After the more athletic beginner student has been given a lesson in humility during board breaking, a weaker green belt student should be allowed to break two boards. At this time, very strong students should hold the boards at an angle that facilitates an easier break of the boards. Optimally, when a student is performing a stationary front snap kick, boards should be held at a 45-degree angle, with the upper edge of the board more toward the student performing the break. When a flying side kick is performed, the board should be held at a 30-degree angle, with the lower end of the board more toward the student who is doing the kick; the board holder can even very slightly push the lower end of the board forward at the time of impact. When a reverse side kick is attempted, the board should be at a slight angle with the upper edge tilted slightly toward the kicker.

The angle at which boards are held is very important. If a student is less advanced, the board should be held at a greater angle, and in most cases, this will assist the student in board breaking efforts. When a smaller and weaker student of a higher rank demonstrates his ability to break two boards, the very athletic young students of white belt rank will learn humility and be somewhat sapped of both ki (energy) and pride. They will recognize that their senior colleagues and martial artists have superior abilities, and they will begin to treat the senior students with respect. They will say, “Pilsung,” from their hearts and they will bow their heads at a traditional 45 to 90-degree angle.

This is precisely the kind of psychology of instruction that needs to be applied in the dojang. A good instructor applies such principles in his classes. Understanding and working within the framework of human nature is why a first-rate instructor must also be a first-rate psychologist.

In the dojang, allowable board breaking techniques for each belt level need to be determined in advance. For instance, a rule may be implemented that the white-belt-breaking technique is a side kick applied to one breaking board. A yellow belt could be required to break one board with a reverse side kick. Such rules are also observed in academic settings, where a first-year high school student is not taught a third-year curriculum merely because he is a good student. It would be better to officially promote him to the third-year level before doing so. The same guideline is applicable in martial arts academies because, without it, the atmosphere would not be conducive to orderly instruction.

In school, students are required to pass exams before they are promoted to the next grade level. It is no different in TaeKwonDo. Even if a dojang has an exceptional student, he cannot be promoted to the next belt level without at least going through a proper assessment procedure. In many respects, such a test in TaeKwonDo should be administered even more strictly than academic tests in school! A TaeKwonDo test should focus more on whether a student has an attitude that is proper and necessary to martial arts practitioners, rather than on his ability to perform technical movements.

Suppose that a student is promoted and given a green or black belt without having undergone a full and proper assessment process. Ultimately, this will do more harm than good, especially for the student. The credibility of the academy will also be undermined, and other students will start to feel jealous, disappointed, distrustful, and perhaps even inferior. These types of problems can eventually force such an academy to close its doors.

Order, harmony, and mutual respect are central to TaeKwonDo. If these qualities are not present, a martial arts academy can hardly continue to call itself an effective academy of martial arts training.

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Athletes come from diverse backgrounds and experiences, each contributing to their unique set of skills and perspectives. One such athlete with an interesting background is NFL punter Braden Mann, who attributes his success to a rather unconventional source – Taekwondo. In a recent conversation, Mann shared insights into how his early years in Taekwondo enriched his life and his football career. This article explores the unexpected benefits of Taekwondo for athletes, as recounted by Mann.

Discipline and Values

One of the first things Mann mentioned about his Taekwondo journey was the importance of discipline and values. He began practicing this Korean martial art at the tender age of three, primarily at his parents’ behest. Taekwondo instilled in him core values such as respect, discipline, and self-control. These early life lessons are invaluable for athletes as they navigate their careers, promoting professionalism both on and off the field.

Coordination and Body Awareness

Mann also highlights the physical benefits of Taekwondo. He found the art particularly beneficial for enhancing lower-body coordination and body awareness. Taekwondo predominantly involves kicking techniques, which demand precise control of the lower extremities. This physical dexterity is not only essential for martial arts but also serves athletes well in various sports where agility, balance, and precise movements are key factors.

Total Commitment

One of the most significant lessons Mann learned from Taekwondo was unwavering commitment. He devoted himself entirely to the sport, attending sessions seven days a week, often for two to three hours each day. The discipline and work ethic he developed in Taekwondo proved invaluable when he transitioned to football. The commitment he showed as a martial artist translated into his success on the gridiron, highlighting the transferability of these qualities between sports.

Lessons in Respect and Emotional Management

Martial arts often entail intense moments of combat, where emotions run high. Mann emphasized how Taekwondo taught him not only self-respect but also respect for his opponents. The practice of bowing and showing respect to one’s sparring partners, even in the heat of competition, ingrained in him the importance of maintaining sportsmanship. This lesson in emotional control and respect serves as a vital foundation for any athlete when navigating the highs and lows of their careers.

