Taekwondo is one of the most popular martial arts in the world, known for its dynamic kicks and striking techniques. However, not all Taekwondo is the same. Olympic Taekwondo and Traditional Taekwondo are two different branches of the same tree. They share many similarities, but there are also some distinct differences. In this post, we’ll explore those differences and help you understand how Olympic Taekwondo differs from Traditional Taekwondo.
First, let’s talk about the history of Taekwondo. Traditional Taekwondo is the original form of the martial art, developed in Korea as far back as the 1950s. It was heavily influenced by other martial arts, such as Karate and Kung Fu. It was designed to be an effective form of self-defense, and it was mostly taught in martial arts schools, or “kwans.” Olympic Taekwondo, on the other hand, is a more recent development. It was created in the 1970s as a way to bring Taekwondo to the world stage as an Olympic sport.
The most obvious difference between Olympic Taekwondo and Traditional Taekwondo is the competition aspect. Olympic Taekwondo is a sport, and as such, it is governed by rules, regulations, and scoring systems that are designed to make it fair, safe and exciting for the athletes, and for the audience. Traditional Taekwondo, on the other hand, is more focused on self-defense and personal development. The two practices are similar, but the primary focus and context are very different.
Another significant difference between the two forms is the use of protective gear. In Olympic Taekwondo, athletes wear protective gear such as chest guards, headgear, and shin guards to prevent injuries during competition. While traditional taekwondo typically does not require the use of protective gear, some schools may use the gear for safety during sparring.
Another key difference is that Olympic Taekwondo has a wider range of kicks, which are designed to score points in competition. For example, spinning and jumping kicks are allowed and encouraged in Olympic Taekwondo, whereas they may not be as common in traditional Taekwondo. These fancy kicks are meant to impress the judges and score points, however in reality such moves might not be practical to use in real-life, self-defense situations. Traditional Taekwondo focuses more on techniques that are practical and efficient for self-defense, such as strikes to vital areas and joint locks.
Another key difference is that Olympic Taekwondo has a more standardized training curriculum, with a focus on competition-specific techniques and strategies. Traditional Taekwondo can vary widely depending on the school or instructor, and may include a wider range of techniques and training methods. In Olympic Taekwondo, the rules and regulations are set by the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), while in traditional Taekwondo there are many different governing bodies and interpretations.
While traditional taekwondo places a greater emphasis on forms and patterns, Olympic taekwondo places more emphasis on sparring. This is because in Olympic Taekwondo, athletes need to be able to perform their techniques in a live sparring scenario, whereas traditional Taekwondo is more about the development of discipline, balance, and respect.
In conclusion, Olympic Taekwondo and Traditional Taekwondo share many similarities, but they also have distinct differences. Olympic Taekwondo is a sport that emphasizes competition, point-scoring techniques, and the use of protective gear, while Traditional Taekwondo is focused on self-defense, personal development, and various training methods. Both have their own set of benefits and drawbacks, and it ultimately depends on the individual’s needs and preferences which one they choose to pursue. Whatever you choose, just remember, practice safe and stay sharp!
FAQ:
Q: What is the main difference between Olympic Taekwondo and Traditional Taekwondo?
A: The main difference is that Olympic Taekwondo is a sport and is governed by rules, regulations, and scoring systems, whereas Traditional Taekwondo is focused on self-defense and personal development.
Q: Does Olympic Taekwondo focus more on fancy kicks than Traditional Taekwondo?
A: Yes, Olympic Taekwondo places more emphasis on point-scoring techniques such as spinning and jumping kicks, whereas Traditional Taekwondo places more emphasis on practical and efficient self-defense techniques.
Q: Do athletes in Olympic Taekwondo wear protective gear?
A: Yes, athletes in Olympic Taekwondo wear protective gear such as chest guards, headgear, and shin guards to prevent injuries during competition. Traditional Taekwondo, however, typically does not require the use of protective gear.
Q: Are the training methods different between the two?
A: Yes, Olympic Taekwondo has a more standardized training curriculum, with a focus on competition-specific techniques and strategies, while Traditional Taekwondo can vary widely depending on the school or instructor and may include a wider range of techniques and training methods.
Q: Is there a difference in the governing bodies of the two?
A: Yes, the rules and regulations of Olympic Taekwondo are set by the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), while Traditional Taekwondo has many different governing bodies and interpretations.
Q: Is one more effective for self-defense than the other?
A: Both Olympic and Traditional Taekwondo can be effective for self-defense, but the techniques and strategies used in each may be more or less effective depending on the situation. It ultimately depends on the individual’s needs and preferences which one they choose to pursue.
Q: Can one transition easily between Olympic and Traditional Taekwondo?
A: While the principles and techniques are similar, Olympic and Traditional Taekwondo are quite different, so it may be difficult to transition easily between the two. It would require a different approach, mindset and training.
Q: Is one better than the other?
A: Both Olympic and Traditional Taekwondo have their own set of benefits and drawbacks, and it ultimately depends on the individual’s needs and preferences.
Related Articles:
Taekwondo vs Tang Soo Do [7 key points!]
10 Best Taekwondo Schools in USA
What is the best Taekwondo sparring gear?
Are Taekwondo and Karate the same?
Can Taekwondo be self taught?