Our Syllabus and Theory Guide
The hyphen in Taekwon-Do represents far more than a way of writing the name. It symbolises the inseparable connection between Taekwon (the physical) and Do (the way) in which we develop our knowledge, character and understanding.
These pages are designed to support both sides of that hyphen. You will find resources to help you understand, practise and improve the physical techniques and patterns required at each grade. Alongside these are resources to develop your knowledge of Taekwon-Do, including Korean terminology, pattern meanings and history, belt meanings, principles and traditions.
Green Stripe
7th Kup
Green Belt
6th Kup
Blue Stripe
5th Kup
White Belt (10th Kup) Junior
⚪️ Belt Meaning
White signifies innocence, as that of the beginning student who has no previous knowledge of Taekwon-Do.
🇰🇷 Korean Terminology
Charyot
Attention
Kyong-Ye
Bow
Junbi
Ready
Dobok
Uniform
Dojang
Hall
Sijak
Start
Guman
Stop
📖 Taekwon-Do Knowledge
-
Taekwon-Do is a martial art that comes from Korea.
-
It was officially named in 1955.
-
The word breaks down into three parts: tae (foot or kick), kwon (fist or hand), and do (the art, way, or discipline). Put together, it translates to "the way of the foot and the fist."
-
It was founded by a man called General Choi Hong Hi.
-
He served as a major general in the South Korean army, where he integrated martial arts into his military training.
-
Tae (태): To kick, jump, or smash with the foot.
-
Kwon (권): Fist, hand, or punching technique.
-
Do (도): The way, method, or path of discipline
🧠 Tenets & Values
The Five Tenets of Taekwon-Do are the values that guide how we should behave both inside and outside the dojang. As you train, you should learn what each tenet means and try to demonstrate them through your actions.
Courtesy
being polite and showing respect.
Integrity
knowing what is right and trying to do it.
Perseverance
continuing even when something is difficult.
Self-Control
staying in control of our actions and emotions.
Indomitable Spirit
having courage and not giving up.
🥋 New Movements
Front Punch Ap Jirugi
in Parallel Stance Narani Sogi, Sitting Stance Annun Sogi and Walking Stance Gunnun Sogi.
1. The fist must stay in the centre of the body at the moment of impact. 2. Use the two large punching knuckles.
Low Block Najunde Makgi
in Walking Stance Gunnun Sogi.
If the fist, fingertip or blocking tool reaches below the defender's waist level, it is called a low block. It is used to intercept the opponent's attacking tool directed against the lower abdomen and areas below. 1. The distance from the under forearm to the thigh is approximately 20 centimetres. 2. The forearm is parallel to the thigh. 3. The elbow bends outward at about 25 degrees. 4. While blocking, pull the opposite fist to the hip.
Middle Block Kaunde Makgi
in Walking Stance Gunnun Sogi.
If the fist or fingertip reaches the same level as the defender's shoulder, it is called a middle block. It is used to intercept the opponent's attacking tool directed against the solar plexus and areas above. 1. The fist finishes level with the shoulder (so that the elbow is low enough to protect the body) and on the shoulder line. 2. The elbow is bent approximately 90°. 3. The body finishes half-facing the opponent. 4. The block travels from inward to outward.
Front Kick Ap Chagi
This technique is designed to attack an opponent in the front. The face, solar plexus, and abdomen are some targets. It is performed with the ball of the foot. The common principles of this kick: 1. The stationary leg must be relaxed at the moment of impact. 2. The knee of the kicking leg must be brought sharply toward the chest prior to kicking. These two motions must be coordinated in one smooth, swift action. 3. The attacking tool must reach the target in a straight line. Bend the toes sharply upwards. 4. The kicking foot must be withdrawn immediately after the kick and brought back to the ground or the floor. 5. Carefully gauge the height and distance of the target and calculate the feasibility of using the kick. 6. The toes of the stationary foot should point to the front at the moment of impact. 7. The stationary foot must not pivot throughout the kicking.
