer wrist + trunk + pressing makki = momtong nullo makki
16. Outer wrist + underneath + outer makki = arae makki
The blocking fist is kept apart from the thigh of the fore-leg by the width of two erected
fists.
The wrist of the other hand will rest on the waist side in the form of bending.
(Point of attention)
The blocking fist will be lifted up to the shoulder’s level and the base part of the fist will face the
opposite side of the face. The other hand will be stretched toward the pit of stomach in a state of
bent wrist. The elbow of the blocking arm will neither be lifted up nor stuck to the body.
17. Outer wrist + underneath + assisting outer makki = arae kodureo makki
The same way as in a kodureo sonnal arae makki(assisted underneath blocking by hand-
blade)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
58
The fist is used instead of the hand-blade.
(Point of attention) The blocking fist with the base looking toward the face will be located in
front of the shoulder, and the assisting fist with its back looking toward the face will be raised up
to the ear’s level.
18. Outer wrist + underneath + side makki = arae yop-makki
The blocking is made by holding the wrist two fists’ distance apart in front of the lateral part
of the thing from a juchum seogi stance.
(Point of attention)
The blocking hand applies the same way as in an arae-makki, and yet the other hand will be
swung toward the waist on the side of the blocking arm and drawn back toward the waist side at
the same time as the arae-makki is enacted.
19. Outer wrist + underneath + bitureo makki = arae bitureo makki
20. Outer wrist + underneath + pushing makki = arae hecho makki
The fist will be kept at a two-fist distance in front of the lateral part of the thigh.
The hand will protrude oet slightly in the front.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
59
(Point of attention): The base parts of the two fists will be crossed with each other toward the
trunk, and then the two fists will be lowered to the lower part of the abdomen to make an arae
makki by laterally pushing.
21. Inner wrist + face + outer makki = arae otgoreo makki
The hand-blades will face each other and the wrists will be crossed with each other.
The two fists cross with each other from the waist on the side of the back foot to make
a blocking downward from the center line of the body.
The arm on the same side as the fore-foot is laid on the down side.
22. Inner wrist + face + assisting + side makki = olgul yop makki
23. Inner wrist + face + kodureo + side makki = olgul kodureo yop makki
24. Inner wrist + face + twist makki = anpalmok olgul bitureo makki
25. Inner wrist + face + hecho makki = anpalmok olgul hecho makki (hecho santul makki)
In a state of blocking, the two fists will be brought to the height of the level to head
temple.
The base parts of the two fists will face each other at the lateral part of the face.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
60
(Point of attention): The two fists will cross each other below the lower abdomen, the fist-backs
facing upward. Raising two arms upward, you make a pushing blocking sidedways in front of the
face.
26. Inner wrist + trunk + assisting outer makki = anpalmok momtong bakkat makki
The blocking fist is as high as the shoulder and it is located on the side of the shoulder.
The base of the fist of the blocking arm faces the body.
The arm-pit of the blocking arm will be kept open by the width of a fist.
The wrist of the other hand fist will be stuck to the waist.
(Point of attention): The fist of the blocking arm, in a turned-down form, will be located slightly
lower(a fist’s distance) than the elbow of the opposite arm, and the opposite arm starts its
movement from the inner side of the blocking arm, keeping the fist-back-facing upward and
slightly a loof from the shoulder on the side of the blocking arm.It is a general rule that the side
makki is made by inner wrist, and the trunk side makki by the outer wrist makes one feel tense in
muscle and decreases power and speed.
27. Inner wrist + trunk + assisting + side makki = anpalmok momtong kodureo makki
28. Inner wrist + trunk + side makki = momtong yop makki
A side-blocking is in principle made by the inner wrist. If you make a trunk side-blocking with
the outer wrist, you may suffer a muscle tension and the power and speed decrease. The stance
for making side-blocking is a juchumseogi.
29. Inner wrist + trunk + twist makki = anpalmok momtong bitureo makki
The wrist for the twist blocking (biteuromakki) is kept on the same level as the shoulder.
The wrist of the other hand is located on the waist side in the form of bending.
(Point of attention)
Same as anpalmok-momtong-bakkatmakki, twist the waist because of the shoulder of the
blocking arm should be front.
30. Inner wrist + trunk + hecho makki = anpalmok momtong hecho makki
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
61
The inner-wrist trunk outer-blocking is made from the both sides.
Two fists should be kept not to devidate from the body.
The base parts of two fists will face the trunk.
(Point of attention)
To begin this blocking, you must keep the wrists crossed with each other, making tje fist-backs
face the trunk.
31. Hand-blade + trunk + outer makki = sonnal momtong makki
The blocking hand-blade is located a position in parallel with the lateral part of the shoulder.
The finger-tips are kept as high as the shoulder.
The wrist should not be bent, the palm facing the front.
The assisting hand keeps its wrist at a position in front of the stomach pit and the hand-blade
slightly apart from the body.
(Point of attention): The palm of the blocking hand is kept facing upward, and the other hand
keeps its palm facing backward to begin the blocking. The finger-tips of the other hand are kept
parallel with the shoulder and the wrist slightly bent is smoothly lowered, while the finger-tips of
the blocking hand pass the front of the nose and the assisting hand is drown toward the stomach
pit.
32. Hand-blade + face + side makki = sonnal olgul yop makki.
33. Hand-blade + face + pushing makki = sonnal olgul hecho makki.
34. Hand-blade + face + cross makki = sonnal olgul otgoreo makki.
35. Hand-blade + trunk + outer makki = sonnal momtong makki.
36. Hand-blade + trunk + side makki = sonnal momtong yop makki.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
62
37. Hand-blade + trunk + pushing makki = sonnal momtong hecho makki
The same as in the trunk bakkatmakki.
The blocking is made by the hand-blade in a state of an open hand.
38. Hand-blade + underneath + outer makki = sonnal arae-makki
The blocking hand-blade with the hand-back facing upward will be positioned over the thigh
of the fore-leg with a vacancy of two erected fists’ width from the thigh. The wrist should
not be bent.
The wrist part of the assisting hand-blade comes in front of the stomach pit, keeping the
hand-blade slightly apart from the body.
(Point of attention)
The palm of the blocking hand is directed toward the face and the tips of the hand-blade are kept
as high as the ear. The other hand keeps its palm facing backward and the wrist part in parallel
with the shoulder, and the hand is lowered smoothly in a state of slight bendind to begin the blocking.
39. Hand-blade + underneath + hecho-makki = sonnal arae hecho makki
The same way as in the area hecho-makki (pushing blocking).
The blocking is made by the hand-blade in a state of an open hand.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
63
40. Hand-blade + underneath + cross makki = sonnal arae otgoreo makki.
41. One hand-blade + face + lift-up chukhyo makki = hansonnal olgul makki.
42. One hand-blade + face + outer makki = hansonnal olgul bakkat makki.
43. One hand-blade + face + side makki = hansonnal olgul yop makki.
44. One hand-blade + face + inner an makki = hansonnal olgul an makki.
45. One hand-blade + face + twist bitureo makki = hansonnal olgul bituro makki.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
64
46. One hand-blade + trunk + outer makki = hansonnal bakkat makki.
47. One hand-blade + trunk + outer makki = hansonnal bakkat makki.
48. One hand-blade + trunk + inner makki = hansonnal momtong makki.
49. One hand-blade + trunk + inner makki = hansonnal momtong an makki.
The same way as in the trunk outer-makki, only the blocking hand changed into a hand-
blade.
50. One hand-blade + trunk + twist makki = hansonnal momtong bitureo makki.
51. One hand-blade + trunk + underneath + push makki = hansonnal momtong nullo makki.
52. One hand-blade + underneath + outer makki = hansonnal arae makki.
The same way as in the areamakki, only the blocking hand changed into a hand-blade.
(Point of attention): The blocking hand-blade is raised as high as the shoulder, the base of the
hand-blade is directed toward the face on the opposite side. The other hand in a state of turned-
down fist will be smoothly strectched toward the thigh part on the blocking side. The elbow of the
blocking arm should not be lifted up and should be kept aloof not to stick to the body, at the time
of blocking.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
65
53. One hand-blade + underneath + side makki = hansonnal arae yop makki.
54. One hand-blade + underneath + twist makki = hansonnal bitureo makki.
55. Hand-blade back + face + outer makki = sonnaldeung olgul makki
56. Hand-blade back + face + outer makki = sonnaldeung olgul hecho makki.
The same way as in the hecho-santeulmakki (pushing wide-open blocking).
The hand-blade is used for this blocking. hansonnal arae makki.
57. Hand-blade back + trunk + assist + outer makki = sonnaldeung momtong bakkat makki.
The same way as in the hand-blade trunk-makki, the palm of the blocking hand facing
the body this time.
The fist-back of the assisting hand faces upward.
(Point of attention): The hand-back of the blocking hand is kept facing upward and the palm side
of the opposite hand facing the body to begin the blocking. The finger-tips of the opposite hand
are kept as high as the shoulder and the elbow in a slightly bending state will be lowered smoothly,
while the blocking hand’s finger-tips will pass the front of the nose and the assisting hand will be
drawn toward the pit.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
66
58. Hand-blade back + trunk + push makki = sonnaldeung momtong hecho makki.
The same way as in the inner-wrist trunk pushing-makki.
The hand-blade back in a state of open hand is used for the blocking.
59. Hand blade back + underneath + outer makki = sonnaldeung arae makki.
60. Bent wrist + face + lift up makki = kuppinsonmok momtong makki.
61. Bent wrist + trunk + lift up makki = momtong chukyo makki.
62. Bent wrist + trunk + outer makki = kuppinsonmok momtong bakkat makki.
63. Palm hand + face + lift up makki = batangson olgul makki.
64. Palm hand + face + inner makki = batangson olgul an makki.
65. Palm hand + trunk + lift up makki = batangson momtong chukyo makki.
66. Palm hand + trunk + inner makki = batangson momtong an makki
The palm hand is positioned in parallel with the stomach-pit, the finger-tips facing oblquely
upward.
The opposite hand wrist in a state of bent fist will rest on the waist side.
(Point of attention): The palm hand will be raised as high as the shoulder before it is bent
backward to thrash down to the front of the stomach-pit in order to make a blocking.
67. Palm hand + trunk + pressing makki = batangson momtong nullo makki.
The hand-blade will kept facing upward, the palm hand kept in front of the stomach-pit.
There will be a gap of two erected fists’ width between the blocking hand and the body.
The opposite hand wrist will rest on the waist side in the front of a bending fist.
(Point of attention): The blocking hand will be lifted to bring the palm part as high as the
shoulder before it is pressed down to make a blocking.
68. Batangson arae makki.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
67
69. Fore sole + face + kick up makki = olgul apcho-ollyo makki.
70. Fore sole + trunk + kick up = momtong apcho-ollyo makki.
71. Foot blade + face + kick up = olgul yopcho-ollyo makki.
72. Foot blade + trunk + kick up = momtong yopcho-ollyo makki.
The above 4 blocking patterns can be used in defending or attacking by a kick-up or a
simple chagi toward the front or sideways.
73. Foot blade + underneath + counter makki = arae bada makki.
74. Foot blade back + face + inner kick-away = olgul an chonae-makki.
75. Foot-blade back + trunk + inner kick away = momtong anchonae-makki.
76. Foot blade back + underneath + push off = anuro kodeonaegi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
68
77. Foot back + face + outer kick-away = olgul bakkatchonae makki.
78. Foot back + trunk + outer kick-away = momtong backkathchonae makki.
79. Shin + underneath + counter makki = jeonggangyi bada makki.
8.1 Teuksu Makki (Special blocking)
So far the explanations have been made regarding the use of each bodily part, i.e., wrist or hand
blade or foot, etc., but from now on the integrated use of two parts, which is called “teuksu makki”
(special makki), will be described. This special poom is used in practical makki techniques or is
part of the flow of motions in the course of proceeding makki techniques.
1. Kkureo olligi (drawing up)
(Point of attention)
The arm, in a stance of bending forward (apkubi), will be pulled slightly toward the side-line of
the shoulder before it is drawn up to the front of the stomach-pit with an open gap of an erected
fist’s width between the arm and the pit.
2. Santeul makki (wide open makki).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
69
In a state of blocking, the fists of both arms are kept at the height of the temple.
The base parts of the two fists will face each other along the side of the face.
In a juchumseogi stance, the posture looks like an inner-wrist side-blocking the face and an
outer-wrist side-blocking the face having been enacted simultaneously.
(Point of attention)
The hand used in the inner-wrist side-blocking the face will make the fist-back face the front at
the height of the face, and the hand used in the outer-wrist side-blocking will keep its back facing
the body and make a blocking by twisting the waist.
3. Sonnaldeung santeul makki (hand blade back wide open makki)
4. Wesanteul makki (single hand wide open makki).
The arm blocking the lower part of the body will keep its fist as high as a two fists’ width
from the lateral part of the thigh.
The arm blocking the upper part will keep the fist as high as the temple of the head.
(Point of attention): The arm blocking the upper part will start its action from a ready stance at the
time of inner-wrist outer-makki of the trunk, while the arm blocking the lower part from a ready
stance for an arae-makki.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
70
5. Sonnal wesanteul makki (hand blade single hand wide open makki)
The same way as in the single-hand wide-open makki, this time using the hand-blade.
The arm blocking the upper part keeps its finger-tips as high as the top of head.
6. Kawi makki (scissors makki)
The same form as in the araemakki and inner-wrist outer-blocking the trunk.
(Point of attention): In the form of starting an araemakki, the elbow of the arm to block the trunk
will be bent so that the fist is brought to the waist on the side of the hand blocking the lower part.
The two arms will cross each other simultaneously in blocking.
7. Hwangso makki (bull makki)
The form of the two fists having blocked the face simultaneously.
The fists are kept apart from each other at an erected fist’s width, and a gap of the same
width exist between the fist and the face, too.
(Point of attention)
In the form of a basic ready stance, the two fists will lift their bases upward over the face, where
the fists are twisted so that the fist-back may face the fore-head.
