Tag: taekwon-do Page 1 of 5

Korean Martial Arts – a brief history

Korean Martial Arts – a brief history

Korean Martial Arts

The history of Korean martial arts, often referred to as “Muye” or “Muyedobotongji,” is rich and diverse, with a lineage that dates back thousands of years. They have been influenced by various factors, including indigenous Korean fighting systems, Chinese martial arts, Japanese martial arts, and more.

Here’s an overview of the history of Korean martial arts:

  1. Ancient Korea:
    • Korea has a long history of indigenous martial arts, some of which were documented in ancient texts such as the “Samguk Sagi” and “Samguk Yusa.” These texts mention the use of martial arts in battles and competitions as far back as the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC – 668 AD).
  2. Influence from China:
    • During the Three Kingdoms period, Korean warriors were exposed to Chinese martial arts techniques through cultural exchanges and conflicts with Chinese forces.
  3. Silla Dynasty:
    • The Silla Kingdom (57 BC – 935 AD) is known for developing a unique martial art called “Hwa Rang Do.” The Hwa Rang were an elite group of young warriors who trained in various combat skills, ethics, and philosophy.
  4. Goryeo Dynasty:
    • The Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) saw further development of Korean martial arts. The “Muyejebo,” an illustrated manual, documented various martial techniques, weapons, and training methods during this period.
  5. Joseon Dynasty:
    • The Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) contributed significantly to the codification and organization of martial arts. The “Muyejebo Beonyeok” (1599) and “Muyedobotongji” (1790) are important texts that outlined the various martial techniques of the time.
  6. Japanese Occupation:
    • During the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910-1945), many aspects of Korean culture, including martial arts, were suppressed. Some Korean martial arts masters continued to practice in secret.
  7. Post-World War II:
    • After World War II and the liberation of Korea from Japanese rule, martial arts experienced a revival. Various martial arts schools and organizations were established. Taekwondo, a Korean martial art known for its high kicks and dynamic movements, was officially recognized in 1955.
  8. International Recognition:
  9. Other Korean Martial Arts:
    • Besides Taekwondo, there are many other Korean martial arts with distinct styles and techniques. Some of these include Hapkido, Tang Soo Do, Kuk Sool Won, and more.
  10. Modern Developments:
    • In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional Korean martial arts and their historical roots. Efforts to preserve and promote these arts continue.

Korean martial arts are diverse, encompassing striking techniques, grappling, self-defense, and traditional weapon forms. They emphasize not only physical prowess but also mental discipline and moral values.

Their history reflects the nation’s cultural heritage and its enduring commitment to preserving these ancient traditions.

korean martial arts

What are some of the characteristics of the different martial arts of Korea ?