📹 Videos
Front Punch
How to tie your belt
Front Kick
Basic commands
Middle Block
Low Block
Purple Stripe
⚪️ Belt Meaning
White signifies innocence, as that of the beginning student who has no previous knowledge of Taekwon-Do.
🇰🇷 Korean Terminology
Charyot
Attention
Kyong-Ye
Bow
Junbi
Ready
Dobok
Uniform
Dojang
Hall
Sijak
Start
Guman
Stop
Jirugi
Punch
Makgi
Block
Gunnun Sogi
Walking Stance
Najunde Makgi
Low Block
📖 Taekwon-Do Knowledge
-
Taekwon-Do was founded by a man called General Choi Hong Hi.
-
He served as a major general in the South Korean army, where he integrated martial arts into his military training.
-
In 1955, the name Taekwon-Do was officially adopted for the martial art he had helped to develop.
-
In 1966, General Choi founded the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) to help spread Taekwon-Do around the world.
-
He developed the 24 Chang-Hon patterns, many of which are named after important people and events from Korean history.
🧠 Tenets & Values
The Five Tenets of Taekwon-Do are the values that guide how we should behave both inside and outside the dojang. As you train, you should learn what each tenet means and try to demonstrate them through your actions.
Courtesy
being polite and showing respect.
Integrity
knowing what is right and trying to do it.
Perseverance
continuing even when something is difficult.
Self-Control
staying in control of our actions and emotions.
Indomitable Spirit
having courage and not giving up.
Saju-Jirugi means Four-Directional Punch. It consists of 15 movements.
It is not a pattern, but an exercise to practice fundamental movements.
Stances
Walking Stance Gunnun Sogi
1. Weight distribution is 50/50, even on both legs. 2. Feet should be 1½ shoulder widths long, measured from big toe to big toe, and one shoulder width wide, measured from the centre of each instep. 3. Bend the front leg until the kneecap is vertically above the heel; keep the opposite leg straight. 4. Point the front foot forward and turn the opposite foot 25° outward. 5. Tense the feet as though pulling them towards each other. When the right leg is bent, the stance is called a right walking stance and vice-versa. It can be either full facing or half facing both in attack and defence.
Parallel Stance Narani Sogi
1. Weight distribution is 50/50, even on both legs. 2. Spread the feet parallel to shoulder width. 3. Keep the toes pointing toward the front (heels directly behind the toes).
Techniques
Front Punch Ap Jirugi
1. The fist must stay in the centre of the body at the moment of impact. 2. Pull the punching hand back to the hip in a circular motion to generate power, before extending towards the target. 2. Use the two large punching knuckles.
Instructions
SAJU-JIRUGI — 15 Movements Start position: PARALLEL READY STANCE (Narani Junbi Sogi) 1. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 2. Turn 90° to the left, moving the right foot back to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the left Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 3. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 4. Turn 90° to the left, moving the right foot back to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the left Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 5. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 6. Turn 90° to the left, moving the right foot back to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the left Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 7. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 8. Move the right foot back to Parallel Ready Stance (Narani Junbi Sogi). 9. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 10. Turn 90° to the right, moving the left foot back to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the right Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 11. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 12. Turn 90° to the right, moving the left foot back to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the right Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 13. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 14. Turn 90° to the right, moving the left foot back to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the right Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 15. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). End: Move the left foot back to the starting Parallel Ready Stance (Narani Junbi Sogi).
Low Block Najunde Makgi
1. The distance from the under forearm to the thigh is approximately 20 centimetres. 2. The forearm is parallel to the thigh. 3. The elbow bends outward at about 25 degrees. 4. While blocking, pull the opposite fist to the hip.
Videos
Orange Stripe
⚪️ Belt Meaning
White signifies innocence, as that of the beginning student who has no previous knowledge of Taekwon-Do.