8. Sonbadak kodureo bakkat makki (palm assisting side makki)
9. Olgul kodureo yop makki (assisting face side makki)
The blocking hand will keep its fist base directed toward the side of the face and rest beside
the lateral part of the shoulder.
The assisting hand will rest in front of the chest in the form of a turned-down fist, and the
arm keeps slightly aloof from the body.
(Point of attention): This is to make a side-makki in the stance of a small doltzeogi.
10. Keumgang makki (diamond makki)
This consists of an arae makki and an olgul makki.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
71
At the time of a backward-inverted stance, the hand blocking the lower part will be
positioned above the thigh of the front foot.
(Point of attention)
The lower part blocking hand stars its action from the starting point of the blocking arm at the
time of an araemakki, the face-blocking hand does from the starting point of the blocking arm at
the time of a face-blocking.
11. Keumgang momtong makki (diamond trunk makki)
This consists of a face-blocking and an inner-wrist out-blocking of the trunk.
(Point of attention)
In the stance of a small doltzeogi, the two arms are drawn toward the chest to conduct both face-
blocking and inner-wrist out-blocking of the trunk simultaneously.
For a diamond-makki, it is essential that a face-blocking and another blocking are conducted
simultaneously.
12. Sonnal keumgang makki (hand blade diamond makki)
The same way as in the diamond arae-makki, except that the hand-blade is used this time.
13. Hakdari keungang makki (crane diamond makki)
This is an action having done a diamond-blocking in a crane stance.
The lower part blocking hand will rest in front of the lateral part of the trunk.
14. Pyojeok makki (target makki)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
72
The inner wrist of the other hand is used to make an inner-makki against the palm as a target.
15. Meongye ppaegi (yoke pull out).
16. Mithuro ppaegi (underneath pull out.)
17. Wiro ppaegi (upward pull out).
8.2 Jabki (grasping)
1. Agwison palmok jabki.
An arae-hand is used to grasp the opponent’s wrist in the course of the latter’s downward
hitting.
2. Sonmok jabki (cf. Poomsae Chonkwon)
3. Palmokbitreuo jaba kklki
After the action of a hand-blade twisting-makki of the trunk, the wrist is slowly turned
toward the hand-blade to grasp by twisting and drag in.
4. Balmok jabki (cf. Mureup kkukki motion and Poomsae Koryo)
5. Mori jabki (cf. Taegeuk 7 jang)
6. Okkae jabki (cf. Taegeuk 7 jang)
7. Mok jabki
A jipkeson (pincers-hand) is used to grasp the opponent’s neck.
9. Attack Techniques
Jireugi (punching), chigi (hitting), chagi (kicking), tzireugi (thrusting), hurigi (snapping), etc.
9.1 Jireugi (punching)
1. Olgul jireugi (face jireugi)
The philtrum (base of nose) is the typical target point in the face for jireugi.
The way of punching is identical with that of a momtong jireugi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
73
1. Olgul Jireugi
2. Momtong jireugi (trunk jireugi)
The solar plexus is the typical point of attack in the trunk.
The shoulder are kept wide open and the wrist of punching fist will rest on the waist, the
elbow sticking spontaneously to the body.
The arm-pit is kept closed, the fist of the opposite side is pulled rapidly with the maximum
use of the repulsive power of the waist, and at the same time a punching is directed toward
the height of the stomach-pit at the right center of the shoulders of both sides.
The pulling fist is drawn back rapidly on the straight line with the stomach-pit.
2-Momtong Jireugi
3-Arae Jireugi
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
74
3. Arae jireugi (underneath jireugi)
“Danjeon” (the lower part of abdomen) is the typical point of target in the lower part of the body.
The way of jireugi equals with that of a momtong jireugi. These three classifications are
combined into the terms of jireugi.
9.2 Poom (jireugi technique)
Target plus the method of jireugi makes the denomination of poom (or jireugi technique).
1. Yop jireugi (side jireugi): One delivers a jireugi to his or her side.
2. Naeryo jireugi (underneath jireugi): A jireugi of punching down.
3. Dollyo jireugi (spiral jireugi): The fist does not stretch straight as it is but half spirals before
reaching the target from the waist. This is used when the opponent is closer and the elbow bend a
little.
4. Chi jireugi (upward jireugi): Usually a punch is delivered to the opponent’s jaw by the fist
thrusting straightly upward from the waist, in which the back of fist faces the opponent, the elbow
slightly bending.
As mentioned above, jireugi are differentiated by their classification according to the means of
punching, targets and directions, which combined together define the terms, i.e., the completed
movements of jireugi as well as the names of pooms.
1-Yop Jireugi, 2-Naeryo Jireugi, 3-Dollyo Jireugi, 4-Chi Jireugi
So far we have seen the standard forms of jireugi, but there are applied to techniques of jireugi
with the specific terms.
1. Olgul baro jireugi
(Point of attention): The same as the face-jireugi.
2. Olgul bandae jireugi
(Point of attention): The same as the face-jireugi.
3. Momtong baro jireugi.
The fist on the back foot side executes a jireugi so that it is laid on the straight line with the
stomach pit.
(Point of attention): The same as the momtongjireugi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
75
4. Momtong bandae jireugi.
The fist on the back foot side executes a jireugi so that it is laid on the straight line with the
stomach pit.
(Point of attention): The same as the momtongjireugi.
5. Arae baro jireugi.
6. Arae bandae jireugi.
1- Olgul Baro Jureugi, 3- Momtong Baro Jureugi, 4- Momtong Bandae Jireugi
7. Olgul yop jireugi
8. Momtong yop jireugi
A side-jireugi is executed when the two feet’s tips are directed toward the front as in a juchumseogi
stance.
The fist makes a jireugi sideways in a juchumseogi stance.
(Point of attention): The fist on the other side which was crossing the trunk is pulled and at the
same time, the punching fist makes a side jireugi.
9. Baro naeryo jireugi.
10. Baro naeryo jireugi.
There is no need of mentioning “arae” (lower part) because the “naeryo jireugi” is itself related
with and underneath target.
11. Olgul barosewo jireugi.
12. Olgul bandaesewo jireugi.
13. Momtong barosewo jireugi.
14. Momtong barosewo jireugi.
15. Arae barosewo jireugi.
16. Arae barosewo jireugi.
The elbow may be fully stretched when the sewojireugi is targeted on face of underneath, but it is
better to keep the elbow slightly bent in case of momtong sewojireugi.
17. Olgul barodollyo jireugi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
76
18. Olgul bandaedollyo jireugi.
19. Momtong barodollyo jireugi.
20. Momtong bandaedollyo jireugi.
A dollyojireugi is not applied to underneath targets.
21. baro chi jireugi.
22. bandae chi jireugi.
A chijireugi aims uniquely at the jaw; therefore, there is no need of mentioning the target in the
term.
23. Baro jeocho jireugi.
24. Bandae jeocho jireugi.
Bandae jeocho jireugijeocho jireugi: both fists with their backs downward are used in a jeocho
jireugi. At the time of performing a jeocho jireugi, the trunk and there will be a gap of a fist’s
width between the two fists As mentioned above, because of all of the jireugi is not need to
emphasized as a “jireugi” as the movement using the fists. As well as the names of pooms are
using simple words with full of meanigs.Next, the expression of the pooms and the part of the
body when you are using the jireugi, the fists changed like a pyon-jumoek, a sosumjumoek, and a
jipkejumoek.
25. Pyonjumeok olgul baro jireugi.
26. Pyonjumeok olgul bandae jireugi.
25- Pyonjumeok Olgul Baro jireugi, 26- Pyonjumeok Olgul Bandae Jireugi
27. Pyonjumeok momtong baro jireugi.
28. Pyonjumeok momtong bandae jireugi.
29. Pyonjumeok arae baro jireugi.
30. Pyonjumeok arae bandae jireugi.
31. Pyonjumeok olgul yop jireugi.
32. Pyonjumeok momtong yop jireugi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
77
33. Pyonjumeok baro naeryo jireugi.
34. Pyonjumeok bandae naeryo jireugi.
35. Pyonjumeok olgul baro sewo jireugi.
36. Pyonjumeok Olgul Bandae Sewo Jireugi.
35- Pyonjumeok Olgul Baro Sewo Jireugi, 36- Pyonjumeok Olgul Bandae Sewo Jireugi
37. Pyonjumeok momtong baro sewo jireugi.
38. Pyonjumeok momtong bandae sewo jireugi.
The other types of fist, such as sosumjumeok, and jipkejumeok, can be equally applicable to the
above in naming the terms. However, the sosumjumeok can not make any sewojireugi because it
is itself pointed, while the jipkejumeok is used only for a limited target, I. E., the uvula.
9.3 Teuksu Jireugi
All the above mentioned jireugi are principally perfomed by one fist. Now the combined use of
both arms, which is called a special jireugi will be described in the following:
1. Dujumeok jeocho jireugi (two fists bent backward jireugi)
Two fists are simultaneously bent backward to make jireugi; so, there are no ways of either a
barojireugi or a bandaejireugi.
2. Sosum jireugi (spring up jireugi)
Two sosumjumeok execute a chi jireugi to punch the two sides of the jaw.
(Point of attention): The same way as mentioned in the point of attention for a jeochojireugi, only
the fist changing into a sosumjumeok.
3. Pyojok jireugi (target jireugi)
Either one of the hands will be set as a target to be punched by the other hand’s fist.
The other hand not making a jireugi is set as a target for a straight jireugi is set as a target
for a straight jireugi without bending the elbow.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
78
The thumb of the hand set as a target will be stuck to jipke-finger and it does not grab the
punching fist.
4. “U” ja jireugi (“u”letter shape jireugi)
One fist punches the opponent’s face and the other the trunk at the same time, making the two
arms shape the form of “u”letter lying down laterally.
The upper fist whose fist-back faces upward delivers a jireugi at the philtrum on the face,
and the lower fist whose fist-back faces downward delivers one at the stomach-pit.
(Point of attention): The dujumeok-heori (two fists at the waist) ready stance is transformed into
a seogi-stance so that a jireugi may be made.
A jireugi can also be made in a small doltzeogi stance.
“u” ja baro jireugi : a “u”ja jireugi with the fist punching the face on the side of back foot
and the fist punching the trunk on the side of fore foot.
“u” ja bandae jireugi :the reverse way of the “u”baro jireugi.
5. Chetdari jireugi (fork shape jireugi)
The two fists punch the opponent’s trunk equally. Two arms shaping the form of “u” letter
horizontally. In fact, the left fist makes a momtong-bandaejireugi, when the left foot is placed
forwad, while the right fist a momtong-barojireugi in the same stance. At that time, the left
shoulder turns forward by 45 degrees and the right elbow is slightly bent, the fist closer to the left
forearm by a fist’s width.
6. Dwi jireugi (back jireugi)
One elbow hits backward while the other arm’s fist punches the face target by turning in the same
direction as the other elbow.
(Point of attention)
In a juchumseogi and a small doltzeogi stance, the punching arm is thrown over the shoulder
bending the elbow by twisting the waist to the maximum so that its elbow may deliver a punching
at the stomach-pit, keeping the wrist stuck to the waist afterwards, while the fist of the other hand
delivers a jireugi toward the face.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
79
7. Dangkyo teok jireugi (pulling the jaw jireugi)
Pulling the opponent’s jaw by the left fist, one delivers a chijireugi at the jaw at the same time with
the right fist, the left fist coming to the front of attacker’s right shoulder.
The jireugi fist in the state of bending backward will deliver a jireugi; as high as the jaw.
The fist of the other hand is laid in front of the shoulder on the side of the punching arm
keeping the base of punching fist directed toward the face.
(Point of attention)
The fist-back is directed toward the body and the punching arm is bent to be stuck to the body at
the height of the chest while a jireugi is delivered, in the course of which the punching fist is bent
just before reaching the target. The other arm to be pulled crosses with the punching fist in the
front of the chest, and as soon as it reaches the front of the shoulder the fist is bent backward.
Jireugi and pulling are made simultaneously.
8. Keumkang ap jireugi (diamond forward jireugi)
One arm executes an olgulmakki (face defense) while the other arm’s fist punches the
opponent’s face. The direction of the two actions are the same.
An olgulmakki and a momtongjireugi are made simultaneously.
(Point of attention): A small doltzeogi is formed toward the waist on the side of the arm delivering
a momtongjireugi, and then a keumgang apjireugi is delivered at the same time as an apkubi stance
is formed by making a step forward. However, a small doltzeogi may be ommitted according to
the position of the hand.
9. Keumkang yop jireugi (diamond side jireugi)
One arm carries out a face defense while the orther arm’s fist does a momtong yopjireugi. The
lower part the body makes juchumseogi and the direction of the two arms is different from each
other.
This is a posture formulated when an olgulmakki and a yopjireugi are made simultaneously.
(Point of attention)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
80
A small doltzeogi is formulated at the waist on the side of the momtongjireugi arm in a juchum-
seogi stance, before an olgulmakki and a yop-jireugi are made.
10. Nalgae jireugi (wing jireugi)
One stretches out both fists at the same time, making the body in the form of a cross. The whole
body will be tensed by concentration of force and the punches will be delivered relatively slowly
as if pulling.
In a nalgae-pyogi (wing opening) stance, a jireugi by the fist is delivered, keeping the fist-
back facing upward and the elbow stretched straight.
11. Momtong dubeon jireugi
Double face punch.
10. Chigi (hitting)
If an attack is enacted by the use of spinning force of the body or the fist moves in a circle with
the elbow either inflected or stretched to inflict impact on a target, it is called “chigi” (hitting).
There are various types of chigi and they are largely termed under the way of motions by the
applied bodily parts toward the targets.
10.1 Applied Part + Target + Type of Chigi = Name of Poom
1. fist back + face + ap chigi = ap chigi
The parts of the pointing finger and the middle finger on the fist back are employed.
The wrist on the side of the hitting fist-back fist should not be bent.
There are an erected fist-back fist and a bent-backward fist-back fist.
