Universal Taekwondo Federation

'Martial Arts in Modern Times' by Julie Yen-Pik-Sang

Introduction

The purpose of this essay is to look at the martial arts within modern day society, however, the term martial arts (MA), within combative arts encompasses many often diverse styles of fighting. Therefore, to cover all aspects is beyond the realms of this essay and as such emphasis will be placed on the Korean martial art of TaeKwonDo (TKD).

In order to understand the role and function of martial arts in modern times, it is useful to highlight its origins and historical development. Initially, this paper will briefly outline the original concept of martial arts and then develop the history of TaeKwonDo. Finally, it will examine the role of TaeKwonDo in modern times and then reflect upon its development in terms of its sporting status.

Overview

The application of martial art as a form of self-defence purportedly developed in China, in 525AD by a Zen Buddhist. The monk developed a series of exercises to strengthen the body and by 550AD, the exercises had become well renowned. In the quest to spread Buddhism, he trained many monks in these principles and applications, and they served as a means of self-defence whilst on their religious quests to spread the word of the Buddha god (http://members.spree.com).

The art form grew not only in popularity, but also in application. The travelling monks often practised and demonstrated the moves to the people of those provinces. Many of the original moves became adapted to benefit the peoples requirements, for example in its original form they would use farming equipment, these them became what we know as MA weapons such as spears and swords. They were used in some quarters as a means of defence, whilst others used different styles of foot and hand combat. These today are known by names such as Kung fu, Karate, Kendo and TaeKwonDo.

TaeKwonDo is a Korean MA meaning "the art of kicking and punching" (Park, Park and Gerrard, 1989, p.1). TaeKwonDo is a direct derivative of an art formerly known as Taekkyon, which has been practised in Korea over many centuries. However, for many years, a variety of Korean MA styles has existed, being influenced by numerous Chinese and Japanese styles, therefore diluting and compromising the native Subak Taekkyon style (Park et al., 1989). Finally, in 1955, the various schools (kwans) united and brought together a more modern and unified approach to a traditional form (Jaguartaekwondo.com). They called this form TaeKwonDo.

Since the unification of TaeKwonDo in the 1950's, it has obtained major success, as one of only two MA being practised around the world (the other being Karate) (Park et al., 1989). It has appeal across all denominations and age groups and is also recognised as a developing sport. TaeKwonDo's rapid rise to this successful status has not altered its foundations or its philosophy. For, TKD still maintains its original ethos of building a more peaceful and harmonious world (http://www.ittkd.com).

Considering that TaeKwonDo in its earliest form has been practised for many centuries, it is classified as, a relatively modern martial art. TaeKwonDo, utilises as many aspects of the human being as it possibly can, in doing so it teaches valuable knowledge to its students, for example, a great amount of human physiology is learnt by all practitioners. This knowledge serves two important purposes, firstly, it gives one the advantage over an assailant, in that one is able to pinpoint weaknesses quickly and execute techniques accurately. Secondly, it helps one to redress imbalances in posture, through proper feet and joint positioning (http://tae_kwon_do_pdx.com).

The many styles of martial arts that are taught are adequate and effective forms of self-defence. However, this alone is not the only reason why people pursue martial arts, there are many who prefer the training methods of martial arts to increase fitness/well being, to increase mental energy flow and to develop greater self-discipline. It is an effective and stimulating way to stay fit and healthy both mentally and physically (Mitchell, 1992). However, whether training as a form of self-defence or for another purpose, students are generally taught the philosophy associated to each style. In TaeKwonDo, as the student progresses, they become familiar with the tenets attached to it – courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit (http://www.Jaguartaekwondo.com, http://tae_kwon_do_pdx.com/rules.htm). These hopefully become integrated into their way of life.

The application of martial arts as an educational tool does not only extend to the physical and to the psychological, but it also looks to enhance the spiritual well being of its students. It teaches respect, good character and correct attitude. The principle taught in the dojang (place of teaching) can be incorporated into any sphere of life, for within TaeKwonDo, no age, sexual or racial barriers exist. It encourages each student to develop a positive attitude and outlook on life as a whole (http://www.itatkd.com.tkdphil.html).

TaeKwonDo as a traditional martial art has transformed itself into a modern sport and it has gone through various processes in order to be able to achieve this status. The governing bodies are continually re-developing the rules and protective wear, not only to enhance the competition element of TKD, but also to include greater protection for the competitors. At the opening ceremonies of the Seoul Olympic games, TaeKwonDo was designated as an official Demonstration Sport (Park, et al., (1989), culminating in its full Olympic status for the 2000 Olympic games (http.www.Jaguartaekwondo.com).

It appears, that martial arts and in particular TaeKwonDo, has excelled itself in the modern times. It has kept to its original concept with regards to self-defence, but has also had to be applied to modern day ‘violence’. Yet its ethos and honour have not been jeopardised by the modern day values. However, instructors have demonstrated great judgement in realising that participants attend for various reason and expectations. There will be some students who want physical fitness, whilst some may want mental or moral guidance. Self-defence may appeal to some and others may see it as a way of unifying the family, 'a family that trains together, stays together'. TaeKwonDo teaches this concept, not only to the individual, but also to practitioners as a group. For, if you can harmonies your body, mind and spirit, you can achieve anything as long as it is reflective of the spirit of TaeKwonDo.

Conclusion

Although martial arts is often seen as being outdated, tradition MA’s, in particularly that of TaeKwonDo have shown that with ‘proper’ appreciation and realistic application of its skill, it has a place in modern society.

Bibliography
Mitchell, D. (1992). The Young Martial Artist. London: Penguin Group.
Park, Y. H., Park, Y.H., & Gerrard, J. (1989). The ultimate reference guide to the world’s most popular martial art TAEKWONDO. New York: Facts on File.
http://www.itatkd.com.tkdphil.html
http://www.itaktd.com/tkdtrinity.html
http://www.jaguartaekwondo.com.overview.htm
http://scs.student.virginia.edu/~uvatkd/ustu-factbook/fb-fyi.html
http://members.spree.com/sports/coolpenguin/history.htlm
http://members.spree.com/sports/coolpenguin/TAEKWONDO.html
http://www.tae_kwon_do_pdx.com/
http://www.tae _kwon_do_pdx.com/rules.htm
http://www.tae_kwon_do_pdx.com/selfdef.htm

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