🇰🇷 Korean Terminology
Charyot
Attention
Kyong-Ye
Bow
Junbi
Ready
Dobok
Uniform
Dojang
Hall
Sijak
Start
Guman
Stop
Gunnun Sogi
Walking Stance
Ap Jirugi
Front Punch
Najunde Makgi
Low Block
Kaunde Makgi
Middle Block
Bakat Palmok
Outer Forearm
An Palmok
Inner Forearm
📖 Taekwon-Do History & Knowledge
-
Taekwon-Do is a martial art that originated in Korea.
-
The name Taekwon-Do was officially adopted on 11 April 1955.
-
The word Taekwon-Do is made up of three parts:
-
Tae (태) — foot, leg, or to kick.
-
Kwon (권) — fist, or to strike with the hand.
-
Do (도) — the way, art or method.
-
-
Together, Taekwon-Do can be understood as "the way of the foot and fist."
-
Korea's history and culture are an important part of Taekwon-Do. As you progress, you will discover that many of our patterns, names and traditions have connections to Korean history.
-
General Choi Hong Hi is the founder of Taekwon-Do.
-
He served as a Major General in the South Korean Army and played a leading role in developing and promoting the martial art.
-
General Choi proposed the name "Taekwon-Do" in 1955.
-
In 1966, he founded the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) to help spread Taekwon-Do internationally.
-
He developed the 24 Chang-Hon patterns, many of which commemorate important people and events from Korean history.
🧠 Tenets & Values
The Five Tenets of Taekwon-Do are the values that guide how we should behave both inside and outside the dojang. As you train, you should learn what each tenet means and try to demonstrate them through your actions.
Courtesy
being polite and showing respect.
Integrity
knowing what is right and trying to do it.
Perseverance
continuing even when something is difficult.
Self-Control
staying in control of our actions and emotions.
Indomitable Spirit
having courage and not giving up.
Saju-Makgi means Four-Directional Block. It consists of 17 movements.
It is not a pattern, but an exercise to practice fundamental movements.
Stances
Walking Stance
Gunnun Sogi
1. Weight distribution is 50/50, even on both legs. 2. Feet should be 1½ shoulder widths long, measured from big toe to big toe, and one shoulder width wide, measured from the centre of each instep. 3. Bend the front leg until the kneecap is vertically above the heel; keep the opposite leg straight. 4. Point the front foot forward and turn the opposite foot 25° outward. 5. Tense the feet as though pulling them towards each other. When the right leg is bent, the stance is called a right walking stance and vice-versa. It can be either full facing or half facing both in attack and defence.
Parallel Stance
Narani Sogi
1. Weight distribution is 50/50, even on both legs. 2. Spread the feet parallel to shoulder width. 3. Keep the toes pointing toward the front (heels directly behind the toes).
Techniques
Knifehand Low Block
Sonkal Najunde Makgi
1. The distance from the knifehand to the thigh is approximately 15 centimetres. 2. The knifehand finishes in line with the shoulder. 3. The elbow bends outward at approximately 15 degrees. 4. While blocking, pull the opposite fist to the hip. 5. The side of the opponent's tibia is the target.
Instructions
SAJU-MAKGI — 17 Movements Start position: PARALLEL READY STANCE (Narani Junbi Sogi) 1. Step backward with the right foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Low Block (Sonkal Najunde Makgi) with the left Knifehand (Sonkal). 2. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the right Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 3. Turn 90° to the left, moving the right foot back to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Low Block (Sonkal Najunde Makgi) with the left Knifehand (Sonkal). 4. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the right Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 5. Turn 90° to the left, moving the right foot back to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Low Block (Sonkal Najunde Makgi) with the left Knifehand (Sonkal). 6. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the right Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 7. Turn 90° to the left, moving the right foot back to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Low Block (Sonkal Najunde Makgi) with the left Knifehand (Sonkal). 8. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the right Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 9. Move the right foot back to Parallel Ready Stance (Narani Junbi Sogi). 10. Step backward with the left foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Low Block (Sonkal Najunde Makgi) with the right Knifehand (Sonkal). 11. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the left Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 12. Turn 90° to the right, moving the left foot back to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Low Block (Sonkal Najunde Makgi) with the right Knifehand (Sonkal). 13. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the left Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 14. Turn 90° to the right, moving the left foot back to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Low Block (Sonkal Najunde Makgi) with the right Knifehand (Sonkal). 15. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the left Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 16. Turn 90° to the right, moving the left foot back to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Low Block (Sonkal Najunde Makgi) with the right Knifehand (Sonkal). 17. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the left Inner Forearm (An Palmok). End: Move the left foot back to the starting Parallel Ready Stance (Narani Junbi Sogi).