(Point of attention): The hitting fist-back fist with its fist-back facing upward is lifted up brushing
past the arm-pit over the waist on the opposite side to make a hitting by bending the fist-back fist
at the height of the philtrum.
Deungjumeok olgul ap-chigi (fist back face front-hitting) = ap chigi: one hits the face target from
the front by using the back.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
81
The way of hitting: The hitting fist goes straight forward to the target, slipping away from the
armpit and crossing the other arm, which withdraws back from the solar plexus to the waist. The
body turns sideways 45 degrees.
The fist back can deliver the strongest hitting if a target is to hit from the front and the face is the
only best target because any target below it may weaken the hitting.
This is simply called “ap chigi”. If the hand blade or hammer fist (mejumeok) is used, than the
applied part is added to the term; for example, “sonnal ap chigi.” And if target is the trunk, then
we called it “deungjumeok momtong ap chigi.” A variation of apchigi is the assisting apchigi,
which is helped by the other fist.
2. Fist back + face + outer chigi = olgul bakkat chigi
The same way as in the outer-makki, but the hitting is made against the targets of the lateral
jaw and the head temple.
The fist-back fist is erected to the height of the philtrum to deliver a hitting.
(Point of attention)
The arm of hitting fist back, unlike in the apchigi, makes a circling from outside the elbow of
withdrawing arm.
3. Olgul kodureo bakkat chigi (assisting face outer chigi)
The two fists will face each other with their fist-backs facing upward at the waist on the side
of the assisting arm.
The fist making an apchigi (front hitting) executes a chigi with its fist-back bending
backward, passing through the front of philtrum (injung), and, at the same time, the assisting
arm places the wrist part in front of the stomach-pit, by pulling the fist, whose fist-back is
made to face downward.
A slight gap exists between the wrist and the philtrum.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
82
4. Momtong bakkat chigi.
5. Deungjumeok + olgul + yop chigi = yop chigi (side chigi)
6. Deungjumeok + momtong + yop chigi = momtong yop chigi
The hitting arm stretches on the same line with the body’s sideward line. At the time of a
momtong bakkat chigi, the attacker’s body turns sideways by 45 degrees and the arm forms an
angle, the opponent standing in front.
7. Deungjumeok + momtong + naeryo chigi = momtong naeryo chigi
This action has the primary purpose of makki rather than an attack.
The fist-back fist makes a naeryochigi (downward hitting) downward passing through the
trunk by means of bending itself.
(Point of attention)
The fist-back fist making a chigi keeps its fist-back face upward at the height of the ear on the
opposite side, and then bend itself downward to make a chigi, at the same time when the other
hand is pulled back after it has been lightly extended forward.
8. Deungjumeok + arae + naeryo chigi = arae naeryo chigi
This hitting is usually used in the breaking techniques.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
83
9. Mejumeok olgul ap chigi (hammer fist face front chigi).
10. Mejumoek olgul an chigi (hammer inner chigi).
11. Mejumoek momtong an chigi (hammer trunk chigi).
12. Mejumoek olgul bakkat chigi (hammer outter chigi).
13. Mejumoek momtong bakkat chigi.
14. Mejumoek olgul yop chigi (hammer side chigi).
15. Mejumoek momtong yop chigi.
16. Mejumoek olgul naeryo chigi (hammer downward chigi, which usually hits the head).
17. Mejumoek momtong naeryo chigi
18. Mejumoek arae naeryo chigi (hammer underneath chigi)
19. Mejumoek pyojok chigi
A target is formed when the target hand keeps its thumb opened.
At a target hitting by a mejumeok (hammer fist), the fist hits the palm of the target hand.
The target hand should not grasp the hitting fist.
20. Mejumoek arae pyojok chigi.
The two arms are kept open from each other at the upper side and then brought down to the
front of the lower abdomen to deliver a target hitting with a hammer-fist.
The two arms conducting a target hitting will not be completely unfolded.
There is a gap of an erected fist’s width between the target hitting hand and the lower
abdomen.
21. Hansonnal + olgul + ap chigi = sonnal olgul ap chigi
22. Hansonnal + olgul + ap chigi = sonnal olgul ap chigi (if the target is the neck, it is called
“sonnal mok chigi”)
A curved hand-blade executes a neck-hitting.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
84
The other hand will be extended forward and it is pulled back to be laid on the waist when
a neck-hitting is executed.
23. Hansonnal + olgul bakkat + chigi = sonnal olgul bakkat chigi
A neck-hitting is made by an overturned hand-blade.
The other hand will be extended forward before it is pulled back to be laid on the waist at
the time of delivering a neck-hitting.
As shown in the above, the attack with “one hand blade” is described simply as “hand blade”,
omitting the word “one” because an attack is carried out with one hand like the defense. Also the
anchigi (inner hitting) with “one hand blade” uses the “jeochin sonnal”, which means the hand
blade with crooked finger tips; therefore, it is unnecessary to add the word “jeochin” to the terms.
Nor is necessary to specify the “upeun sonnal” (turned over hand blade) in case of executing a
bakkat chigi with one hand blade. When two hand blades are applied for attack, it is called
“dusonnal”.
24. sonnal momtong an chigi
25. sonnal momtong bakkat chigi
26. sonnal olgul yop chigi
27. sonnal momtong yop chigi
In a juchumseogi stance, the hand-blade is laid above the shoulder on the opposite side and
the palm base looks toward the face.
The fist of the other arm is laid in front of the shoulder on the side of the yop chigi arm and
the fist base looks toward the face.
The overturned hand-blade is hit laterally.The other (opposite side) arm is pulled toward the
waist to make its wrist laid on the waist.
28. sonnalnaeryo chigi.
29. sonnaldeung (hand blade back) olgul an chigi.
30. sonnaldeung olgul bakkat chigi.
31. sonnaldeung momtong an chigi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
85
32. sonnaldeung momtong bakkat chigi.
31. sonnaldeung momtong an chigi, 36. komson (bear hand) olgul ap chigi, 37. komson olgul an chigi.
33. sonnaldeung olgul yop chigi.
34. sonnaldeung momtong yop chigi.
35. sonnaldeung naeryo chigi.
36. komson (bear hand) olgul ap chigi.
37. komson olgul an chigi.
38. Batangson (palm hand) olgul ap chigi = batangson teok (jaw) chigi
The finger-tips of a palm hand (batangson) will face upward and then they will be leaned
sideways by an angle of 45 degrees to make a front hitting.
39. Batangson olgul an chigi.
40. Batangson momtong an chigi.
41. Batangson olgul ollyo (raise up) chigi
42. Agwison (arc hand) olgul ap chigi = khaljaebi
The batangson teok chigi and khaljaebi are carried out in a straight line motion as in the
jireugi. But they are termed chigis because the applied bodily parts are wide and long.
The batangson teok chigi and khaljaebi are carried out in a straight line motion as in the
jireugi. But they are termed chigis because the applied bodily parts are wide and long.
Hitting the neck: one attacks the gullet region with the arc hand by stretching the arm straight
as in the jireugi.
bending the knee: grasp a dwichuck with a hand and attack the knee with an agwison.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
86
43. Kupinsonmok olgul ollyo chigi = kupinsonmok teok chigi (bent wrist jaw chigi)
Kupinsonmok is mainly used in defense.
44. Jipke sonmok chigi (pincers wrist chigi)
This is principally used in attacking the neck like the arc hand.
45. Palkup (elbow) ollyo chigi
The elbow making a raise-up hitting is raised upward skimming the arm-pit to deliver an
ollyochigi.
The back of the hand looks sideways.
The waist is twisted at the time of hitting.
46. Palkup dollyo chigi (turning chigi)
The back of the hand looks upward and the elbow is turned to the maximum to be located
in front of the shoulder.
The elbow is positioned at a point higher than the shoulder line.
The waist is twisted at the time of hitting.
47. Palkup naeryo chigi (downward chigi)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
87
48. Palkup dwiro chigi (backward chigi)
49. Palkup yop chigi
In a juchumseogi stance, the fist of hitting side is brought to the shoulder line on the opposite
side to touch the opposite hand’s palm, and then the elbow makes a lateral hitting, making
profit of the power of pushing by the opposite hand.
The finger-tips of the opposite hand look upward and they do not grab the fist.
The opposite hand is positioned in front of the chest on the hitting elbow’s side
50. Palkup pyojeok chigi (target chigi)
The hand on the opposite side is opened to become a target.
The elbow of the attacking arm hits the target.
The target does not move and the elbow moves to make a hitting.
The thumb of the target hand is stuck to the pincer-finger and it should not grab the elbow.
The knee hitting is mainly executed by hitting upward, therefore it is used in attacking an
opponent’s testicles or the head when it is grabbed and dragged down with the help of a hand. It
is also used in a trunk hitting by means of a turning chigi when the opponent’s trunk is grabbed
and pulled.
51. Mureup ollyo chigi (knee raise up chigi)
One leg supports the body and the other leg’s knee is bent to be lifted up for a chigi.
Two hands with clenched fists are pulled down to be located on both sides of the ankle-
bones of the knee hitting leg.
The waist is lightly curved and the ankle rests in a natural state.
52. Mureup dollyo chigi (knee turning chigi)
As one leg supports the body, the other leg is raised up by bending the knee to execute a
dollyochigi.
One hand pulls and drags in some part of the opponent’s body so that the other hand may
execute a chigi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
88
10.2 Teuksu Chigi
1. Jebi poom teok chigi (swallow poom jaw hitting)
In case of the left apkubi (forward inflection stance) stance, the left hand blade applies a face
makki while the right palm hand hits the opponent’s jaw by an inner chigi, twisting the body.
2. Jebi poom mok chigi (neck chigi)
In case of the left apkubi stance, the left hand blade applies a face makki while the right hand
blade hits the opponent’s neck by an inner chigi, twisting the body.
The hand on the fore-foot side uses its hand-blade to execute a face-blocking.
The hand on the back-foot side rests in a state of having executed a neck-hitting with its
hand-blade, while the elbow fo the neck-hitting arm is almost completely extended.
(Point of attention)
The palm of the face-blocking hand-blade will look upward while it will be located at the waist
on the opposite side; and the hand to deliver a sonnal-mokchigi makes its back look toward the
shoulder and executes a hansonnal-olgul-makki and a hansonnal-olgul-mokchigi simultaneously.
The waist is twisted so that the shoulder on the side of a sonnal-mokchigi may come to the front
side.
The term of “jebi poom” comes from the shape of a twisting body, which looks like the indented
waist part of a swallow between its body and its tail part and the two opened hands form the
wings of a swallow.
3. Dangkyo teok chigi (pulling jaw chigi)
One hand pulls the opponent while the other hand’s back applies a front chigi at the chin
The fist of the opposite arm is extended straight forward.
The hitting arm with its fist-back fist looking backward is located above the lateral part of
the shoulder.
The opposite arm is pulled and the fist-back fist is bent to make a chigi.
The pulled-in fist with its back facing upward comes below the elbow of the fist-back fist
arm.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
89
4. Pyojeok chigi (target chigi)
One hand blade executes a side makki while the other hand’s fist hits the base of that hand’s
palm.
5. Meongye chigi (yoke chigi)
Clenching the fists and opening the elbows sidewards, one delivers side chigi repectively by
stretching the elbow.
Both fists cross each other and are located on the shoulder line of the opposite side before a
side chigi is made by the elbow, and finally both fists are brought to the front of chest.
The fist back is kept looking upward and it rests slightly aloof from the trunk.
6. Mejumeok yopguri chigi (hammer fist flank chigi):
The two fists are clenched and each is brought up above the shoulder, keeping the elbow
folded and the base of the fist looking toward the front.
With a mejumeok (hammer fist), chigi are delivered against both flanks of the opponent’s
waist.
The base of the hammer fist is made to look upward.
The movements of both arms are made simultaneously.
7. Doosonnal mok chigi (double blade hands neck-chigi)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
90
Two hand-blades, in a state of opening, each resting above the shoulder, inflict a mokchigi
against the opponent.
8. Doosonnal yopguri chigi (double blade hands flank-chigi)
Two hand-blades, in a state of opening above the shoulder, inflict chigi against both flanks of the
opponent.
9. Bitureo hansonnal mok chigi (one hand blade twist neck chigi)
This is a state in which the hand-blade on the back-foot side has made a mok-chigi.
(Point of attention)
The same way as in the jebi-poom mok-chigi except that a hansonnal olgul-makki is left out.
11. Tzireugi (thrusting)
Tzireugi techniques can be performed in the same way as the jireugi techniques except that their
applied bodily parts are not the fists but the fingertips which are pointed to be enabled to pierce
deeper into the target and loger by a finger’s length to be able to reach a more distanced target. To
the contrary, the finger joints, if they are not hard enough by training, are likely to be broken away
easily.
11.1 Terms of Tzireugi
1. Pyonsonkkeut sewo tzireugi (flat hand fingertips erect tzireugi):
This aimes mainly at the opponent’s solar plexus.
The elbow of the hand making a pyonsonkkeut jireugi rests over the hand-back of the other
hand.
The pyonsonkkeut (palm-fist finger-tips) makes a jireugi straight forward in parallel with
the height of the solar plexus.
(Point of attention)
In a state in which the other hand is unfolded and extended forward, the elbow will be bent
making finger-tips look upward and then a pushing-makki by the palm and a pyonsonkkeut
jireugi from the waist are executed simultaneously.
2. Pyonsonkkeut upeo tzireugi (palm downward tzireugi)
This is mainly used in attacking the opponent’s eyes, neck and solar plexus. Its underneath
attacking is not effective.
3. Pyonsonkkeut jeocho tzireugi (palm upward tzireugi)
This is mainly used in attacking the opponent’s ribs, solar plexus, groin, etc.
The finger-tips will look downward while the palm side will face upward.
The opposite hand, whose base part looks toward the face, is raised up to the level of the
shoulder.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
91
(Point of attention): The hand making a jireugi rests on the waist with its palm facing upward, and
the opposite hand is extended forward, with its back looking upward, to deliver jireugi alternately
together with the before-mentioned.
