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Taekwondo is comprised of several different martial arts, with influences from T'ang-su, Taek Kyon, also known as Subak, Tae Kwon, Kwonpup and Tae Kwonpup. There are also influences from Judo, Karate, and Kung-fu. The literal meaning of Taekwondo can be broken into 3 words: Tae – A system of foot techniques. Kwon – A system of hand techniques. Do – The way or art. Loosely translated Taekwondo means “The way of the hand and foot.” Students of Taekwondo are exposed to three main categories of the martial art, which are forms, sparring, and self-defense. Taekwondo is often characterized with fast, spinning, and jumping kicks. Aside from the aesthetic aspects, Taekwondo increasingly becomes a way of life for many of its practitioners providing unity between the mind, body, and life. Sport Taekwondo After the liberation of Korea from the Japanese colonial rule during World War II, Taekwondo began to popularize. After its growth throughout the world Taekwondo became a national martial art. The Kukkiwon was soon founded in 1972 followed by the establishment of the World Taekwondo Federation. 
In 1980 the World Taekwondo Federation became an International Olympic Committee recognized sport. The sports crowning achievement came in 1982 when the IOC designated Taekwondo as an official demonstration sport for the 24th Olympiad held in Seoul, Korea and the 25th Olympiad held in Barcelona, Spain. Finally in the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Taekwondo became a full medal Olympic sport and gained worldwide recognition. Sport Taekwondo is full contact sparring with limitations. One can not use hand techniques to the face, grapple, or attack below the waist. Points are awarded to a competitor who delivers a powerful technique to the head, face, or trunk area. All competitors are required to wear protective gear when participating in sparring. For a full detail list of competition rules please visit: WTF Rules.
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