Inner-Forearm Middle Block
An-Palmok Kaunde Makgi
1. The fist finishes level with the shoulder (so that the elbow is low enough to protect the body) and on the shoulder line. 2. The elbow is bent approximately 90°. 3. The body finishes half-facing the opponent. 4. The block travels from inward to outward.
Videos
White Belt (10th Kup) Adult
For junior students, Purple Stripe and Orange Stripe are intermediate grades between White Belt and Yellow Stripe (9th Kup). These additional stages allow younger students more time to progressively learn and develop the physical skills and theoretical knowledge required for promotion.
Adult students will normally progress directly from White Belt to Yellow Stripe (9th Kup). Therefore, adults preparing for their first grading should study and be familiar with all content covered in the Junior White Belt, Purple Stripe and Orange Stripe sections, as any of this material may be assessed during their grading. However, the Orange Stripe section is a cumulation of all White Belt and Purple Stripe content, so revising the Orange Stripe section should be sufficient.
Yellow Stripe (9th Kup)
⚪️ White Belt Meaning
White signifies innocence, as that of the beginning student who has no previous knowledge of Taekwon-Do.
🟡 Yellow Belt Meaning
Yellow signifies the earth from which a plant sprouts and takes root as the foundation of Taekwon-Do is being laid.
🇰🇷 Korean Terminology
Gunnun Sogi
Walking Stance
Niunja Sogi
L-Stance
Najunde
Low
Kaunde
Middle
Nopunde
High
Jirugi
Punch
Makgi
Block
Bakat Palmok
Outer Forearm
An Palmok
Inner Forearm
Ap Joomuk
Forefist
📖 Taekwon-Do History & Knowledge
-
Taekwon-Do is a martial art that originated in Korea.
-
The name Taekwon-Do was officially adopted on 11 April 1955.
-
The word Taekwon-Do is made up of three parts:
-
Tae (태) — foot, leg, or to kick.
-
Kwon (권) — fist, or to strike with the hand.
-
Do (도) — the way, art or method.
-
-
Together, Taekwon-Do can be understood as "the way of the foot and fist."
-
Korea's history and culture are an important part of Taekwon-Do. As you progress, you will discover that many of our patterns, names and traditions have connections to Korean history.
-
General Choi Hong Hi is the founder of Taekwon-Do.
-
He served as a Major General in the South Korean Army and played a leading role in developing and promoting the martial art.
-
General Choi proposed the name "Taekwon-Do" in 1955.
-
In 1966, he founded the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) to help spread Taekwon-Do internationally.
-
He developed the 24 Chang-Hon patterns, many of which commemorate important people and events from Korean history.
🧠 Tenets & Values
Tenets of Taekwon-Do
The Five Tenets of Taekwon-Do are the values that guide how we should behave both inside and outside the dojang. As you train, you should learn what each tenet means and try to demonstrate them through your actions.
Courtesy
being polite and showing respect.
Integrity
knowing what is right and trying to do it.
Perseverance
continuing even when something is difficult.
Self-Control
staying in control of our actions and emotions.
Indomitable Spirit
having courage and not giving up.
Ethos of Taekwon-Do
The Ethos of Taekwon-Do reminds us that Taekwon-Do is about much more than learning physical techniques. It sets out the values and responsibilities that students should aim to follow both inside and outside the dojang, encouraging respect, self-discipline, responsible use of our skills and a commitment to helping create a more peaceful world.
