TRAINING ConditioningBecause physical fitness is an
important part of martial arts, UCSF Tae Kwon Do workouts include strength training, stretching
, and endurance exercises. UCSF Tae Kwon Do training also includes techniques to enhance breathing, balance, and coordination. An equally important purpose of this training is to
improve participants' focus, awareness, security, confidence, as well as respect for themselves and others. Fundamental TechniquesBasic Tae Kwon Do techniques include various stances (e.g., front stance, back stance, fighting stance), blocks (e.g., upper block, down block, forearm
blocks), strikes (e.g., knife-hand strikes, reverse punch, elbow strikes), and kicks (e.g., front kick, side kick, roundhouse kick). Although more advanced participants also practice extensions of
these movements (e.g., jumps, spins, multiple techniques), these techniques form the foundation of UCSF Tae Kwon Do training.
Technique CombinationsThe various combinations of techniques in UCSF Tae Kwon Do training are organized into five categories. These
categories include: FORMS Also referred to as "hyung" (Korean) or
"kata" (Japanese), a form is a choreographed series of techniques that trace a pattern across the floor. Although these patterns often involve a relatively large area, those performing them
are expected to finish at the location at which they started. Forms enable participants to practice both a wide variety of movements as well as the transitions between these techniques. 1-STEP SPARRING Performed with a partner, 1-step sparring (or
"1-step" for short) consists of a specified series of techniques delivered in response to a simulated attack. A 1-step begins when the partner attacks, and it involves both blocking (or
otherwise avoiding the attack) and counter-attacking. Practiced largely to develop and demonstrate control, 1-steps counter-attacks are designed to be delivered at full speed and with full extension, while
stopping just short of making contact. SELF-DEFENSE UCSF Tae
Kwon Do self-defense training includes escapes (e.g., from chokes, grabs, tackles), joint manipulations (e.g., wrist, elbow), and a variety of self-defense combinations. TUMBLINGTo promote coordination and reduce the risk of injury if/when we fall, UCSF Tae Kwon Do training also involves tumbling, including practice in
rolling and breaking falls. SPARRINGSparring enables participants to practice dynamic techniques against an opponent
in a controlled and supportive environment. |