  1. Taekwondo:
    • Kicks: Taekwondo is renowned for its high, fast, and powerful kicks, including the roundhouse/turning kick, sidekick, and axe/downward kick.
    • Emphasis on speed and agility: Taekwondo practitioners focus on quick and precise movements.
    • Forms or Patterns (Poomsae / Tul): Practitioners learn a series of choreographed movements to develop technique and discipline.
    • Competitive Sparring: Taekwondo features Olympic-style sparring (WT), with points awarded for controlled and accurate kicks or Traditional type sparring (ITF) which also features more emphasis on hand techniques as well as kicks.
  2. Hapkido:
    • Joint locks and throws: Hapkido places a strong emphasis on joint manipulation, throws, and locks for self-defense.
    • Circular motions: Techniques often use circular movements to redirect an opponent’s force.
    • Pressure points: Hapkido practitioners may target specific pressure points for incapacitation.
    • Practical self-defense: Hapkido is known for its practical and versatile self-defense applications.
  3. Tang Soo Do:
    • Hand and foot techniques: Tang Soo Do incorporates both hand and foot techniques, often focusing on powerful strikes.
    • Forms (Hyung): Forms help develop discipline, balance, and technique.
    • Traditional uniforms: Practitioners wear doboks with specific belt colors to denote rank.
    • Focus on discipline and respect: Tang Soo Do emphasizes the mental and spiritual aspects of martial arts.
  4. Kuk Sool Won:
    • Comprehensive system: Kuk Sool Won encompasses a wide range of techniques, including strikes, joint locks, throws, and weapons.
    • Forms (Hyung): Practitioners learn forms that include various techniques and combinations.
    • Weapons training: Kuk Sool Won includes training with traditional Korean weapons like the staff, sword, and fan.
    • Healing techniques: It incorporates traditional Korean healing methods and acupressure.
  5. Gumdo (Kumdo):
    • Swordsmanship: Gumdo focuses on the use of the Korean sword, known as the “katana.”
    • Forms (Hyung): Practitioners learn various forms that simulate combat scenarios with the sword.
    • Cutting practice: Students often practice precision cutting with a sharp blade on bamboo or straw targets.
    • Emphasis on discipline and etiquette: Gumdo places importance on the mental aspects of martial arts.
  6. Sunmudo:
    • Meditation and breathing: Sunmudo combines martial arts with meditation and deep breathing exercises for physical and mental well-being.
    • Circular movements: Techniques involve circular motions and flowing forms.
    • Stress relief and relaxation: Sunmudo aims to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
    • Minimal contact sparring: Sunmudo typically avoids heavy sparring, focusing more on meditation and energy cultivation.

These are just a few examples of Korean martial arts, each with its own unique characteristics, techniques, and philosophies. Additionally, there are many more traditional and modern variations within the Korean martial arts spectrum.

Happy 68th Anniversary Taekwondo

Happy 68th Anniversary Taekwondo

Happy 68th AnniversaryOn April 11th, 2023 we celebrate the Happy 68th Anniversary Taekwondo with practitioners from around the World and on social media.

The name Taekwondo is derived from the Korean word “Tae” meaning foot, “Kwon” meaning fist and “Do” meaning way of. So, literally Taekwondo means “the way of the foot and fist”.

Whilst various versions of Taekwondo history would have it dating back centuries, the name Taekwondo, however, has only been used since April 11th, 1955.

CHECK OUR TAEKWONDO HISTORY PAGE

It is important to note, this is several years before the formation of the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), and even more years before the existence of the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF).

This original TaeKwonDo began as military training tool for actively serving forces, which later became a martial art accessible to the public, and today features a large sports component, as can be evidenced by the many tournaments, including the Olympic Games.

While a combination of politics, nationalism and other factors saw Taekwon-Do split into these 2 major streams decades ago, not to mention the abundance of offshoots and variations that exist today, we should embrace that it is a celebration for us all.

We were fortunate in Australia to have had the opportunity to attend many General Choi Hong Hi seminars, Happy 68th Anniversaryparticularly through the 1990’s, when he was a regular visitor to our shores, and then with the next generation of grandmasters and pioneers, as well as his son own Grandmaster Choi Jung Hwa.

Today thousands of instructors carry on the legacy of those original pioneers in all varieties of Taekwondo, whether as a sport or martial art, or a combination of both.

Visit the General Choi Hong Hi seminars page to view some of those seminars, as they are archival in nature, sound and picture quality may vary, we hope you will enjoy them.

Subscribe to our YouTube page to see more seminar clips as we launch them, along with lots of other great items.

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Flexibility – Why it’s important and how to develop it

Flexibility – Why it’s important and how to develop it.

flexibility

Flexibility offers numerous benefits, including:

  1. Improved range of motion: Flexibility training can increase the motion of your joints, allowing you to move more freely and perform daily activities with greater ease.
  2. Reduced risk of injury: Flexible muscles and joints are less prone to injury as they can better withstand sudden movements and unexpected stress.
  3. Improved posture: Poor posture can lead to pain and other musculoskeletal injuries. Flexibility training can improve posture by stretching and lengthening the muscles surrounding the spine and other joints.
  4. Decreased muscle tension: Flexibility training can help to reduce muscle tension and ease muscle soreness, allowing you to recover faster after exercise.
  5. Enhanced athletic performance: Greater flexibility can improve athletic performance by allowing you to move faster, lunge further, and jump higher.
  6. Improved balance and coordination: Better flexibility can increase bodily awareness and control, improving your balance and coordination.
  7. Reduced stress: Stretching and flexibility exercises can help to relax your body and mind, reducing stress levels and promoting overall well-being.