-
I will observe the Tenets of Taekwon-Do.
-
I will respect my instructors and seniors.
-
I will never misuse Taekwon-Do.
-
I will be a champion of freedom and justice.
-
I will build a more peaceful world.
Chon-Ji literally means ‘Heaven and Earth’. In the Orient it is interpreted as the creation of the world or the beginning of human history, therefore it is the initial pattern played by the beginner. This pattern consists of two similar parts, one to represent the Heaven and the other the Earth.
Chon-Ji has 19 movements.
MORE ABOUT CHON-JI Chon-Ji means ‘Heaven and Earth’ and takes its name from Lake Chon (‘Heavenly Lake’), a volcanic crater lake on Baekdu Mountain. The lake holds an important place in Korean tradition and is associated with the legendary origins of Korea and Dan-Gun, its legendary founder. General Choi therefore chose Chon-Ji as the name of the first pattern, representing the beginning of a student’s journey in Taekwon-Do. The pattern is divided into two similar parts, traditionally understood to represent Heaven and Earth. Some interpretations also view the final three movements as representing humanity, completing the connection between Heaven, Earth and humankind.
Stances
Walking Stance
Gunnun Sogi
1. Weight distribution is 50/50, even on both legs. 2. Feet should be 1½ shoulder widths long, measured from big toe to big toe, and one shoulder width wide, measured from the centre of each instep. 3. Bend the front leg until the kneecap is vertically above the heel; keep the opposite leg straight. 4. Point the front foot forward and turn the opposite foot 25° outward. 5. Tense the feet as though pulling them towards each other. When the right leg is bent, the stance is called a right walking stance and vice-versa. It can be either full facing or half facing both in attack and defence.
L-Stance
Niunja Sogi
1. Weight distribution is 70% on the rear leg and 30% on the front leg. 2. The stance is 1½ shoulder widths long, measured from the rear foot-sword to the front toe tips. 3. Both feet are turned approximately 15° inward. 4. Bend the rear leg so the kneecap is vertically over the toes, and bend the front leg slightly. 5. Keep the body half-facing, with the shoulders aligned with the direction of the stance.
Techniques
Outer-Forearm Low Block
Bakat-Palmok Najunde Makgi
1. The distance from the outer forearm to the thigh is approximately 20 centimetres. 2. The forearm finishes parallel to the thigh. 3. The elbow bends outward at approximately 25 degrees. 4. While blocking, pull the opposite fist to the hip. 5. The top of the opponent's tibia is the target.
Front Punch Ap Jirugi
1. The fist must stay in the centre of the body at the moment of impact. 2. Pull the punching hand back to the hip in a circular motion to generate power, before extending towards the target. 2. Use the two large punching knuckles.
Inner-Forearm Middle Block
An-Palmok Kaunde Makgi
1. The fist finishes level with the shoulder (so that the elbow is low enough to protect the body) and on the shoulder line. 2. The elbow is bent approximately 90°. 3. The body finishes half-facing the opponent. 4. The block travels from inward to outward.
Instructions
CHON-JI — 19 Movements Start position: PARALLEL READY STANCE (Narani Junbi Sogi) 1. Turn 90° to the left, moving the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the left Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 2. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 3. Turn 180° to the right, moving the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the right Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 4. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 5. Turn 90° to the left, moving the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the left Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 6. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 7. Turn 180° to the right, moving the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Low Block (Najunde Makgi) with the right Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 8. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 9. Turn 90° to the left, moving the left foot to form a right L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the left Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 10. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 11. Turn 180° to the right, moving the right foot to form a left L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the right Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 12. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 13. Turn 90° to the left, moving the left foot to form a right L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the left Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 14. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 15. Turn 180° to the right, moving the right foot to form a left L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Middle Block (Kaunde Makgi) with the right Inner Forearm (An Palmok). 16. Step forward with the left foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 17. Step forward with the right foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 18. Step backward with the right foot to form a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 19. Step backward with the left foot to form a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Middle Punch (Kaunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). End: Bring the left foot back to Parallel Ready Stance (Narani Junbi Sogi).