4. Kawisonkkeut tzireugi (scissers fingertips tzireugi)
This is mainly used in attacking the opponent’s two eyes at a time. The palm is kept facing
downward.
5. Hansonkkeut tzireugi (one fingertip tzireugi)
Mainly one eye is target.
6. Moun dusonkkeut tzireugi (joint two fingertips tzireugi)
This aims at the opponent’s eyes, neck and solar plexus exerting more force than one fingertip.
7. Moun sesonkkeut tzireugi (joint three fingertips tzireugi)
Targets are the same as the two fingertips attack.
8. Modum sonkkeut tzikki (all joint fingertips pounding)
The five fingertips together make a powerful attack almost like the fist, but this technique can carry
out downward or inward attack only because it cannot make a straight motion like tzireugi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
92
11.2 Teuksu Tzireugi
1. Hakdari seogi tzireugi (crane stance tzireugi)
Thrusting forward, one makes a crane stance and make one hand perform nulleo makki (pressing
makki) while the other hand executes a pyonsonkkeut sewo tzireugi.
12. Chagi
A chagi is a technique to overpower the opponent by making use of the foot manipulated by the
motion of leg. The chagi can be performed by using the force at the time of extending the bent and
folded knee or the flexion force of the extended leg, making use of the body’s turning force. The
chagi techniques are classified by the motion of leg and foot, and the kicking power diggers
according to the applicable parts of the body. There are also other classification methods according
to the way of kicking either by holding the opponent or using the impellent force.
1. Ap Chagi (front kick)
1. First, raise the folded knee of the kicking leg up to the breast and immediately push the
foot forward, fully stretching the leg. The track of foot must be on a straight line toward
the target.
2. The target must be kicked by the fore sole, the toes bending outward. The groin, lower part
of abdomen, solar plexus, chin, etc, are the targets.
3. The kicking foot is drawn back by reaction to its original position. However, the foot may
be placed where the attacker can easily make a next movement. If the attacker keeps
himself or herself out of balance while he or she executes a kicking or he or she retreats
the kicking foot, the chagi was not perfect.
4. The supporting leg on the ground should not stretch the knee fully before or during the
kicking because the upright standing is more likely to cause falling down of the attacker or
weakening of the kicking force. Nor is easy to make the next movement.
If the standing leg is supported by the entire sole of the foot, the weight is laid on the hip joint and
the knee joint, in which case the kicking is less speedy and powerful of impulsive force.
Sometimes, the knee joint or the hip joint breaks away. Therefore, it is necessary to lift the heel
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
93
slightly by stretching the ankle so that the fore sole may pivot at the moment of a kick and then
the back sole will touch the ground again after the kick. However, one should be careful not to
stretch the ankle too much, because it would lift up the center of weight.
The fore sole is generally used in the apchagi but occasionally the toes are also used when
such vital parts as groin and solar plexus are to be targeted. The foot back also can be used
in the apchagi uniquely for an attack of groin, which is called “ap ollyeo chagi” (front lift
up kick).
2. Yop chagi (side kick)
1. As in the apchagi, one lifts up the kicking leg, folding the knee, and then stretches the
folded knee as he or she turns the body in the opposite direction to the target and kick
the target with the back sole of foot.
2. At the moment of the kick, the base of the kicking leg twists at the pelvis in a manner
of turning over and the head is raised to keep the eye fixed at the target. At this moment,
the trunk also twist like a spiral from the shoulder to the pelvis region and the leg.
Therefore, the back sole can kick the target powerfully by spiraling just as a bullet
passes through the rifle barrel spiraling. The target is determined according to the
opponent’s position; if the opponent is facing the front, the target will be the face or
the solar plexus and it will be the flank or the side chin, if the opponent stands sideways.
3. After the kick, the kicking leg will be drawn back to the original position or where it is
intended to be placed for next moves.
4. The other leg supporting the body will assist the kick by pivoting on its fore sole,
stretching the ankle and help accelerate the speed of kick by stretching knee
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
94
simultaneously. At the time of retreating the kicking leg, the supporting leg’s ankle and
knee will be lowered again.
At the moment of a yopchagi, the upper body should not be left falling in the direction opposite to
the target. The upper part of the body must be raised so that the entire body may from a “y” letter
shape, enabling the weight to be converted into impellent force of kick.
A yopchagi applies the back sole and the foot blade in attacking and they must move on a
straight line from the starting point to the target.
3. Dollyo chagi (round house kick)
1. Putting the weight on the pivoting foot, one turns the body immediately after folding the
knee and, as the knee stretches, makes the kicking foot circle horizontally so that the fore
sole may kick the target (The foot back can also be used as the kicking part).
2. The supporting leg stretches its ankle and knee to help the fore sole pivot the body easily.
3. The kicking leg must stop at the time of kicking the target without making a follow through.
4. Unlike the apchagi or yopchagi, the kicking foot does not make a straight line track. The
foot is first raised and then begins to move in a circle.
After a hard training, the dollyochagi will be able to make a pounding kick from above the
target at the time of kick.
The basic techniques of chagi consist of apchagi, yopchagi and dollyochagi, but there are
variations in the chagi techniques.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
95
4. Momdollyo chagi (turning back kick)
From wen apseogi, the explanation of momdollyo chagi is as follows:
1. Looking toward left foot, one’s body turns 180 degrees one’s eye turns 360
degrees to clockwise rotation.
2. When the body is turned, at the same time foot moves together and put forth, right
forward stance, it is called ban momdollyo chagi.
3. One’s body and leg used for kicking turn 360 degrees completely, the kicked foot
is put at the begining position again, it is called “momdollyo chagi”.
To kick at the right forward stance, when the body is started to turn, left foot put one step forth,
and left foot can be pivot, turns to clockwise rotation, kicks with right foot, it is called
“onmomdollyo chagi”
The sort of momdollyo chagi
a) ban momdollyo chagi
b) ban momdollyo yop chagi
c) ban momdollyo huryo chagi
d) ban momdollyo nakka chagi
e) ban momdollyo naeryo chagi
f) momdollyo yop chagi
g) momdollyo huryo chagi
h) momdollyo nakka chagi
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
96
i) momdollyo naeryo chagi
j) onmomdollyo yop chagi
k) onmomdollyo huryo chagi
l) onmomdollyo nakka chagi
m) onmomdollyo naeryo chagi"
“The momdollyo-chagi is often misunderstood so that it is called “dwit-chagi”(back kick),
“360 degrees dollyo-chagi”, “dwidolla-chagi”. And also the dollyochagi is sometimes called
5. Bandal chagi (dichotomy kick)
This is the medium style of the apchagi and dollyochagi. The fore sole or the foot back delivers a
kick by making a slant circle of movement.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
97
6. Bitureo chagi (twist kick)
1. If the right foot is kick from the wen apkubi (left side forward inflection) stance, the right
foot passes the front of body, as the knee is folded and raised as in the apchagi, toward
the left side of the body and then abruptly turns toward the right side, finally stretching
the knee to deliver a kick. The applied parts are the fore sole and the foot back.
2. The body also turns to the left side and then reverses to the right side.
The left foot as a pivot is the same as in the apchagi. The ankle will be slightly streched and the
knee slightly bent at the time of kicking.
7. Dwi chagi (back kick)
1. From the standing position, one lifts up the kicking leg and stretches it backward to
deliver a kick. The back is sole is used for the kick.
2. The ending of the kick is similar to the yopchagi.
3. The foot of the fore leg is used for the kick or that of the back leg can be also applied for
the kick after it is drawn closer to the fore leg. The former case is applied when the
opponent is distance while the latter when the opponent is closer to the attacker.
4. The eyes are directed toward the kicking side and the supporting leg may not stretch the
knee the ankle as in the yop chagi.
The upper part of the body leans more forward than in the yopchagi.
8. Ppodeo chagi (stretch kick)
1. This is similar to the ap chagi; the knee of kicking leg does not fold too much. The foot
is simply lifted up in the right front to deliver a kick by stretching.
2. Unlike the apchagi, the foot does not face upward, but simply moves forward by the
stretch of leg to counter the opponent’s advance. The kick mainly target below the trunk.
3. The entire sole is used for the attack of the trunk, but an attack with the back sole, by
crooking the ankle, may inflict a more powerful impact on the target. And it is also
possible to use the foot blade for a kick when the ankle is drawn closer to the supporting
leg.
4. When the groin is to be attacked, the toes will be straightened for a stretch kick.
The upper part of the body leans a little more backward than in the apchagi.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
98
9. Mireo chagi (pushing kick)
1. The way of kicking is the same as the yopchagi or the ppodeochagi (stretch…), but the
kicking is slowed down, merely pushing the target instead of inflicting a blow.
2. This is used especially when the target is nearer. Instead of inflicting a vital damage, this
technique is intended to throw down or push away the opponent.
The sole of foot is used for the kick.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
99
10. Nakka chagi (hooking kick)
1. When the opponent has evaded the kick at the moment of delivering a kick attack and
comes closer to the attacker, the kicking leg, which has missed and passed the target will
attack the back of the opponent’s head or the back by the force of folding the stretched
knee.
2. If a dollyochagi has missed the target, the kicking leg will instantly fold the knee,
delivering a kick by the heel.
11. Huryo chagi (thrashing kick)
1. The kicking leg will be lifted high up above the opponent’s head and inflict a kick, bringing
down the leg with the knee keeping stretched.
2. If the opponent is not so close, just lift up the folding knee to the center of the body and
then make a “naeryo chagi” by bringing down the foot.
3. When the opponent is near and the attacker’s leg is lifted up from the inner side of the
attacker, the “bakkat naeryo chagi” (outer…) is possible to be made. If the kicking leg is
lifted up from the outer side of the attacker, the “an naeryo chagi” (inner…) is possible.
The heel and the sole are used for this kick.
12. Naeryo chagi (downward kick)
1. The kicking leg will be lifted high up above the opponent’s head and inflict a kick, bringing
down the leg with the knee keeping stretched.
2. If the opponent is not so close, just lift up the folding knee to the center of the body and
then make a “naeryo chagi” by bringing down the foot.
3. When the opponent is near and the attacker’s leg is lifted up from the inner side of the
attacker, the “bakkat naeryo chagi” (outer…) is possible to be made. If the kicking leg is
lifted up from the outer side of the attacker, the “an naeryo chagi” (inner…) is possible.
The heel and the sole are used for this kick.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
100
13. An chagi (inner kick)
Just like the bandalchagi, this kick is executed by making the kicking foot draw a circle from
outside to inside. The back of foot blade is used for this technique, which is applied at the moment
of lifting up the foot before a naeryochagi or in the course of a pyojeok (target) chagi.
14. Bakkat chagi (outer kick)
The opposite way of anchagi. It is similar to a bitureo chagi, using the back to the foot. It is mainly
used in makki technique.
So far we have discussed some simple techniques of chagi, which use one foot on the ground in
maintaining the balance and the other moving in the air in delivering a kick against the opponent’s
bodily parts. It is generally said that the foot techniques (chagi) can exert the power three times
that of hand techniques (jireugi). However, if the foot techniques are not swift and accurate enough,
their impact power becomes meaningless and are likely to cause unbalance of the body and the
opponent’s counterattack or evasion. Also certain unsuccessful kick will result in consuming the
attacker’s energy almost three times that of the opponent. Therefore, it is imperative to train hard
in mastering the foot techniques.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
101
There are various composite techniques to supplement those simple chagi techniques, which will
be explained in the following.
12.1 Composite Techniques of Chagi
Japko chagi (holding kick) It is sometimes necessary to hold the opponent by the dobok or
the bodily parts before delivering a kick in an attempt to bear down the opponent, thus
doubling the effect of the blow.
1. Japko ap chagi (holding front kick)
2. Japko yop chagi (holding side kick)
3. Japko dollyo chagi (holding round house kick)
4. Japko bandal chagi (holding dichotomy kick)
5. Japko bitureo chagi (holding twist kick)
6. Japko nakka chagi (Japko hooking chagi)
Kullo chagi (stamping kick) Mainly from the dwitkubi (backward inflection) stance (or
juchumseogi, beomseogi, apseogi), one raises the fore foot, and makes it stamp on the
ground, moving the body forward by the impellent force, and as soon as the back foot
follows the fore foot, landing on the ground, he or she makes the fore foot deliver a kick.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
102
This technique is intended to deceive the opponent pretending to attack at the first movement
but actually the attack comes a moment later.
1. Kullo ap chagi
2. Kullo yop chagi
3. Kullo dollyo chagi
4. Kullo bandal chagi
5. Kullo bitureo chagi
6. Kullo ppodeo chagi
7. Kullo mireo chagi
8. Kullo nakka chagi
9. Kullo naeryo chagi, etc.
15. Twio Chagi (jumping kick) Ildan Chuk (single stage jumping kick)
This kicking technique involves using one foot to kick while simultaneously jumping up into the
air. While it can be executed from the moaseogi stance, it's generally more effective from the
dwitkubi stance. This stance positions the feet wide apart, either fore and back (similar to
juchumseogi and nachuwoseogi) or left and right (similar to beomseogi and apjuchumseogi),
allowing both feet to push off the ground simultaneously for the jump. It's possible to initiate the
jump by pushing off with either the front or back foot alone.
When the kick is executed using the front foot, it is referred to as the "twio chagi" or jump kick. If
the kick is performed with the back foot while the body turns towards the front during the jump,
it's known as the "twio bakkuwo chagi" or jump altering kick. When the body turns backward
while jumping and the kick is delivered by the back foot, it's termed as the "twio
banmomdollyochagi" or jump half-turning kick.
Types of jump kicks: In a broad sense, the jump kicks are classified into 3 categories but there are
many detailed types of jump kick.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
103
Types of twio chagi
a) Twio ap chagi
b) Twio yop chagi
c) Twio dollyo chagi
d) Twio bandal chagi
e) Twio mireo chagi
f) Twio bakkuwo ap chagi
g) Twio bakkuwo yop chagi
h) Twio bakkuwo dollyo chagi
i) Twio bakkuwo bandal chagi
j) Twio bakkuwo mireo chagi
k) Twio momdollyo yop chagi
l) Twio momdollyo nakka chagi
m) Twio momdollyo huryo chagi
n) Twio momdollyo naeryo chagi, etc.
