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The martial art of Karate as we know it today originated on the island of Okinawa, largest of the Ryukyus.  During the time of the Tokugawa shogunate (Edo period) in Japan (1603-1867), and the Qing dynasty in China (1636-1912), the Ryukyus were an independent kingdom.  However, the kings of the Ryukyus gave formal allegiance to […]

Respect is vital to the personal discipline of martial arts. Over time and in many diverse cultures, respect for ourselves and for others is emphasized as a foundational personal strength. Bushido, the warrior code of the samurai, strongly stressed respect. The knightly virtues of the Middle Ages highlighted courtesy – behavior that demonstrates respect – […]

Let’s start by looking at the meaning of this term.  It is made up of two words originally drawn from Latin.  Ars means “skill or ability.”  Martial means “relating to Mars” – the old Roman god of war and combat.  Put them together, we get “skills or arts relating to Mars.” The word “martial” has […]

Let’s look briefly at the 6th Tenet of Taekwondo:  Indomitable Spirit. This is the personal strength we apply to be bold in our aspirations, and resolute and determined in achieving them.  Indomitable Spirit is the courage and confidence to set valuable, worthwhile long-term goals for ourselves.  We hold to our chosen course, meeting challenges, obstacles […]

It is easy to see how studying and practicing the martial arts develops our physical skills – both empty-hand and with traditional tools such as the Long Staff (Bo) or the Samurai Sword (Katana).  Rigorous physical training also enhances our overall physical fitness – our strength, flexibility, and endurance.  These are the strengths of our […]

Let’s look briefly at the 5th Tenet of Taekwondo:  Self-Control. This is the personal strength we apply when we take command of our own behavior.  Self-Control is taking responsibility for what we do, the things we say, what we think and even how we feel.  We’re determined to take charge of all of these, shaping […]

Let’s look briefly at the 4th Tenet of Taekwondo:  Perseverance. This is the personal strength we apply when we work through challenges.  Perseverance is our steady determination and effort to accomplish the goals we have set for ourselves.  We keep striving to move forward even when we face difficulties, opposition, or setbacks.  Other words for […]

Let’s look briefly at the 3rd Tenet of Taekwondo:  Integrity. This is the personal strength we apply when we’re sincere and honest.  Integrity is telling the truth, keeping our promises, and making our best efforts to do what is right.  We’re responsible, dependable and trustworthy – we deal in good faith both with other people, […]

Let’s look briefly at the 2nd Tenet of Taekwondo:  Humility. This is the personal strength we apply when we carefully and honestly assess our own abilities and achievements.  Humility is keeping these in accurate perspective – we don’t overestimate or underestimate ourselves. We’re able to acknowledge our mistakes and limitations – but also our achievements […]

Let’s look briefly at the 1st Tenet of Taekwondo:  Courtesy. This is the personal strength we apply when we are polite and use good manners.  Courtesy is treating people with respect and consideration in our dealings with them.  By our words and our actions, we let them know we value them, and that they matter […]