Videos
Yellow Belt (8th Kup)
🟡 Yellow Belt Meaning
Yellow signifies the earth from which a plant sprouts and takes root as the foundation of Taekwon-Do is being laid.
🇰🇷 Korean Terminology
Gunnun Sogi
Walking Stance
Niunja Sogi
L-Stance
Daebi Makgi
Guarding Block
Chookyo Makgi
Rising Block
San Palmok Makgi
Twin Forearm Block
Sonkal Taerigi
Knifehand Strike
Najunde
Low
Kaunde
Middle
Nopunde
High
Bakat Palmok
Outer Forearm
Ap Joomuk
Forefist
Sonkal
Knifehand
Jirugi
Punch
Makgi
Block
Taerigi
Strike
📖 Taekwon-Do History & Knowledge
-
Taekwon-Do is a martial art that originated in Korea.
-
The name Taekwon-Do was officially adopted on 11 April 1955.
-
The word Taekwon-Do is made up of three parts:
-
Tae (태) — foot, leg, or to kick.
-
Kwon (권) — fist, or to strike with the hand.
-
Do (도) — the way, art or method.
-
-
Together, Taekwon-Do can be understood as "the way of the foot and fist."
-
Korea's history and culture are an important part of Taekwon-Do. As you progress, you will discover that many of our patterns, names and traditions have connections to Korean history.
-
General Choi Hong Hi is the founder of Taekwon-Do.
-
He served as a Major General in the South Korean Army and played a leading role in developing and promoting the martial art.
-
General Choi proposed the name "Taekwon-Do" in 1955.
-
In 1966, he founded the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) to help spread Taekwon-Do internationally.
-
He developed the 24 Chang-Hon patterns, many of which commemorate important people and events from Korean history.
🧠 Tenets & Values
Tenets of Taekwon-Do
The Five Tenets of Taekwon-Do are the values that guide how we should behave both inside and outside the dojang. As you train, you should learn what each tenet means and try to demonstrate them through your actions.
Courtesy
being polite and showing respect.
Integrity
knowing what is right and trying to do it.
Perseverance
continuing even when something is difficult.
Self-Control
staying in control of our actions and emotions.
Indomitable Spirit
having courage and not giving up.
Ethos of Taekwon-Do
The Ethos of Taekwon-Do reminds us that Taekwon-Do is about much more than learning physical techniques. It sets out the values and responsibilities that students should aim to follow both inside and outside the dojang, encouraging respect, self-discipline, responsible use of our skills and a commitment to helping create a more peaceful world.
-
I will observe the Tenets of Taekwon-Do.
-
I will respect my instructors and seniors.
-
I will never misuse Taekwon-Do.
-
I will be a champion of freedom and justice.
-
I will build a more peaceful world.
🧐 Taekwon-Do Movement Principles
Taekwon-Do Training Secrets
The Training Secrets of Taekwon-Do were set out by General Choi to help students understand how techniques should be performed correctly and effectively. They remind us that good Taekwon-Do is not simply about copying movements: we should understand their purpose, coordinate the whole body and apply the correct principles to every technique.
-
To study the Theory of Power thoroughly.
-
To understand the purpose and method of each movement clearly.
-
To bring the action of eyes, hands, feet and breath into one single coordinated action.
-
To choose the appropriate attacking tool for each vital spot.
-
To become familiar with the correct angle and distance for attack and defence.
-
Keep both the arms and legs bent slightly while movement is in motion.
-
All movements must begin with a backward motion with very few exceptions. However, once the movement is in motion, it should not be stopped before reaching the target.
-
To create a sine wave during the movement by utilising the knee spring properly.
-
To exhale briefly at the moment of each blow, except in a connecting motion.
Theory of Power
The Theory of Power explains the scientific principles used in Taekwon-Do to produce maximum power in a technique. Rather than relying on strength alone, effective techniques use the whole body correctly. General Choi identified six elements which work together to help us generate power.