16. Dubal dangseong chagi (two feet alternate kick)
After the body jumps up in the air, two feet perform kicks alternately. The back foot kicks first
and the fore foot later.The first kick is in the disguise or aims at a lower part, and the later kick
must kick the target accurately and higher.
The dubal dangseong chagi can be performed either by advancing forward to reach the
distanced opponent or by jumping up higher to reach a high target.
Types of dubal dangseong
a) Dubal dangseong ap chagi
b) Dubal dangseong yop chagi
c) Dubal dangseong dollyo chagi
d) Dubal dangseong bandal chagi
e) Dubal dangseong mireo yop chagi, etc.
17. Modum chagi (joint feet kick)
Jumping up in the air, one joins the two feet close and make them kick the same target at a time.
When jumping up, the two feet are drawn closer to push up the body.
Types of modumbal kick
a) Modumbal ap chagi
b) Modumbal yop chagi
c) Modumbal dollyo chagi
d) Modumbal bandal chagi
e) Modumbal mireo yop chagi
f) Modumbal mireo ap chagi, etc.
18. Kawi chagi (scissors kick)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
104
As in the modumbal chagi, the two feet kick two targets at a time by separating the feet from each
other.
Types of kawi chagi
a) Kawi ap chagi
b) Kawi yop chagi
c) Kawi dollyo chagi
d) Kawi mireo ap chagi
e) Kawi mireo yop chagi, etc.
19. Kodeup chagi (repeated kick)
A single leg can similarly execute more than two kicks. Typically, the initial kick targets lower
regions, while the subsequent one targets the trunk or the face. Nevertheless, successive kicks may
be aimed at the same target. The primary kick serves mainly to deceive the opponent, while the
second kick must be executed flawlessly to overpower them. The kodeup chagi can be further
categorized into three types: (a) kodeup chagi, (b) kodeup yop chagi, and (c) kodeup dollyo chagi.
Types of kodeup chagi
a) Kodeup ap chagi
b) Kodeup yop chagi
c) Kodeup dollyo chagi
20. Sokkeo chagi (mixed kick)
A single foot executes more than two kicking techniques. When delivering the second kick, the
foot momentarily descends but doesn't touch the ground; instead, it changes direction and applies
another kicking technique. An inexperienced kicker might mistakenly make the second kick after
the kicking foot touches the ground. To close the distance to the opponent, the supporting foot
slides closer to them as the second kick is executed. Occasionally, the kicking foot lightly touches
the ground to enhance the propulsive force before executing the second kick, quickly advancing
towards the opponent.
Types of sokkeo chagi:
a) Ap chago dollyo chagi
b) Ap chago yop chagi
c) Bitureo chagi hago (and) dollyo chagi
21. Yio chagi (successive kick)
The same chagi techniques is applied alternately by left and right foot.
22. Yio sokkeo chagi (successive mixed kick)
The different chagi techniques are applied when the left and right foot deliver kicks alternately.
23. Twio yio chagi (jumping successive kick)
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
105
While keeping the body in the air after jumping, one executes the same chagi technique alternately
by each foot.
24. Twio nomeo chagi (jumping over kick)
Jumping over the obstacle, one deliver a chagi technique. There are a high jump over short kicking
and a long jump over distanced kicking.
25. Ilja chagi (single line kick)
Pushing up the body in the air, one opens up the feet left and right on a single line toward each
target and delivers simultaneous kicks. Usually a yopchagi and a bitureochagi are applied
concurrently. Some calls this the kawichagi (scissor kick) but it is not correct. There are two types
of iljachagi
Supyong ilja chagi (horizontal ilja chagi): This is applied when the two targets are horizontally
placed.
Bikkyo ilja chagi (different height ilja chagi): The two targets are placed with different heights
from each other.
26. Dabanghyang chagi (multi direction kicks)
While the body is kept in the air, more than targets are kicked. Foot techniques are numerous, so
this is called the multi direction chagi. Applicable actions are both foot techniques and hand
techniques.
12.2 Teuksu Chagi
1. Wesanteul yop chagi (single hand wide open makki and yop chagi)
While executing a wesanteul makki with the arms, a yopchagi is simultaneously delivered. When
defending against a jireugi attack from the rear with an outer makki, one performs a yopchagi
simultaneously, accompanied by a jireugi using the other hand.
2. Pyojeok chagi (target kick)
By setting an imaginary target in the palm, one practices “an chagi” (inner kick) by the foot blade
or other.
13. Kkukki (inflecting)
1. Sonmok kkukki
2. Palkup kkukki
3. Mureup kkukki
One hand grabs foot back pivot, the other arc hand attacks knee.
Numgigi (throwing down)
1. Balkoryo numgigi
2. Baldeuryo numgigi
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
106
So far the Taekwondo techniques have been explained, although the techniques of Taekwondo
comprise only 6category, i.e. seogi, makki, jireugi, chigi, tzireugi and chagi, there are numerous
variations of those techniques and other composite techniques.
13.1 Special Poom
Actions witch have capacities attack and defense and preparation poom. Also capacities of
physical education (to develop muscular strength, to increase movable range). Those pooms are
called “Teuksu Poom”.
1. Khun-doltzeogi (bigger hinge)
Usage: Defense, attack, preparation action
The hand on the waist keeps its base part facing upward.
The fist crossing the solar plexus line forms the shape of an oppeun-jumeok (turned-
over fist).
The arm laid in front of the solar plexus keeps itself slightly aloof from the body trunk
2. Jageun doltzeogi (smaller hinge)
The hand on the waist keeps its base part facing upward.
A hammer-fist is piled up right over the top of the other fist. There is a small gap between
the two fists (their base parts face each other in the form of a turned over fist).
3. Hakdari doltzeogi (crane leg hinge)
4. Hakdari doltzeogi (crane leg hinge)
In an apkubi stance, two hands are stuck to one side of the waist.
The hand on the side of the rear foot comes downward and the one on the side of the fore
foot goes upward, respectively keeping themselves unfolded and their base parts directed
toward the front side.
The two hands are pushed up diagonally to be placed in front of the face (forehead).
The finger-tips of both hands are directed upward from the diagonal line.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
107
5. Taesan milgi (mountain pushing)
In a beomseogi stance, the batangson (palm hand) is placed in front of the chest, keeping
the finger-tips on the fore-foot side below and those on the rear-foot side above.
The batangsons are simultaneously pushed forward, making the upper hand stop its
movement in front of the philtrum with its elbow straightly unfolded and the lower hand stops
its movement in front of the lower abdomen with its elbow unfolded.
6. Nalgae phyogi (wing spreading)
From the overlapped hands in a moaseogi stance, the hands are pulled up to the front
of the chest.
Two hands are opened apart from each other so that the palms may look like pushing
outward respectively to the sides of shoulders.
Finger-tips are kept facing upward and the elbow straightly unfolded sideward.
14. Neumgigi (throwing down)
While Taekwondo is often associated with its impressive kicks and acrobatics, it encompasses a
wide range of self-defense techniques beyond just kicks. These include joint locks, sweeps, and
throws, which can effectively thwart an opponent's attack. However, the teaching and inclusion of
these techniques in Taekwondo training can vary among different schools or Dojangs. Some may
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
108
incorporate them into the regular curriculum, while others reserve them for higher-ranking students
or belts.
In martial arts terminology, a throw refers to a grappling technique aimed at destabilizing the
opponent, lifting, and/or hurling them to the ground, often followed by a "finishing technique."
While certain martial arts like Judo, Jujitsu, and Tang So Do are renowned for their emphasis on
throws, most styles include some form of throwing technique in their arsenal.
Throws typically involve a rotational motion, with the practitioner executing the throw while
disengaging from the opponent, landing balanced and on their feet afterward. This differs from a
takedown, where both individuals end up on the ground. Additionally, throws can lead to a top
position, where the practitioner maintains contact with the opponent after the throw. Some
throwing techniques, known as sacrifice throws, involve putting oneself in a potentially
disadvantageous position, such as on the ground, to execute the throw effectively.
14.1 Neomgigi: Throwing down or tripping up
14.1.1 Georeo-neomgigi: Tripping-up Technique or Sweeping Technique
Georeo-neomgigi
Deureo-neomgigi
Balmok-georeo-neomgigi / Ankle Tripping-up Technique
Ogeum-georeo-neomgigi /Inner Knee Tripping-up Technique
14.1.2 Deureo-neomgigi: Throwing-down Technique
Ogeum-deureo-neomgigi / Inner Knee Throwing?down Technique
14.2 Types of Throws
Throws in martial arts are often named based on either the point of contact or the effect they have
on the opponent. Examples include "hip throw," "shoulder throw," and "wrist throw" based on the
point of contact, or "heaven and earth throw," "valley drop," and "body drop" based on their effect.
These throws can be categorized into six main groups:
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
109
1. Hand Techniques: Throws that primarily utilize the hands to off-balance and throw the
opponent.
2. Leg Techniques: Throws that involve the legs to trip or sweep the opponent.
3. Hip Techniques: Throws that leverage the hips to unbalance and throw the opponent.
4. Shoulder Techniques: Throws that use the shoulders to control and throw the opponent.
5. Sacrifice Throws to the Rear: Techniques where the practitioner puts themselves in a
disadvantageous position to execute the throw effectively, throwing the opponent to the
rear.
6. Sacrifice Throws to the Side: Similar to rear sacrifice throws, but executed to throw the
opponent to the side.
14.2.1 Shoulder Throw
A shoulder throw involves throwing an opponent over the shoulder.
Shoulder Throw
14.2.2 Leg throws, reaps, and trips
In a leg reap, the attacker uses one of their legs to reap one or both of their opponent’s legs off the
ground. Generally the opponent’s weight is placed on the leg that is reaped away. This coupled
with the attacker controlling the opponent’s body with their hands causes the opponent to fall over.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
110
Leg Sweep
Similar to a leg reap, is the leg hook. This technique, involves hooking and lifting the attacking
leg, instead of a reaping action. In a leg reap, the move is smooth, but in a hook, the opponent's
leg is pulled up first, and then swing away, tripping the opponent and making him fall.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
111
Leg Hook
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
112
14.2.3 Hip Throws
A hip throw involves using the thrower’s hip as a pivot point, by placing the hip in a lower
position than an opponent’s center of gravity. There are several types of hip throws such as O
Goshi, which is often taught first to novices.
Hip Throw
14.2.4 Sacrifice Throws
Circular Throw
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
113
Sacrifice throws require the thrower to move into a potentially disadvantageous position in order
to be executed, such as falling to the ground. The momentum of the falling body adds power to the
throw and requires comparatively little strength, compared to the effect.
14.2.5 Pick-ups
Pickups involve lifting the opponent off the ground and then bringing them down again.
Pickup Throw
114
15. Sparring-Gyoroogi
Sparring is a fundamental aspect of training across various martial arts disciplines. While its exact
format may vary, sparring essentially involves freestyle fighting with enough rules or agreements
in place to minimize injuries.
Despite some perceptions of sparring being a recent addition or more of a sport than a traditional
martial arts practice, its roots trace back to the earliest days of human combat readiness. It's about
being prepared for future conflicts, dating back to the earliest instances of individuals returning
home after confrontations.
To grasp the essence of sparring, it's crucial to recognize that "getting hit" isn't always as
significant as it's made out to be. While there's a physical aspect to it, the emotional impact plays
a larger role, often stemming from fears of domination or dislike. This emotional response can
cause individuals to tense up during sparring, making each hit more damaging.
Sparring serves as a tool to refine self-defense skills and other martial arts techniques. Reacting
poorly to getting hit, such as stopping, getting angry, or becoming overly competitive, isn't
conducive to effective self-defense. Accidental blows during sparring present opportunities for
growth and learning, rather than reasons for dramatic reactions.
Martial arts skills are meant to be reliable in challenging situations, whether for self-defense,
combat, or managing conflicts in social settings. If skills falter when faced with adversity, they
haven't truly been mastered.
Sparring provides an opportunity to test techniques learned in the training hall under realistic
conditions. It exposes practitioners to different body types and movement patterns, helping them
adapt and gain confidence in their techniques.
While sparring prioritizes safety and enjoyment, it also imparts valuable lessons that can be life-
saving. Practitioners learn timing, movement, attack strategies, and resilience in the face of
adversity. Regular sparring helps individuals become comfortable with taking hits, moving
efficiently, and maintaining composure under pressure.
Ultimately, sparring is both a practical training tool and a source of enjoyment. It challenges
practitioners physically and mentally, offering continual opportunities for improvement and
learning. Like dancing or singing, people engage in sparring because they love it, finding
fulfillment in the constant evolution and growth it fosters.
Different schools may observe different sets of rules for a sparring match according to their needs,
the ability of the student, and the particular federation or association witch the school is affiliated
to.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
115
Here we have posted a “basic” set of rules to follow when sparring. Remember when you visit
other schools, to review and understand their rules before a match. For an official Olympic and
WTF set of rules, read below.
15.1 Basic Sparring Rules
All students are subject to the rules of free sparring and point sparring. Failure to adhere to
these rules is cause for dismissal and termination of the match. No exceptions are permitted
to the sparring rules.
Sparring is undertaken at students-own risk and in accordance with the terms and conditions
of the school membership agreement.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
116
Approved safety equipment must be used at all times. The following safety equipment is
required: Protective footwear, protective hand wear, head guard, shin guards, mouth guard,
groin guard (men only), and chest protectors.
Sparring is allowed only in the presence, and with the permission, of an instructor.
Sparring is LIGHT CONTACT only. It is important to remember that students are training
partners and not opponents. Techniques to the head guard are to be made only with a
controlled light tapping, sufficient to indicate a point but insufficient to cause the recipient’s
head to move in any way.
No full-contact sparring will take place under any circumstances.