Setting a Base and Flexibility

Aside from the mental and emotional aspects, Taekwondo significantly contributed to Mann’s physical development. It improved his flexibility and body awareness, allowing him to stay in peak physical condition. The intensive stretching, balance exercises, and rigorous kicking routines improved his overall athleticism. Mann acknowledges that this strong foundation in Taekwondo allowed him to transition into football seamlessly.

Considerations for Aspiring Athletes

Braden Mann’s journey from Taekwondo to professional football underscores the hidden benefits that martial arts can offer to athletes. The values, discipline, coordination, and commitment he gained in his Taekwondo years continue to shape his success as an NFL player.

For young athletes, considering martial arts like Taekwondo as a complementary training method can be beneficial. It provides not only physical conditioning but also crucial life skills that extend beyond the playing field. Whether it’s learning discipline, promoting respect, or honing body awareness, Taekwondo offers a unique and well-rounded experience for individuals pursuing a career in sports.

In conclusion, Braden Mann’s story sheds light on how Taekwondo can be an unexpected but valuable asset for athletes. The martial art’s teachings of discipline, respect, coordination, and commitment can serve as a strong foundation for success, both in the sporting arena and in life. Whether you’re a young athlete or a seasoned professional, the principles instilled by Taekwondo can be transformative in your athletic journey.

Original Interview is available hhttps://www.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com/nfl/philadelphia-eagles/eagles-qa-braden-mann-explains-how-taekwondo-helps-him-in-football/540695/?partner=yahoo&cid=yahooere

The Eagles’ PR interns do a great job filling out these little oddities in the media guide and they serve as a good way to meet the players behind the helmets.

This week, we chatted with punter Braden Mann, who grew up doing Taekwondo.

Me: How old were you when you started?

Mann: I started when I was like 3. I was really young. My parents put me in it just to learn discipline and value and stuff like that. It was great for me. So I did that up until I was probably 13 or 14, so I did that for 10, 11 years.

Me: What did you like about it?

Mann: I loved the sparring. It was a good way to get coordinated with my lower body too. That was always good. It was just something that I could really focus all my energy on. I was doing that probably, I would go to Taekwondo seven days a week for most of my life. Two or three hours a day. So there was a travel team and going to the Junior Olympics and stuff. It was something for me to focus all my energy on, which is kind of how I do things. Now, it’s football.

Me: Were you a rambunctious kid? Did it help you settle down?

Mann: I think I probably wasn’t a rambunctious kid because I was in it. I solved it before it probably happened for me. I was always dead tired from it, which I’m sure my parents always loved. It was great.

Me: So what made you stop?

Mann: Just focusing more on football and soccer and the other sports I had. It was taking up a lot of my time. And the way I wanted to do it, it was either all or nothing.

Me: What did it teach you — you mentioned discipline — what did it teach you about that element of life?

Mann: I think martial arts, in any form, is great for kids to start. It was just little things that culture teaches you early. Bowing, yes sir, no sir, yes ma’am, no ma’am. Just having respect for others. When you fight somebody it’s a lot of tension and a lot of emotions. So you always end it with a bow and respect for one another, which I always appreciated about it.

Me: Are there lessons in Taekwondo that you feel are helpful in football?

Mann: Absolutely. The commitment for me was the big one that I learned early. I was so committed to that and my parents held me accountable with it and that kind of translated to every aspect of school or football or whatever it may be. That was the main part I took from it.

Me: Any athletic part of it translate?

Mann: Yeah, the lower body. It’s mostly kicking in Taekwondo so just getting coordinated with my feet. I feel like if I hadn’t done that, I would have been a lot less coordinated. And body awareness. You do a lot of stretching and balance and kicking and all that stuff. I think just total awareness of your body.

Me: So it set a base for you a little bit?

Mann: Absolutely.

Me: Do you miss it a little bit?

Mann: I do miss it. I kind of wish I still did it. I’ve thought about it a couple times in the offseason, taking it back up again. Mostly for the stretches and being flexible. That is by far the most flexible I’ve been. I’ve thought about taking it up a few times.

Me: Thanks, man. I appreciate it.

Mann: Yeah, absolutely.

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The Martial Arts Trilogy is comprised of three concertos, each inspired by iconic Chinese martial arts films: “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” “The Banquet,” and “Hero.” In this unique performance, Tan Dun aimed to represent these films’ complex emotions, drawing the audience into a world of love, sacrifice, and heroism.