-
Reaction Force — Using an opposing force to increase the power of a technique.
-
Concentration — Focusing our strength onto the correct attacking tool and target at the right moment.
-
Equilibrium — Maintaining good balance and stability throughout the technique.
-
Breath Control — Coordinating the breath with movement to improve power and control.
-
Mass — Using as much of the body's weight as possible behind the technique.
-
Speed — Increasing the speed of a technique to greatly increase its power.
Dan-Gun is named after the holy Dan-Gun, the legendary founder of Korea in the year 2333 BC.
Dan-Gun has 21 movements.
MORE ABOUT DAN-GUN Dan-Gun is the legendary founder of Korea and is said to have established the first Korean kingdom in 2333 BC. His importance is still recognised in Korea today, with 3 October celebrated as a national holiday associated with the foundation of the Korean nation. According to legend, the god Hwanin sent his son Hwang-Ung to Earth to establish a new country. A bear and a tiger asked Hwang-Ung to turn them into humans, so he instructed them to remain in a cave, living on garlic and mugwort. The tiger gave up, but the bear persevered and was transformed into a woman named Ung-Yo. Hwang-Ung and Ung-Yo later had a son, Dan-Gun, who went on to found the first Korean kingdom. An earlier version of the legend says that the bear and tiger were required to stay away from sunlight for 21 days. This is sometimes suggested as the reason why the pattern Dan-Gun contains 21 movements. The story may also have its roots in Korea's early history. One interpretation suggests that different tribes worshipping the sun, bear and tiger came together, with Dan-Gun representing the unification of these groups into one nation. This helps explain why Dan-Gun became such an important legendary figure in Korean culture.
Stances
Walking Stance
Gunnun Sogi
1. Weight distribution is 50/50, even on both legs. 2. Feet should be 1½ shoulder widths long, measured from big toe to big toe, and one shoulder width wide, measured from the centre of each instep. 3. Bend the front leg until the kneecap is vertically above the heel; keep the opposite leg straight. 4. Point the front foot forward and turn the opposite foot 25° outward. 5. Tense the feet as though pulling them towards each other. When the right leg is bent, the stance is called a right walking stance and vice-versa. It can be either full facing or half facing both in attack and defence.
L-Stance
Niunja Sogi
1. Weight distribution is 70% on the rear leg and 30% on the front leg. 2. The stance is 1½ shoulder widths long, measured from the rear foot-sword to the front toe tips. 3. Both feet are turned approximately 15° inward. 4. Bend the rear leg so the kneecap is vertically over the toes, and bend the front leg slightly. 5. Keep the body half-facing, with the shoulders aligned with the direction of the stance.
Techniques
Knifehand Guarding Block
Sonkal Daebi Makgi
1. The front Knifehand finishes at shoulder height, on the shoulder line. 2. The rear Knifehand finishes on the chest line, about 3 cm from the solar plexus. 3. Keep the body half-facing. 4. The front hand blocks the main attack; the rear hand guards against a secondary attack. 5. Both hands should arrive together in a strong guarding position.
High Punch Napunde Jirugi
1. The Forefist finishes at eye level. 2. Punch straight forwards towards the centre line. 3. Do not punch upwards — the fist simply finishes higher.
Outer-Forearm Low Block
Bakat-Palmok Najunde Makgi
1. The distance from the outer forearm to the thigh is approximately 20 centimetres. 2. The forearm finishes parallel to the thigh. 3. The elbow bends outward at approximately 25 degrees. 4. While blocking, pull the opposite fist to the hip. 5. The top of the opponent's tibia is the target.
Twin Forearm Block
Sang Palmok Makgi
1. The front Outer Forearm is the primary block and finishes on the shoulder line, at shoulder height. 2. The other forearm protects the high section above the forehead. 3. Keep the upper blocking arm bent, not straight. 4. Keep the body half-facing. 5. Both arms move together from the preparation position in front of the chest. The lower, primary hand crosses closes to the body.
