What are the two types of taekwondo?

Taekwondo is a revered martial art that has gained international recognition and respect. With its dynamic techniques and emphasis on discipline, it is crucial to delve into what are the two types of taekwondo that practitioners train in today. The **International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF)** and the **World Taekwondo Federation (WTF)** represent the two primary branches of taekwondo, each with its own philosophies, styles, and techniques.

The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF)

The ITF was founded by General Choi Hong Hi in 1966 and is often considered the original form of taekwondo. It emphasizes traditional techniques, including patterns (hyung), sparring (dallyon), and breaking (gyokpa). Understanding ITF provides insights into the traditional roots of this martial art.

Principles of ITF Taekwondo

ITF taekwondo is characterized by its adherence to traditional forms and moral teachings, which include:

Respect for Origins: Practitioners honor the lineage and teachings that form the basis of their training.
Focus on Self-Improvement: The philosophy emphasizes personal growth and mastery of techniques.
Heart of Taekwondo: ITF places a strong emphasis on the ethical practice of self-defense and preservation of peace.

Techniques Prominent in ITF

In ITF taekwondo, practitioners learn a variety of techniques, including:

Poomsae (Patterns): These are sequences of movements designed to represent combat against multiple opponents.
Self-Defense Techniques: ITF includes practical self-defense scenarios to prepare students for real-world situations.

The World Taekwondo Federation (WTF)

Established in 1973, the WTF is recognized as the official governing body of taekwondo in the Olympics. While the WTF focuses on sport, it also maintains traditional practices. The question of what are the two types of taekwondo can’t be answered without discussing the innovative approaches of the WTF.

Principles of WTF Taekwondo

WTF taekwondo promotes competitive sportsmanship and features:

Sporting Spirit: Emphasis is placed on competition, sporting ethics, and fair play.
Dynamic Kicking Techniques: Techniques are designed to score points in a competitive environment.

Techniques Prominent in WTF

WTF practitioners emphasize a range of techniques, including:

Rapid Kicking Techniques: Focus on speed and timing to land effective strikes.
Poomsae: Unlike ITF, the poomsae in WTF conforms to different patterns and scoring criteria.

Comparing ITF and WTF Taekwondo

Understanding what are the two types of taekwondo also involves recognizing the distinct differences between the ITF and WTF. While both branches share fundamental principles, they diverge significantly in style and execution. For instance:

Focus on Techniques: ITF leans more towards traditional techniques, whereas WTF emphasizes sport-oriented applications.
Training Environment: WTF training is often more competitive, while ITF stress self-discipline and traditional forms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding what are the two types of taekwondo is pivotal for anyone interested in pursuing this martial art. Whether you choose ITF for its traditional roots or WTF for its competitive edge, both branches offer valuable insights and benefits. Engaging in taekwondo not only helps develop physical skills but also fosters mental discipline and respect.