The Opening Act – “Water, the God of Life”

The concert began with an enchanting portrayal of the “God of Life,” symbolized by the element of water. The role of Water, accompanied by the sounds of waves, set the stage for an emotional journey that delved into the mysteries of human existence. Tan Dun, a master of musical composition, used the symphonic orchestra and three personified musical instruments—violin, cello, and piano—to narrate these stories.

Cellist Nie Jiapeng plays at the event in Beijing. JIANG DONG/CHINA DAILY

Musical Personifications

Intriguingly, each instrument in the performance represented a character from one of the three martial arts films. The violin embodied the spirit of Jade from “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” who sacrificed her life for her love of martial arts. The cello portrayed Snow from “Hero,” a character who sacrificed her life for her country, while the piano took on the persona of Empress Wan from “The Banquet,” who sacrificed love for desire and revenge.

This innovative approach allowed the instruments to become storytellers themselves, expressing the characters’ emotions and journeys without the need for lyrics. Through the harmonious union of sight and sound, Tan Dun created an opera-like experience for the audience, transcending linguistic barriers.

A Tribute to Chinese Martial Arts Philosophy

Tan Dun’s creation is a homage to the profound philosophy of Chinese martial arts, where love, honor, and sacrifice play pivotal roles in the stories of the characters. It explores the timeless themes of selflessness and devotion, resonating with the audience on a deeply emotional level.

And pianist Sun Jaya (middle) and Tan during the rehearsal. JIANG DONG/CHINA DAILY

A Journey of Inspiration and Connection

The collaboration for this extraordinary performance was truly remarkable. The China Philharmonic Orchestra, under Tan Dun’s masterful direction, joined forces with three virtuosic soloists: violinist Daniel Hope, cellist Nie Jiapeng, and pianist Sun Jaya. Their collective passion for the project created a powerful connection, as they shared the stage in China, a place where their musical careers first converged.

The Beauty of Musical Expression

Tan Dun’s ability to convey compelling drama through his music is awe-inspiring. The Martial Arts Trilogy’s evolution from film to a full-fledged spiritual opera exemplifies the transformative power of music, capable of narrating complex stories independently.

This remarkable performance, part of the 25th and 26th Beijing Music Festival, serves as a testament to the universal language of music. It showcases how a shared passion for artistic expression can bridge cultural divides and create profound connections, leaving audiences in awe and artists inspired.

As the echoes of the Martial Arts Trilogy continue to resonate, the world eagerly awaits further creations from the brilliant mind of Tan Dun, a composer who effortlessly combines tradition with innovation, and East with West, enriching the global cultural tapestry.

[Source: China Daily Global, Updated: 2023-10-13]

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Gonzales’s journey to this heroic moment was not without its challenges. Just three months before the incident, he had been arrested on a firearm possession charge that he vehemently disputed. Despite being out on bond at the time of the incident, he couldn’t ignore the call to action he felt when he witnessed a police officer struggling with a suspect on the streets of San Antonio, Texas.

While driving to the martial arts gym where he both trains and volunteers, Gonzales noticed what appeared to be a police pursuit. A man was fleeing from an officer, and the situation was escalating. Gonzales, with his wife Rachel Ortiz and four children in the car, made a life-changing decision. He slowed down and assessed the situation, realizing that the officer was losing control of the suspect.

Seeing an opportunity to make a difference, Gonzales parked his vehicle, and with his wife recording the incident, he approached the scene. He introduced himself to the officer, Officer Nathaniel Linville, and declared his intention to assist the officer rather than hinder him. With the suspect on his back and Officer Linville struggling to control him, Gonzales stepped in by using his knowledge of Brazilian jiu-jitsu to stabilize the situation.

The suspect, Jack Evans, who was wanted for unauthorized use of a vehicle, was in a position to potentially reach for Officer Linville’s firearm. In a crucial moment, Evans managed to grab hold of the officer’s gun. Gonzales acted swiftly, prying the suspect’s fingers away from the weapon, preventing a potentially catastrophic outcome.

Even after this intervention, the scuffle was far from over. Evans continued to resist, prompting Gonzales to employ various jiu-jitsu techniques to maintain control. He utilized his training to subdue Evans, assisting Officer Linville in handcuffing the suspect and ultimately ending the threat.

To protect himself, given his past as an ex-convict, Gonzales had his wife record the entire incident. However, when Rachel Ortiz posted the video on Facebook, it quickly went viral, amassing over 56 million views. Among those who marveled at Gonzales’s intervention was Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor Rener Gracie, a fourth-degree black belt, who praised Gonzales for his technique and calm communication during the incident, hailing him as a legend in the making.