Rising Block
Chookyo Makgi
1. Use the Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok) as the blocking tool. 2. Finish above the head, with the forearm centred over the forehead. 3. Keep approximately 7 cm between the Inner Forearm and forehead. 4. Bend the elbow approximately 45°, with the fist slightly higher than the elbow. 5. Travel across and upwards to deflect the attack away from the head. 6. Keep the body full-facing.
Knifehand Outward Strike
Sonkal Bakruo Taerigi
1. Use the Knifehand (Sonkal) as the attacking tool. 2. The strike travels from inward to outward. 3. Finish at shoulder height, on the shoulder line. 4. Move the arm in an arc from in front of the chest towards the target. 5. Keep the arm bent during the movement and extend it as the strike reaches the target.
Motions
Continuous Motion
Yonsok Dongjak
1. Perform both movements on one count. 2. Use one continuous breath across both techniques — don’t stop breathing between them. 3. Use two sine waves — one for each technique. 4. Let the first technique flow smoothly into the second, with no pause between them. 5. Each technique must still be complete and effective — don’t rush or blend them into one technique. 6. Think of responding continuously to more than one attack from an opponent.
Instructions
DAN-GUN Tul — 21 Movements Start position: Parallel Ready Stance (Narani Junbi Sogi) 1. Turn 90° to the left, moving the left foot to form a right L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Guarding Block (Sonkal Daebi Makgi). 2. Step forward with the right foot into a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a High Punch (Nopunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 3. Turn 180° to the right, moving the right foot to form a left L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Knifehand Guarding Block (Sonkal Daebi Makgi). 4. Step forward with the left foot into a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a High Punch (Nopunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 5. Turn 90° to the left, moving the left foot into a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing an Outer Forearm Low Block (Bakat Palmok Najunde Makgi). 6. Step forward with the right foot into a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a High Punch (Nopunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 7. Step forward with the left foot into a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a High Punch (Nopunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 8. Step forward with the right foot into a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a High Punch (Nopunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). Kihap. 9. Turn 270° to the left, moving the left foot to form a right L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Twin Forearm Block (Sang Palmok Makgi). 10. Step forward with the right foot into a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a High Punch (Nopunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 11. Turn 180° to the right, moving the right foot to form a left L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Twin Forearm Block (Sang Palmok Makgi). 12. Step forward with the left foot into a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a High Punch (Nopunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 13. Turn 90° to the left, moving the left foot into a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing an Outer Forearm Low Block (Bakat Palmok Najunde Makgi). 14. Without moving the feet, execute a Forearm Rising Block (Palmok Chookyo Makgi) with the left Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok), maintaining the left Walking Stance. Movements 13 and 14 are performed in Continuous Motion. 15. Step forward with the right foot into a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Forearm Rising Block (Palmok Chookyo Makgi) with the right Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 16. Step forward with the left foot into a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Forearm Rising Block (Palmok Chookyo Makgi) with the left Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). 17. Step forward with the right foot into a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a Forearm Rising Block (Palmok Chookyo Makgi) with the right Outer Forearm (Bakat Palmok). Kihap. 18. Turn 270° to the left, moving the left foot to form a right L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Middle Outward Knifehand Strike (Sonkal Kaunde Bakuro Taerigi) with the left Knifehand (Sonkal). 19. Step forward with the right foot into a right Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a High Punch (Nopunde Jirugi) with the right Forefist (Ap Joomuk). 20. Turn 180° to the right, moving the right foot to form a left L-Stance (Niunja Sogi), while executing a Middle Outward Knifehand Strike (Sonkal Kaunde Bakuro Taerigi) with the right Knifehand (Sonkal). 21. Step forward with the left foot into a left Walking Stance (Gunnun Sogi), while executing a High Punch (Nopunde Jirugi) with the left Forefist (Ap Joomuk). End: Bring the left foot back to Parallel Ready Stance (Narani Junbi Sogi).