Point sparring consists of rounds lasting between one and two minutes, or by the
accumulation of five to ten points. Points are awarded in the following manner:
Controlled valid attack or simple kick to trunk: One point.
Controlled kick to the body with a turning kick: Two points.
Controlled kick to the head: Three points.
Controlled turning kick to the head: Four points.
Free sparring consists of one or a series of rounds performed in a nonstop manner. The
purpose of free sparring is to build confidence and improve skills.
Students will never be forced to spar with anyone. At any time before or during a match or
round, students may, without reservation, bow out of the match by indicating to both the
training partner and the instructor that they do not care to participate.
15.2 Olympic and WTF Taekwondo Rules
Olympic sparring competitions are fought between two “opponents” within the same weight
category (to see the WTF list of weights categories click here), in a square-shaped, matted area
normally made of a high-density foam rubber. This Contest Area shall measure 8m x 8m using the
metric system. The Contest Area shall have a flat surface without any obstructing projections, and
be covered with an elastic and not slippery mat. The Contest Area may also be installed on a
platform 0.6-1m high from the base, if necessary. The outer part of the Boundary Line shall be
inclined at a gradient of less than 30 degrees, for the safety of the contestants.
117
Olympic Sparring Zone Layout
Boundary lines: B 1-4; Corner Judges: J-1, J-2, J-3; Center Referee: R; Coach (Red/Hong): C-
R; Coach (Blue/Chung): C-B; Team Doctor: DOC; Commission Doctor: Doctor; Instant Video
Replay Review Jury: IVR; Technical Delegate & Competition Supervisor Board: TD & CSB.
Taekwondo 2012-04-03_Competition_Rules
Every competitor must wear a standardized head guard, mouth guard, trunk-protector (Hogu),
shin guards and wrist guards. Other protection equipment is optional.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
118
For colored belt matches, each bout consists of three rounds, with each round lasting one minute
and a 30-second break between rounds. In contrast, black belt rounds extend to two minutes with
a one-minute interval between them. Throughout the round, action remains continuous, and judges
assign points based on the technique's strength, style, and point of contact.
Certain restrictions apply to ensure safety and fair play. Punches to the head are prohibited, as are
many types of jumping spinning kicks. Additionally, attacking below the waist or while a
competitor is on the ground is not allowed. Violating these rules results in the annulment of the
perpetrator's scores and may lead to disqualification.
As per the new World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) regulations, points are awarded using a 1-2-
3-4 point system, with points distributed as follows:
Legal Scoring Areas:
Body: The blue or red colored area of the body protector.
Head: The area above the collar bone (i.e. whole part of the head including both ears and
the back of the head).
Points shall be awarded when permitted techniques are delivered accurately and powerfully to
the legal scoring areas of body and accurately to the legal scoring areas of head. The valid points
are divided as follows:
One (1) point for a valid attack on trunk protector.
Two (2) points for a valid turning kick to the trunk protector.
Three (3) points for a valid kick to the head.
Four (4) points for a valid turning kick to the head.
WTF Competition Rules Interpretation May 11 2015
http://m.worldtaekwondo.org/rules-wt/rules.html
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
119
Click above for a complete set of the official WTF Olympic Taekwondo competition rules
interpretation (in force as of 5/11/2015).
15.2.1 Basics
There will be men’s and women’s competition with four weight classes in each. Weight
categories may vary according to each tournament.
The match consists of three rounds of two minutes each. The rounds are separated by one-
minute breaks.
At least two of the three judges must register a strike in order for the athlete to be awarded
points.
Knockdowns are followed by a 10-count.
15.2.2 Penalties
Three penalty points result in an automatic disqualification.
There are two types of penalties:
Kyong-go: A warning that counts as a half-point penalty.
Gam-jeom: A more serious offense that results in a one-point penalty.
Here are some actions contestants can be penalized for:
https://olympics.com/en/featured-news/know-your-sport-taekwondo-rules-scoring-equipment
The score is calculated from all three rounds. If any one competitor achieves a lead of seven points
then the match is stopped and he is declared a winner. Likewise, if one Taekwondo competitor
reaches twelve points, he is declared the winner. In the event of a three round ‘tie’, a fourth ‘sudden
death’ round is fought, after a one minute rest.
We can check an Official WTF Taekwondo Competition Rules video.
World Taekwondo's New Competition Rules - YouTube
120
16. Sparring Gear
Sparing gear is used to avoid injury.
Headguard Sizing
Chart
Handguard Sizing Chart
Foot protector size
chart
Chest Protector- Hogu
Size
Head
Circumfere
nce
Size
Knuckle
Width
Size
Foot
Measurement
Size
Width
Length
Child
Under 18"
PeeWee
Under 2 ¾"
CH04
6 ½" to 7"
X-Small
(1)
26 ½"
15 ½"
Small
18"-19"
Child
2 ¾" to 3
1/8"
CH06
7" to 7 3/8"
Small
(2)
30"
16"
Medium
19"-20"
Small
3 1/8" to 3
3/8"
CH08
7 3/8" to 8"
Medium
(3)
31 ½"
17 ½"
Large
20"-22"
Medium
3 3/8" to 3
5/8"
CH10
8" to 8 5/8"
Large
(4)
35"
18"
X-Large
22"-23"
Large
3 5/8" to 3
¾"
07
8 5/8" to 9 ½"
X-Large
(5)
37"
20
X-Large
Up to 4"
09
9 ½" to 10"
Measure around the
largest part of the head.
Measure across palm of
hand.
11
10" to 10 ¾"
Length should equal the
distance from the 2nd-to-top
rib to just above groin.
13
10 ¾" to 11
½"
121
17. One Step Sparring
"One Step Sparring, is a pre-arranged and controlled exercise, learned in order to demonstrate a
defensive technique. The attacker only takes one step throwing one punch, hence the name “one
step sparring, while the defender retaliates with either a block, a hand, a foot technique, or a
combination or succession of all of these. The response varies depending on which number is
called. Each One Step Sparring exercise is unique, but they all begin the same way (see bellow).
One step sparring seems to have different rules where ever you go, and the combinations are
endless. Here are the 1-10 one step sparring exercises we practice at the SafeKids USA/Blue
Dragon Taekwondo School:
17.1 Getting Ready
To begin, the participants will stand face to face in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), then, they will bow
to each other (Kyung Neh), measure distance and return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi):
122
17.2 One Step Sparring #1
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender steps to the right into a 45° angle,
and simultaneously performing a left outside block (Bakkat Makki), followed by a right fist
waist high punch (Momtong Jireugi), a left fist waist high punch (Momtong Jireugi), and
a right fist face punch (Olgul Jireugi), Keup.
3. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
123
17.3 One Step Sparring #2
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender steps 45° to the right, simultaneously
performing a left open hand strike (Han Sonnal Momtong Chigi) and a Right open hand
neck strike (Han Sonnal Mok Chigi), Keup.
3. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
124
17.4 One Step Sparring #3
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender steps 45° to the right, simultaneously
deflecting and grabbing the attackers wrist, with his/hers left hand.
3. While holding the wrist firmly, the defender will perform a right open hand strike to the
attackers forearm (Han Sonnal Momtong Chigi).
4. With the wrist still secured, the defender will then perform an open hand neck strike (Mok
Chigi) with the right hand, while pulling on the wrist in the opposite direction to accentuate
the strike, Keup.
5. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
125
17.5 One Step Sparring #4
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender steps 45° to the right, simultaneously
performing an outside block (Momntong Maki) and a punch to the soloplexus (Momntong
Jireugi), Keup.
3. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
126
17.6 One Step Sparring #5
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender steps 45° to the right, simultaneously
performing an open hand outside block (Sonal Momtong Maki) and a strike with the right
elbow to the soloplexus (Palkup Momtong Chigi), Keup.
3. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
127
17.7 One Step Sparring #6
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender steps 45° to the right, simultaneously
deflecting and grabbing the attackers wrist, with his/hers left hand.
3. While holding the wrist firmly, the defender will perform a right open hand strike to the
attackers forearm (Han Sonnal Momtong Chigi).
4. Next a strike with the right elbow to the soloplexus (Palkup Momtong Chigi).
5. Finishing with a right hand back fist to the face (Deung Jumeok Momtong Chigi), Keup.
6. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
128
17.8 One Step Sparring #7
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender takes half a step back and at the same
time, intercepts and raises the punch with his/hers right hand.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
129
3. Then the defender will perform a side kick (Yop Chagi) to the middle section of attackers
body.
4. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
130
17.9 One Step Sparring #8
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender steps 45° to the left, and
simultaneously performs a left palm strike (Batangson Palmok Momtong Chigi) to the
attackers punching hand, and a palm strike to the attacker face (Batangson Olgul Chigi)
with the right hand.
3. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
131
17.10 One Step Sparring #9
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender takes half a step back and performs
a side kick to the attackers advancing knee (Moreup Yop Chagi).
3. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi).
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
132
17.11 One Step Sparring #10
1. Starting in a ready stance (Jumbi Seogi), the attacker will perform a front stance, low block
(Ap Kubi Arae Makki) and Keup.
2. At the defenders command (Keup), the attacker will advance into a front stance (Ap Kubi),
middle punch (Momtong Jireugi), while the defender takes a half step in with the right foot,
and performs a right outside block (Bakkat Maki), continuing the motion with a spin, and
ending with a back side kick (Dwi Bahro Chagi) to the attacker’s middle section.
3. Both the attacker and the defender hold positions, until the “go back” (Bahro) command is
given, then return to ready stance (Jumbi Seogi)."
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
133
18. Poomse
A Poomse refers to a sequence of predetermined Taekwondo movements, comprising a mix of
stances, blocks, strikes, and kicks. The specific forms practiced depend on the affiliation of the
Taekwondo School. For instance: WTF schools, typically practice Taeguk forms. ITF schools
follow the practice of the 24 forms developed by General Choi. ATA schools engage in forms
created by ATA's Master Instructor and his associates during the 1970s.
Each organization has its set of forms, and practitioners learn and practice the forms corresponding
to their school's affiliation.
Blue Dragon TKD students performing Poomse Taegeuk Il Jang during Testing 11/10/12
During the execution of a Poomse, a Taekwondo practitioner simulates combat against imaginary
opponents, defending against attacks from various directions. Each Poomse, whether it's the WTF
forms (Taegeuk 1-8), traditional forms (Palgwe 1-8), or the nine Black Belt forms (from Koryo to
Ilyo), typically begins with defensive blocking techniques followed by counterattacks.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
134
Repetition is key to mastering a Poomse to the point where it can be performed effortlessly, without
conscious thought. It's only after practicing a form hundreds of times that a student begins to
comprehend its deeper meaning.
The origins of Poomses can be traced back to the Chinese oracle book, the 'I Ching.' This book
features 64 hexagrams, each composed of two sets of three lines, representing Yin and Yang. In
Korean, the unity of Yin and Yang is referred to as Tae-guk, which explains the term Poomse
Taegeuk. The eight trigrams together are known as Pal-gwe, as in Poomse Palgwe.
It's worth noting that there are two types of Poomse or forms: traditional forms and standard forms.
While the Blue Dragon Taekwondo School focuses on teaching and practicing traditional forms,
standard forms are typically performed in competitions.
Taegeuk
Taegeuk, loosely translated as Great Eternity or Eternal Greatness, embodies ideals such as
pacifism, unity, creativity, future spirit, and eternity. Taegeuk Poomse integrates various elements
such as attack, defense, movement, and breathing control.
Palgwe
Palgwe, meaning Eight Powers of the Universe, is based on the conceptual powers of Heaven,
Mind, Fire, Thunder, Wind, Water, Mountain, and Earth. These forms aim to impart an
understanding of basic Taekwondo principles characterized by contrast, change, conflict, and
harmony.
Black Belt Forms
The Black Belt forms symbolize mastery attained after progressing through the ranks of
Taekwondo. The color black signifies the absorption of all knowledge and training from previous
ranks, culminating in mastery of the martial art.
“The tree has reached maturity and overcome darkness. It must now begin to plant seeds for the
future.”
19. Striking and Breaking
The break-test is one of the core elements of Taekwondo, alongside sparring, style forms or
Poomse, and self-defense. It serves as a milestone for advancing to the next Geup or belt level and
is a mandatory component of the black belt examination. Moreover, it is often featured in
Taekwondo demonstrations and exhibitions.
Breaking objects is an effective method for honing concentration, power, focus, speed, and
precision on inanimate targets without risking injury to oneself or others. However, it's crucial to
emphasize the importance of proper technique and staying within one's limits to prevent potential
injury, which could even be permanent.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
135
Engaging in object-breaking practice underscores the realization that the human body itself is a
formidable weapon. It also instills the importance of exercising caution, respect, control, and
discipline when training with a partner.
Wood is the most commonly used material for breaking techniques due to its ease of breakage
with either hand or foot. Other materials include bricks, concrete blocks, tiles, and sometimes
even baseball bats.
Breaking objects can be performed using any rigid part of the body, though the hand and foot are
the most common in Taekwondo. Techniques can also involve the elbow, knee, and even the
head.
When attempting to break an object, it's advisable to start with lighter materials and gradually
progress to thicker ones. Begin with techniques and materials you feel confident with, and focus
on executing your techniques as taught. Maintaining relaxation during the execution of breaking
techniques is essential. Additionally, focusing a few inches behind the point of impact can aid in
achieving a clean break.
Here are some additional considerations for breaking boards in Taekwondo:
Dry boards are typically more brittle than wet ones and will break more easily. It's
important to factor in the condition of the board when attempting a break.
If a board does not break upon impact, a significant force is transmitted back to your body
for a relatively long duration. This can result in pain and potential injury, so it's essential
to exercise caution.
Breaking boards along the grain makes it much easier. The direction of the grain can
influence the ease of breaking, so it's advisable to align your technique accordingly.
Ensure that the person holding the board maintains a firm grip on it. If the board moves
during your technique, it can disrupt your motion and diminish the effectiveness of your
technique. Additionally, this movement can cause injury to yourself or the board holder.
