Difference between military Taekwondo and ordinary Taekwondo?

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art known for its dynamic kicks and punches and has evolved into various forms and applications. One of the distinct branches is Military Taekwondo which differs significantly from its traditional counterpart, often referred to as “ordinary” Taekwondo. In this article, we will see the core differences between military taekwondo and ordinary taekwondo.

 

1. Origin:

Ordinary Taekwondo:

Ordinary Taekwondo originated in ancient Korean martial arts and gained international recognition as an official Olympic sport in 2000. Bringing self-defense, discipline and physical fitness, it surrounds a wide range of techniques which include kicks, punches, blocks and strikes. The World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) now known as World Taekwondo (WT) is the governing body for ordinary Taekwondo which sets rules and standards for competitions.

Military Taekwondo:

Military Taekwondo originates from the military forces of South Korea. It is developed to enhance combat skills, it incorporates elements of ordinary Taekwondo while placing a heightened emphasis on practical self-defense and tactical applications. It is not officially recognized as a separate entity by international sports organizations but is widely practiced within military circles globally.

2. Objectives:

Ordinary Taekwondo:

The primary objectives of ordinary Taekwondo revolve around physical fitness, mental discipline and character development. It is practiced as a sport and a form of personal development that focuses on enhancing balance, flexibility and coordination. Competitive sparring, forms (poomsae) and breaking techniques are integral components aimed at honing martial skills in a controlled environment.

Military Taekwondo:

Military Taekwondo places a greater focus on real-world self-defense scenarios. The training is designed to equip military personnel with skills that can be directly translated to combat situations. Techniques are adapted to address specific threats and challenges faced on the battlefield which include close-quarters combat, weapon disarming and multiple assailant scenarios.

3. Training:

Ordinary Taekwondo:

Training in ordinary Taekwondo typically follows a structured curriculum involving belt levels, each associated with specific techniques and forms. Classes include a combination of physical conditioning, technique drills and sparring sessions. The emphasis is on perfecting precise movements, understanding the philosophy of Taekwondo and cultivating a sense of sportsmanship.

Military Taekwondo:

Military Taekwondo training incorporates elements of ordinary Taekwondo but is tailored to the unique needs of military personnel. Training sessions often include scenario-based drills, where practitioners simulate real-world situations. Tactical footwork, quick decision-making and adaptability to unpredictable environments are crucial components of military Taekwondo training.

4. Techniques and Applications:

Ordinary Taekwondo:

Techniques in ordinary Taekwondo are diverse ranging from basic kicks and punches to more advanced spinning and jumping kicks. The focus is on precision, control and effective execution. While the art includes practical self-defense techniques, they are not the primary focus, as ordinary Taekwondo is designed for a broader audience, including children and adults of all fitness levels.

Military Taekwondo:

Military Taekwondo places a greater focus on practicality and adaptability in combat situations. Techniques are streamlined to address specific threats commonly encountered in military operations, such as disarming opponents, incapacitating adversaries quickly and maintaining situational awareness. Close-quarters combat and defensive tactics play a central role in military Taekwondo techniques.

5. Uniforms and Equipment:

Ordinary Taekwondo:

Practitioners of ordinary Taekwondo typically wear a traditional white uniform known as a dobok. Protective gear which includes headgear, chest protectors and shin guards, is commonly used during sparring sessions and competitions. The focus on safety and standardized equipment ensures a level playing field in competitive environments.

Military Taekwondo:

Military Taekwondo practitioners may wear specialized uniforms that align with their military service. The training may involve the use of additional equipment for taekwondo such as tactical vests, gloves and helmets to simulate realistic combat scenarios. The attire is adapted to the specific needs of military operations, reflecting the practical nature of training in a military context.

6. Integration into Military Training:

Ordinary Taekwondo:

While ordinary Taekwondo has gained popularity as a recreational activity and competitive sport, its integration into military training is limited. Military personnel may choose to practice ordinary Taekwondo for personal development, fitness and stress relief, but it is not a standard component of most military training programs.

Military Taekwondo:

Military Taekwondo is intentionally integrated into the training programs of various military forces. Recognizing the benefits of martial arts in enhancing physical fitness, mental resilience and combat effectiveness, military institutions incorporate aspects of Taekwondo training into their curriculum. Specialized units may receive more intensive training, tailored to their specific roles and responsibilities.

7. Global Presence:

Ordinary Taekwondo:

Ordinary Taekwondo has a widespread global presence, with millions of practitioners spanning diverse age groups and backgrounds. It is a recognized Olympic sport, contributing to its popularity and accessibility. Numerous Taekwondo schools and clubs around the world offer training for individuals interested in learning the art of self-defense, sport, or personal development.

Military Taekwondo:

While not as globally recognized as ordinary Taekwondo, Military Taekwondo has a presence within the armed forces of various nations. Military training institutions incorporate Taekwondo techniques to varying extents, depending on the specific martial arts programs implemented by each military branch. Some countries have established specialized units that receive more extensive martial arts training, including Military Taekwondo.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the distinction between Military Taekwondo and ordinary Taekwondo lies in their objectives, focus, training methodologies and applications. Ordinary Taekwondo serves as a sport and a form of personal development, emphasizing discipline, fitness and character building. In contrast, Military Taekwondo is tailored to the unique needs of military personnel, prioritizing practical self-defense and combat effectiveness.

Both branches, while distinct in their purposes, share common roots in Korean martial arts and contribute to the rich tapestry of Taekwondo’s evolution. Whether pursued for personal development or integrated into military training, Taekwondo continues to captivate practitioners worldwide with its dynamic techniques and timeless principles.