Mark Anthony Gonzales’s heroic act not only demonstrated the profound impact of martial arts training but also served as a reminder of the value of individuals who are willing to step in and make a difference when the need arises. His actions embody the core principles of Brazilian jiu-jitsu—morality, courage, and benevolence—and have earned him recognition as a real-life hero.

Original Article on Readers Digest

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Russia is a strong taekwondo nation, and its athletes have won multiple medals at the Olympics and world championships. However, they have been excluded from international competition since the start of the war in Ukraine in February.

The WTF’s decision to allow Russian athletes to compete again has been met with mixed reactions. Some people believe that it is unfair to punish athletes for the actions of their government, while others believe that it is important to send a message that Russia will not be allowed to participate in international sporting events as long as it is at war with Ukraine.

Ukraine has said that it will not compete in the world championships if Russian athletes are allowed to participate. The Ukrainian Taekwondo Federation has called the WTF’s decision “a slap in the face to all Ukrainians who are suffering from the Russian invasion.”

The WTF has said that it understands Ukraine’s concerns, but that it believes that the decision to allow Russian athletes to compete is the right one. The federation said that it is committed to “peace and unity in the taekwondo community” and that it hopes that the world championships can be a “platform for dialogue and understanding.”

It remains to be seen whether Ukraine will follow through on its threat to boycott the world championships. If it does, it would be a major blow to the WTF, which is hoping that the event will be a success.

The decision to allow Russian athletes to compete in the world championships is a controversial one, and it is likely to continue to be debated in the coming weeks and months. It remains to be seen how the decision will impact the taekwondo community and the war in Ukraine.

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“The recurring thing we hear from graduating students in the club is that taekwondo is something that MIT students are allowed to be bad at and then learn to get better,” says head coach and instructor Dan Chuang. “That’s important because high levels of performance are always expected for MIT students, but this is something they’re supposed to be bad at in the beginning.”

Chuang says that the club’s welcoming atmosphere and supportive environment allows students to learn and grow at their own pace. “We’re not trying to churn out black belts,” he says. “We’re trying to help students find something they enjoy and that’s good for them.”

In addition to the physical and mental benefits of taekwondo, the club also provides students with a strong sense of community. “The team is really tight-knit,” says recent club president Jeffery Li ’23. “We all support each other, both in and out of the gym.”

Li says that the club has been a great way to meet new people and make friends. “I’ve made some of my closest friends through the club,” he says. “We’re always there for each other, no matter what.”

If you’re looking for a way to clear your head, get in shape, and meet new people, the MIT Sport Taekwondo Club is a great option. The club is open to students of all skill levels, and it offers a variety of classes and activities to fit everyone’s needs. So what are you waiting for? Come check it out!

Source:

https://news.mit.edu/2023/taekwondo-mit-sport-club-0613

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The Koreans took an early lead and never looked back, thanks to strong performances from all four members of the team. Kim Tae-hun, Kim Jun-ho, Lee Dae-ho, and Lee Seung-woo all won their matches, helping Korea to secure the victory.

Iran put up a good fight, but they were simply outclassed by the Koreans. The Iranians won two matches, but they were unable to stop the Korean juggernaut.

The victory is a major boost for South Korean taekwondo, which has been struggling in recent years. The Koreans have not won a gold medal in the men’s team event at the World University Games since 2015.

The win is also a personal triumph for Kim Tae-hun, who was named the tournament MVP. Kim is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, and he is considered to be one of the best taekwondo fighters in the world.

The Korean men’s taekwondo team is now the clear favorite to win gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. They have the talent, the experience, and the hunger to succeed.

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A Prelude of Optimism: The year 2007 was characterized by an air of cautious optimism, as signs of change emerged from the shadows of animosity. The relationship between the United States and North Korea had long been marred by deep-seated mistrust and simmering conflicts. Yet, glimmers of possibility shone through, prompting whispers of a new era in bilateral relations. Against this backdrop, the Taekwondo Times of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, took the audacious step of organizing a landmark tour, seeking to utilize the power of sports and cultural exchange to bridge the divide.

The Arrival of the Masters: On a fateful day, the 18 North Korean Taekwondo masters descended upon Los Angeles International Airport, the gateway to a transformative journey. Accompanied by American and South Korean practitioners, this diverse assembly of martial artists embodied the essence of unity and harmony. As they prepared to captivate audiences with their awe-inspiring feats, the weight of history hung in the air, for this tour was destined to transcend the realm of physical prowess.