Consider other factors such as the angle of strike and the size of the target area. These
factors can affect the success of the break and should be taken into account when planning
your technique.
136
20. The Science behind a Taekwondo
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art characterized by its emphasis on high kicks, fast and spinning
techniques, and dynamic movements. The science behind Taekwondo involves principles from
biomechanics, physiology, psychology, and even physics. Here's a breakdown of the science
behind Taekwondo:
1. Biomechanics: Biomechanics is the study of the mechanics of human movement. In
Taekwondo, biomechanical principles are essential for understanding how to generate
power, speed, and precision in techniques. This involves the study of joint movements,
muscle activation patterns, and the application of force. For instance, research has shown
that proper alignment and coordination of the body can optimize the delivery of kicks and
punches, maximizing their effectiveness [2].
2. Physiology: Physiology is the study of how the body functions. Taekwondo training
involves aerobic and anaerobic exercises, which improve cardiovascular health, endurance,
strength, and flexibility. Additionally, the physiological adaptations that occur during
training, such as increased muscle mass and improved neuromuscular coordination,
contribute to enhanced performance [3].
3. Psychology: Psychology plays a crucial role in Taekwondo, influencing aspects such as
concentration, confidence, motivation, and mental resilience. Mental skills training,
including visualization, goal setting, and arousal regulation techniques, can help athletes
perform at their best under pressure [4]. Moreover, understanding the psychological
aspects of combat and opponent analysis can provide a competitive edge in sparring and
competition.
4. Physics: Physics principles underlie many aspects of Taekwondo techniques. For example,
Newton's laws of motion explain how force is generated and transferred during kicks and
punches. The concept of leverage is employed to maximize the impact of strikes, while the
conservation of angular momentum explains the mechanics of spinning techniques like the
tornado kick. Moreover, understanding concepts such as velocity, acceleration, and
trajectory helps practitioners refine their timing and precision [5].
These are a starting point for understanding the scientific principles underlying Taekwondo.
Further research in these areas can deepen your understanding of the science behind this martial
art.
20.1 The Physics behind a Break
Breaking boards or cement blocks in martial arts requires more than just brute strength. The ability
to break these objects relies heavily on technique, speed, and the manipulation of force, as well as
understanding basic principles of physics [6].
One fundamental concept is based on Newton's second law of motion, which states that force
equals mass times acceleration. Essentially, the shorter the contact time with the board, the greater
the force exerted, making it easier to break. Achieving this requires proper technique and precision.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
137
When striking a board, the force applied creates a shearing moment that must exceed the board's
breaking point. The torque produced by this force, especially when hitting the board at its center,
can lead to its breakage [7].
Considerations such as board thickness and the distribution of force are also crucial. Thicker
boards are harder to break, and multiple smaller boards may be used instead. Additionally,
understanding impulse – the product of force and time – is essential. Increasing the time of impact,
such as by hitting a haystack instead of a brick wall, decreases the force exerted over a longer
duration.
In martial arts, the key to successful board-breaking lies in precise technique, speed, and power.
Striking with fluidity and accuracy, followed by a quick withdrawal to maximize kinetic energy,
is essential. This requires rigorous practice under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
To sum up, the secret to breaking boards or cement blocks lies in:
Decreasing the time of impact to increase the force.
Following through with each strike to maximize power.
Striking quickly and powerfully while maintaining proper technique.
Withdrawing quickly after impact to maximize kinetic energy.
Practicing diligently under supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.
To achieve powerful kicks in Taekwondo, it's essential to understand and apply the principles of
physics. By leveraging concepts like force, momentum, and angular momentum, practitioners can
enhance the effectiveness of their techniques. For this, "Use the twisting torque of your shoulders,
waist, and the core of your body to amplify the rotational force of the strike. The more you use
your entire body in a short duration of time in the martial arts technique; you are capturing the
laws of physics in real life.
Impulse = TIME x force (Boxing Gloves)
Impulse = time x FORCE (Bare-knuckles)
Size no longer matters. It is all about using the right technique and making the most of your ‘size.’
You can break boards and concrete blocks easily, if you master the process of using force in
motion. It’s not a secret; do not believe advertisements and ‘strength’ pills. This is something you
can learn in a high school textbook or in Taekwondo class.
Martial artists must know these laws to master legendary techniques.
To see physics in action, check Sabumnim Hale’s breaking technique, to go there, click on the
image below."
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
138
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art. It combines combat and self-defense techniques with sport and
exercise. It has been an Olympic sport since 2000
Force = MA
Round Kick (Spinning Kick): The round kick is a fundamental technique in Taekwondo, known
for its power and versatility. To execute this kick effectively, practitioners utilize the twisting
torque generated by the shoulders, waist, and core. By incorporating the entire body into the
movement, they amplify the rotational force of the strike, increasing its impact. The key to a
powerful round kick lies in harnessing momentum and delivering the strike with speed and
precision. The more momentum, the harder the kick.
Axe Kick: The axe kick relies on overcoming inertia to generate momentum for the strike. By
lifting the leg high and snapping it down at the point of impact, practitioners maximize the potential
energy stored in the raised leg. This technique demonstrates the principles of potential energy,
which is directly proportional to mass, acceleration due to gravity, and height. The higher the leg
is extended, the greater the energy it can deliver upon impact.
Potential Energy = Mass x Acceleration due to gravity x Height.
Pushing Kicks vs. Snapping Kicks: Taekwondo kicks can be categorized into pushing kicks and
snapping kicks, each serving different purposes. Pushing kicks, such as the cut kick and front kick,
aim to move the opponent's body and apply force to cause acceleration. On the other hand,
snapping kicks, like the roundhouse kick, focus on transferring momentum and energy to the
opponent. The key to effective snapping kicks lies in power, which is the amount of energy
transferred in a specific time frame. By maximizing energy transfer during the kick, practitioners
can deliver powerful strikes with minimal force.
Pushing kicks are not intended for scoring points; instead, the primary scoring kicks are snapping
kicks. These kicks involve transferring momentum and energy to the opponent. The concept of
power in physics refers to the amount of energy that can be transferred within a specific timeframe.
Energy transfer is crucial in snapping kicks, particularly the roundhouse kick. When your foot
connects with a person, the kinetic energy from your foot is transferred to their chest protector.
Some of this energy converts into heat, some into sound, and some penetrates their body. It's the
energy that causes damage, not force or momentum.
Angular Momentum and Spinning Kicks: Spinning kicks rely on angular momentum, which
describes the tendency of an object to keep spinning. By conserving angular momentum and
adjusting their body shape, practitioners can control their speed and rotation during spinning kicks.
Tucking in limbs closer to the rotation axis allows for quicker spins, while extending limbs outward
increases rotational inertia and slows down rotation. By understanding these principles,
practitioners can optimize their spinning kicks for maximum speed and impact.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
139
In summary, physics plays a crucial role in understanding and executing Taekwondo techniques
effectively. By applying concepts such as force, momentum, potential energy, and angular
momentum, practitioners can enhance the power, speed, and precision of their kicks, ultimately
improving their performance in martial arts.
20.1.1 Key physics principles at play in Taekwondo
Taekwondo, like any martial art, is deeply rooted in biomechanics, which is the application of
principles from physics to the study of human movement. Understanding the physics behind
Taekwondo techniques is essential for practitioners to optimize their movements, increase power,
and improve efficiency. Here are some key physics principles at play in Taekwondo:
Force and Newton's Laws of Motion: Force is a fundamental concept in Taekwondo, as it is what
drives all movements and techniques. According to Newton's laws of motion:
First Law: An object remains at rest or in uniform motion unless acted upon by an external force.
In Taekwondo, this law is evident in the need to overcome inertia to initiate movement, such as
lifting the leg for a kick.
Second Law: Force equals mass times acceleration (F = ma). This law explains how the force
applied by a practitioner's kick or punch is influenced by their mass and the acceleration of their
movement.
Third Law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In Taekwondo, this law is
observed when a practitioner's strike generates a force that pushes against the target, causing it to
react.
Momentum: Momentum is the product of an object's mass and velocity and describes the quantity
of motion it possesses. In Taekwondo, practitioners aim to maximize momentum to deliver
powerful strikes. By increasing the speed of their movements (velocity) and utilizing their body's
mass effectively, they can generate greater momentum for their techniques.
Energy Transfer: Energy transfer is crucial in Taekwondo, particularly during striking
techniques. When a practitioner executes a kick or punch, kinetic energy from their movement is
transferred to the target upon impact. Understanding how to optimize energy transfer allows
practitioners to maximize the effectiveness of their strikes.
Angular Momentum: Spinning and jumping kicks in Taekwondo rely on angular momentum,
which describes the rotational motion of an object. By conserving angular momentum and
adjusting their body position, practitioners can control the speed and trajectory of their kicks.
Center of Mass and Balance: Maintaining balance and controlling the body's center of mass are
essential in Taekwondo to execute techniques efficiently and effectively. Practitioners must
understand how shifts in their center of mass affect stability and balance during movement.
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
140
Friction and Surface Interaction: Friction plays a role in footwork and stance transitions in
Taekwondo. Practitioners must consider the friction between their feet and the training surface to
execute movements smoothly and prevent slips.
Impulse: Impulse is the product of force and the time over which it acts and is crucial in generating
powerful strikes. By minimizing the contact time with the target and maximizing the force applied
during impact, practitioners can increase the impulse of their techniques.
Overall, an understanding of physics principles such as force, momentum, energy transfer, and
balance is essential for practitioners to optimize their techniques, generate power, and achieve
success in Taekwondo. By applying these principles effectively, practitioners can enhance their
performance and master the art of Taekwondo [8].
21. Effect on Arts Performance by Sine Wave and other components
General Choi observed certain elements in the Mathematical Sine Wave that he believed could be
applied to the stance movements in Tae Kwon-Do. This concept centers on a rise and fall motion
during stance transitions and technique execution. Additionally, it can be subtly observed in the
preparatory portions of some hand techniques. When combined with other aspects of stance and
technique performance, including Breath Control, Reaction Force vector control, Balance, and
Speed, this concept forms what I term Tae Kwon-Do Motion Physics [9]. Tae Kwon-Do Motion
Physics emphasizes the correct proportional relationship among specific aspects of technique and
stance execution. These include utilizing the Sine Wave motion, timing breath control, controlling
Reaction Force vector, maintaining balance, and optimizing speed. While Sine Wave is a central
component, it also incorporates elements of General Choi’s Theory of Power, as discussed in my
article ‘The Theory of Power – a General Martial Art Concept.’ By analyzing how Sine Wave and
Theory of Power components are executed, one can understand their impact on the execution of
the Art’s stances and techniques [10].
21.1 Sine wave
General Choi introduced the term ‘Sine Wave’ to describe a curving motion used to optimize
stance and technique execution. Although it does not continue perpetually like a Mathematical
Sine Wave, it ends upon completion of the stance or technique. This motion involves a preparatory
rise/fall and/or slight backward/forward ancillary motion as part of a stance’s movement or
technique execution. When properly applied, this partial Sine Wave motion augments fluidity and
helps achieve optimum force impact at technique-target contact.
However, it's important to execute Sine Wave correctly to avoid wasting energy, compromising
balance control, and affecting technique placement negatively. Overuse or exaggeration of the
motion can lead to flawed performance. General Choi's exaggeration during seminars aimed to
illustrate the nature of the movement's dynamics, but some practitioners mistook this exaggeration
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
141
for the norm. In reality, Sine Wave should be subdued to facilitate fluidity and rhythm in both Tul
and sparring scenarios.
21.2 Breath control
Breath control, involving the correct timing of inhale/exhale functions during Tae Kwon-Do
performance, is crucial for producing optimum force impact and facilitating stance shifting and
changing motion. Holding one’s breath or exhaling too soon can restrict body movement,
compromise technique execution, and waste energy. Coordination between breath control and
stance/technique execution phases is essential for rhythmical performance.
21.3 Balance
Maintaining exact equilibrium, both during movement (dynamic balance) and while remaining in
a stance (static balance), is vital for maximum impact. Balance is achieved by focusing on the
center of gravity and distributing body weight correctly. Stances that put more weight on one foot
require centering the gravity towards the weight-bearing foot. Proper balance ensures stability
during technique execution, prevents energy wastage, and maintains precise trajectory of the force
vector.
21.4 Speed
Speed acts as a force multiplier in Tae Kwon-Do performance, enhancing motion physics when
all other aspects are executed correctly. However, speed becomes a hindrance if any element of
performance is off. Harnessing speed effectively requires a balance between slow, correct practice
and gradually increasing speed.
21.5 Reaction force
Correct application of reaction force, based on Newton’s third law of motion, is another crucial
aspect of Tae Kwon-Do Motion Physics. This principle involves utilizing the reaction force from
preceding motions to augment technique impact power. Properly harnessing reaction force energy
contributes to precise technique placement and maximizes impact.
21.6 Energy Transfer
Energy transfer occurs during technique execution, involving the separation of the impact tool
from the target. This separation allows the technique’s energy to penetrate the target effectively,
redirecting force vectors or penetrating an opponent's body. Understanding energy transfer is
essential for optimizing technique effectiveness [1].
142
22. Taekwondo Terminology
"WHITE BASIC KOREAN
Hello / how are you: An Nyung Ha Sae Yo
Good bye (if you are leaving): An Nyung He
Gae Sae Yo
Good bye (if other is leaving): An Nyung He
Ga Sae Yo
Thank you: Kam Sa Ham Me Da: Kyung Nae
Bow to Flags: Kuk Gee Eh Dae Han Kyung Na
Bow to Master: Kuan Jang Nim Kkae Kyung
Nae
Mental concentration: Jung shin Tong Il
Tae Kwon Do School: Do Jang
Loyalty (School Word): Choong Sung
YELLOW BASIC KOREAN
Begin: Shee Jak
Stop: Ku Man
Sit down: An Ja
Stand up: Il A Suh
Sit Correctly: Ba Ro An Ja
Yes: Nae
No: A Ni Yo
Uniform: Do Bok
Belt: Ddee
YELLOW W/STRIPE BASIC KOREAN
Master: Kuan Jang Nim
Instructor: Sa Bum Nim
Sparring: Kye Ru Gee
Discipline: Hool Yeun
Hurry up: Bbal Lee Bbal Lee
GREEN BASIC KOREAN
Good / Fine: Jo Sum Me Da
Form: Poom Sae (Hyung)
Respect: Jon Kyung
Confidence: Ja Sin Kam
Focus: Cho Chum
Honesty: Joung Jik
GREEN W/STRIPE BASIC KOREAN
Try your hardest: No Riuk
Goal: Mok Pyo
Kindness: Jin Sil
BLUE BASIC KOREAN
Concentration: Jib Joong
Student: Hak Sang
Practice: Yun Sup
BLUE W/STRIPE BASIC KOREAN
Senior Belt: Sun Bae
Belt Test: Shim Sa
Victory: Pil Sung
Help each other: Hyup Dong
RED BASIC KOREAN
Humble: Kyum Son
Responsibility: Chaek Im
Pain: Go Tong
Friend: Chin Gu
Friendship: Woo Jung
BROWN BASIC KOREAN
You are welcome: Chun Man Eh Yo
Excuse me / Pardon me: Sil Lae Ham Me Da
Turn right: Woo Ro Dora
Turn Left: Jua Ro Dora
Turn around: Dwee Ro Dora
Black Belt: Yu Dan Ja
Patience: In Nae
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
143
BLACK BASIC KOREAN
Justice: Jung E
See You Later: Ddo Bop See Da
Flag: Kuk Gee
America: Mi Gook
Korea: Han Gook
American Flag: Mi Gook Gee
Korean Flag: Tae Guk Gee
Success: Sung Gomg
Martial art: Mu Sool
Martial artiest: Mu Sool In
KICKS (Cha-gee)
Front Stretching Kick: Ap Bbut A Ol Lee Gee
Side Stretching Kick: Yub Bbut A Ol Lee Gee
Front Kick: Ap Cha-gee
Cha-gee Side Kick: Yub Cha-gee
Roundhouse Kick: Doul-yeo Cha-gee
Axe Kick: Jjik A Cha-gee
Jumping Kick: Ddwee A Cha-gee
Jumping Front Kick: Ddwee A Ab Cha-gee
Jumping Side Kick: Ddwee A Yub Cha-gee
Jumping Roundhouse Kick: Ddwee A Doul-yeo Cha-gee
Jumping Axe Kick: Ddwee A Jjik Cha-gee
Back Swing Kick: Dwee Dol Yeo Cha-gee
Back Kick: Dwee Cha-gee
Front Kick, Side Kick: Ab Cha-gee Yub Cha-gee
Roundhouse Kick, Axe Kick: Doul-yeo Cha-
gee Jjik A Cha-gee
Roundhouse Kick, Back Swing Kick: Doul-yeo
Cha-gee Dwee Doul-yeo Cha-gee
Back Side Kick: Dwee Dol A Yub Cha-gee
Front Kick, Back Kick: Ab Cha-gee Dwee Cha-
gee
Half Moon Kick: Ban Dal Cha-gee
Pushing Front Kick: Mil A Ap Cha-gee
Combination Kick: Yeun Sok Cha-gee
Side Kick, Back Side Kick: Yub Cha-gee Dwee
Doul A Yub Cha-gee
Tornado Kick: Whye O Ree Cha-gee
Double Kick with One Leg: Han Bal Yi Dan
Cha-gee
Double Front Kick with One Leg: Han Bal Yi
Dan Ab Cha-gee
Double Side Kick with One Leg: Han Bal Yi
Dan Yub Cha-gee
Double Roundhouse Kick with One Leg: Han
Bal Yi Dan Doul Yue Cha-gee
Inside Out Roundhouse Kick: Be Teul A Cha-
gee (Gak Gee Cha-gee)
Half Tornado Kick: Ban Whye O Ree Cha-gee
Jump Back Side Kick: Ddwee A Dwee Doul A
Yub Cha-gee
Double Kick with Two Legs: Doo Bal Yi Dan
Cha-gee
Double Front Kick with Two Legs: Doo Bal Yi
Dan Ab Cha-gee
Hook Kick: Hoo Reu Cha-gee
Double Kick with Two Legs: Doo Bal Yi Dan
Cha-gee
Double Roundhouse Kick with Two Legs: Doo
Bal Yi Dan Doul Yue Cha-gee
Double Roundhouse Kick with Two Legs
Followed by Back Swing Kick: Doo Bal Yi
Dan Doul Yue Cha-gee Dwee Doul Yue
Half Tornado Kick Following by Back Swing Kick: Ban
Whye O Ree Cha-gee Dwee Doul Yue Cha-gee
Back Hook Kick: Dweea Dol A Hoo Reu Cha-
gee
Flying Kick: Nal Yeu Cha-gee
Roundhouse Kick and Back Swing Kick with
One Leg: Han BAL Doul Yue Cha-gee Dwee
Doul Yue Cha-gee
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
144
Tornado Kick Following By Back Swing
Kick: Ban Whye O Ree Cha-gee Dwee Doul
Yue Cha-gee
Sweep Kick: An ja Dwee Doul Rae Cha-gee
Jumping Back Swing Kick: Ddwee A Dwee
Doul Yue Cha-gee
Step Over Jumping Half Tornado Kick: Wyee
Bal Whye Juen Doul Yue Ch
BLOCKS (Mak-gee)
High (face) Block: Ul Gool Mak-gee
Inside Block: An Mak-gee
Outside Block: Backat Mak-gee
Down Block: A Rae Mak-gee
Two Hands Blocks (Up, Down): Du Son Mak-
gee
Two Hands High Block: Du Son Ul Gool Mak-
gee
Two Hands Down Block: Du Son A Rae Mak-
gee
Two Hands Outside Block (Spreading Block):
Hae Cheo Mak-gee
Knife Hand Block: Son Nal Mak-gee
Knife Hand High Block: Son Nal Ul Gool Mak-
gee
Knife Hand Inside Block: Son Nal An Mak-gee
Knife Hand Outside Block: Son Nal Ba Kkot
Mak-gee
Knife Hand Down Block: Son Nal A Rae Mak-
gee
Double Knife Hand Block: Du Son Nal Kuh
Dul A Mak-gee
High Block followed by Two Punches: Ul Gool
Mak-gee Doo Bun Ji Reo-gee
Inside Block followed by Two Punches: An
Mak-gee Doo Bun Ji Reo-gee
Outside Block followed by Two Punches:
Backat Mak-gee Doo Bun Ji Reo-gee
Down Block followed by two punches: A Rae
Mak-gee Doo Bun Ji Reo-gee
Scissors Block: Ga Wee Mak-gee
Palm Block (with Front and Back Stances): Ba
Tang Son Mak-gee
Palm Inside Block: Ba Tang Son An Mak-gee
Palm Down Block: Ba Tang Son A Rae Mak-
gee
Palm Upper Outside Block: Ba Tang Son Ba
Kkot Mak-gee
Half Moon Block: Ban Dal Mak-gee
Knife Hand High Block and a Body Punch with
one Hand: Han Son Nal Ul Gool Mak-gee Mom
Tong Ji Reo-gee
Knife Hand inside Block and a Body Punch
with one Hand: Han Son Nal An Mak-gee Mom
Tong Ji Reo-gee
Knife Hand outside Block and a Body Punch
with one Hand: Han Son Nal Backat Mak-gee
Mom Tong Ji Reo-gee
Knife Hand down Block and a Body Punch
with one Hand: Han Son Nal a Rae Mak-gee
Mom Tong Ji
Double Hand Block: Du Son Kuh Dul A Mak-
gee
STANCES, STABS, PUNCHES AND KICKS
STANCES (Suh-gee)
Attention Stance: Cha-Ryeo Suh-gee
Walking Stance: Ap Suh-gee
Ready Stance: Jun Be Suh-gee
Horse Stance: Ju Chum Suh-gee
Front Stance: Ap Gub-E Suh-gee
Back Stance: Dwee Gub-E Suh-gee
Twisted Stance: Koa Suh-gee
Tiger Stance: Bum Suh-gee
Kicking Stance: Bal Cha-gee Jun Be
Sparring Stance: Kyeo Ru Gee Chum Be
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
145
Return (back ready stance): Ba ro Relax Yeol
Jung Shio
STAB (Reo-gee)
Fingertips Body Stab: Son Kkut Mom Tong Jee
Reo-gee
Fingertips Neck Stab: Son Kkut Mouck Jee
Reo-gee
PUNCHES (Reo-gee)
Body Punch: Mon Tong Jee Reo-gee
One Time Punch: Han Bun Jee Reo-gee
Two Times Punch: Du Bun Jee Reo-gee
Three Times Punch: Sae Bun Jee Reo-gee
Chestnut Fist to the Body: Bam Ju Muk Mom
Tong Chee-gee
Back Fist Punch: Dung Ju Muk Chee-gee
Elbow Punch: Pal Gub Chee-gee
Side Punch: Yup Jee Reo-gee
STRIKE (Chee-gee)
Knife Hand Neck Strike: Son Nal Mok Chee-
gee
One knife hand high block, other knife hand
neck strike: Jae Be Poom Mok Chee-gee
Palm Strike: Ba Tang Son Chee-gee
Hammer Fist Strike: Mae Ju Muk Chee-gee
Claw Hand Strike: Jep Gae Son Chee-gee
Double Knife Hand Neck Strike: Doo Son Nal
Mok Chee-gee
Chestnut Fist to the Temple: Bam Ju Muk Guan
Ja Nouree Chee-gee
Palm Strike to Chin: Ba Tang Son Tuck Chee-
gee
Speak Hand Attack: Chul Sa Jan Chee-gee
ANATOMY
Head Mo-li
Face Ul Gool
Temple Guan Ja Nouree
Under Nose In Joong
Mouth Ip
Neck Mok
Body Mom-tong
Waist Huri
Arm, Elbow Pal Gub/Pal Ggum Chee
Forearm Pahl-mock
Wrist Pal Mok (Son-mock)
Hand Son
Fist Ju Muk
Knife Hand Son Nal
Fingertips Son-kut
Back Fist Dung Ju Muk
Hammer Fist Mae Ju Muk
Natural Hand Ba Tang Son
Chestnut Fist Bam Ju Muk
Claw Hand Jep Gee Son
Opened Fist Pyeon Ju Muk
Leg Dah-ree
Knee Moo-rub
Shin Jung Gang E
Foot Bahl
Bottom of Foot Bal Ba Dak
Ball of foot Jock Do (Ahp-chook)
Top of Foot Bal Dung
Instep Bahl-dung
Heel Bal Dwee Ggum Chee (Dwichook)
Knife Foot Bal Nal
Numbers
1 – Ha Na
2 – Dul
12 – Yol Dul
13 – Yol Set
40 – Ma Hun
50 – Shin
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
146
3 – Set
4 – Net
5 – Da Sut
6 – Yo Sut
7 – Il Gob
8 – Yo Dul
9 – A Hop
10 – Yol
11 – Yol Ha Na
14 – Yol Net
15 – Yol Da Sut
16 – Yol Yo Sut
17 – Yol Il Gob
18 – Yol YoDul
19 – Yol A Hob
20 – Su Mul
21 – Su Mul Ha Na
30 – Suh Run
60 – Ye Soon
70 – Il Hun
80 – Yo Dun
90 – A Hun
100 – Baek
200 – E Baek
300 – Sam
Baek
400 – Sa Baek
500 – O Baek
1st – el
2nd – e
3rd – sam
4th – sa
5th – o
6th – yuk
7th – chil
8th – pul
9th – koo
10th - sib
SPARRING TERMINOLOGIES
Attention Cha Ryeu
Bow Kyung Nae
Sparring Stance Kyu Ru Gee Jun Be
Begin Shee Jak
Stop Ku Man
Warning Kyung Go
Deduct Point Kam Jum
Continue Gae Sok
Face eachother Jua Woo Yang Woo (Ma Ju Bo Go)
Break Gal Yeu
Continue Gae Souk
Return to original position One Wee Chee
Blue Chung
Red Hong
1st Round Il Whea Jeon
2nd Round Yi Whea Jeon
3rd Round Sam Whea Jeon
Admission Ip Jang
Come Back to Position Won Wi Chi
Time Si Gan
Win Seoung
Referee Joo Sim
Judge Bu Sim
Protective Cup Nang Sim Ho Goo
Chest Protector Ga Sum Ho Goo"
The Fundamentals of Taekwando: with underlying Physics
147
23. References:
[1] B. D. Taekwondo, History of Taekwondo - SafeKids USA - Blue Dragon Taekwondo,
https://www.bluedragontkd.net/learn-taekwondo/history/.
[2] Y. Jin and Y. J. Park, A BIOMECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF TAEKWONDO FRONT-KICKS,
(1989).
[3] Y. S. Chen, S. Zhou, and C. Cartwright, Effect of 12 Weeks of Tai Chi Training on Soleus
Hoffmann Reflex and Control of Static Posture in Older Adults, Archives of Physical
Medicine and Rehabilitation 92, 886 (2011).
[4] R. S. Weinberg and D. Gould, Foundations of Sport and Exercise Psychology, Human
Kinetics (2014).
[5] T. McMahon, Muscles, Reflexes, and Locomotion (Princeton University Press, 1984).
[6] M. Haddad, Performance Optimization in Taekwondo: From Laboratory to Field (2014).
[7] B. McGonagill, Physics of Martial Arts, (2004).
[8] A. Merk and A. Resnick, Physics of Martial Arts: Incorporation of Angular Momentum to
Model Body Motion and Strikes, PLoS ONE 16, 1 (2021).
[9] H. H. Choi, Taekwon-Do: The Art of Self-Defence.
[10] H. S. SEONG, TaeKwon-Do Motion Physics-How Sine Wave and Other Components Affect
the Arts Performance, https://www.kidokwan.org/hall/tae-kwon-do-motion-physics/.