Political Tightrope: While the Taekwondo performances dazzled spectators, the tour unfolded against the backdrop of intricate political tightrope walking. Diplomatic circles brimmed with speculation, drawing parallels to the storied “ping pong diplomacy” that thawed US-China relations decades earlier. The very fabric of international diplomacy was being woven anew, as cultural exchanges revealed themselves as potent catalysts for dialogue and understanding. It was a time of delicate maneuvering, where the aspirations for peace and cooperation stood in delicate equilibrium with the geopolitical complexities at play.

The Echoes of Ping Pong Diplomacy: Echoes of history reverberated through the halls of time, drawing parallels to the “ping pong diplomacy” that had changed the course of nations in the 1970s. As the tour progressed, experts and scholars observed the parallel trajectories of these cultural exchanges. The fabled table tennis matches between the United States and China had ignited a chain reaction of diplomatic breakthroughs, fostering an environment of détente and paving the way for historic meetings between world leaders. The Taekwondo tour stood as a testament to the enduring power of sports diplomacy—a phenomenon capable of transcending barriers and healing wounds.

Unlocking New Horizons: Beyond the mesmerizing displays of physical prowess, the Taekwondo tour accomplished far more than met the eye. It symbolized a shifting paradigm in US-North Korea relations, an embrace of dialogue and cultural understanding amidst longstanding hostilities. The tour offered a glimpse into the daily lives and aspirations of North Korean athletes, challenging preconceived notions and fostering empathy. It was a transformative journey, not only for those who witnessed the performances but also for the participants themselves, whose perceptions and perspectives were forever altered.

The Legacy of Reconciliation: The impact of the 2007 Taekwondo tour reverberated far beyond its culmination. It ignited a renaissance of cultural contacts between the two nations, marking the rekindling of ties long estranged. Reports surfaced of North Korean boxers preparing to compete in the World Boxing Championships, while the New York Philharmonic contemplated an invitation to perform in Pyongyang. These developments exemplified a modest renaissance, wherein cultural exchange paved the way for a new era of understanding and cooperation.

Conclusion: The historic Taekwondo tour of 2007 etched itself indelibly into the annals of diplomacy. As martial artists gracefully soared through the air, breaking barriers both physical and metaphorical, a flicker of hope emerged. Against the backdrop of tense geopolitics, the power of sports and cultural exchange revealed its unparalleled ability to forge connections, dissolve enmity, and unlock the doors of understanding. The spirit of reconciliation kindled during those thirteen transformative days continues to inspire, reminding us that even amidst the greatest challenges, the indomitable human spirit can triumph and foster a more harmonious world.

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Despite encountering her fair share of sexism in the male-dominated realm of Tae Kwon Do, Vallandingham has chosen to use it as fuel for her fire. Boys in her class used to say things like, “Rayna, you kick like a girl,” but she took it as a compliment rather than an insult. In fact, she believes girls kick with beauty and unmatched flexibility. And let’s be honest, they do!

Vallandingham’s resilience and determination have grown stronger in the face of adversity. She admits that the experiences have helped her evolve as a person and taught her the value of perseverance and discipline that martial arts instills.

It all started when she was just a shy two-year-old girl hiding under chairs and benches at her local dojo in Southern California. Fast forward a few years, and she became the one to beat. Vallandingham won her first world title in Tae Kwon Do at the impressive age of 9. Talk about a rising star!

Credit for her success goes to her incredible support system—her parents and her grandfather, whom she affectionately calls Nana. Grandpa Nana has been her rock, taking her to the dojo every day since she was two. He has always believed in her, calling her his “kaur” or “lioness.” So much so that Vallandingham had the word “kaur” tattooed on her, serving as a constant reminder of her strength and empowerment.

But that’s not all. Vallandingham is on a mission to break boundaries and inspire others. Not only is she making waves in martial arts, but she’s also making her mark in the entertainment industry and social media. As an Indian American, she is proud to represent her community and pave the way for future generations. She dreams of becoming the first female Indian lead in an action movie, just like her role model, the amazing Lucy Liu.

With over a million followers on TikTok, Vallandingham’s talent has caught the attention of many. Alongside her martial arts accolades, she has ventured into stunt work, music videos, podcasting, and choreography. In fact, she recently teamed up with the legendary Bruce Lee’s family to launch their signature line of bomber jackets. How cool is that?

The day the Bruce Lee account followed her on social media, Vallandingham felt an overwhelming sense of achievement. She has always aspired to be the “female Bruce Lee,” even though some skeptics said it couldn’t be done. But she’s determined to prove them wrong and establish herself as a renowned figure in her own right.

Rayna Vallandingham is a force to be reckoned with, and we can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next. She’s an inspiration to all, showing us that there are no limits to what we can achieve if we believe in ourselves. So, let’s kick like a girl and break barriers together!

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