Overall, flexibility training is an essential component of any fitness routine and offers numerous physical and mental health benefits.

flexibility 2

There are various ways to improve flexibility, including:

  1. Stretching: Stretching exercises, such as dynamic stretching and static stretching, can elongate your muscles and help to increase your range of motion.
  2. Yoga: Practicing yoga is an effective way to improve flexibility as it incorporates stretching and can help to increase stability and balance.
  3. Foam Rolling: Foam rolling is a method of self-myofascial release that can help to release muscle tension and increase flexibility.
  4. Pilates: Pilates exercises focus on building core strength and stabilization, which can help to improve flexibility in the spine and other areas of the body.
  5. Warm-up exercises: Doing a warm-up exercise before starting any physical activity can prepare your muscles and joints for the upcoming workout and can prevent injury.
  6. Regular exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as light jogging, cycling, or swimming. These exercises encourage blood flow, loosening up the joints and muscles.

It’s worth noting that it’s important to listen to your body and not push too hard as overstretching can cause injury. Gradual and consistent progress is crucial to achieve long-term gains in flexibility.

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Personal Training Courses & Fitness Courses

As our name suggests, Global Fitness Institute specializes in Personal Training courses and Fitness Instructor courses .

For those people looking to save over $1000, you might consider signing up for our Personal Training Course Combo , which includes both the SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness & SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness.

Our largely online fitness courses offer a flexible approach to learning, including reading material, instructional and informational videos, interactive practical tasks which are all accessible online, allowing you to study from home, at your own pace.

Sports Courses

Global Fitness Institute offers a number of Sports courses from Certificate to Diploma levels.

Double Diploma of Sport (Coaching & Development) is the best option if you want to achieve the most efficient outcome for your time and to get more bang for your buck, SAVING YOU OVER $1000.

ITF New Zealand Black Belt grading

New Zealand ITF Black Belt Grading

New Zealand ITF Black Belt Grading

New Zealand ITF gradings

A successful weekend of New Zealand ITF Black Belt gradings and training was conducted by Master Michael Muleta, 8th Degree Under Secretary of the International Taekwon-Do Federation and President/Technical Director of United ITF Taekwon-Do.

The training and testing events were held in Queenstown, New Zealand and hosted by Kman’s Martial Arts, which is operated by multiple ITF World Champion, Kerry (K’man) McEvoy.

Students were put through a vigorous series of exercises and drills, over the course of 2 days, leading up to the final showcase on Saturday 4th March, at Kman’s Martial Arts centre.

The day consisted of lots of sparring, breaking, patterns, step sparring and demonstrations of skill sets. All performed with much spirit and skill to successful complete the testing process.

The testing panel consisted of Master Michael Muleta, Sabum Kerry McEvoy and special guest Sensei Barry Potter.

Congratulations to our newest New Zealand ITF Black Belts :

  • Diego Hernández, 3rd Degree
  • Marcin Kukialka, 1st Degree
  • Josh Bleakley, 1st Degree

 

New Zealand ITF 2 New Zealand ITF 3

 

Gold medal

Eureka Australia Strikes Gold

Eureka Australia Strikes Gold

Aussie team Eureka

Eureka, its Gold and Bronze for the Green and Gold. Congratulations to all who were part of the small but successful Australian team who competed in the recent ITF World Championships in the Netherlands.

After a year delay due to the infamous lockdowns, the ITF finally got a chance to stage the ITF World Championships in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Without domestic tournaments for more than 2 years, preparation for this year’s National Team was not as organized as normal.

Due to restrictions, financial hardship and travel reluctance, the team was a lot smaller than past Aussie Teams, and also one of the least experienced, with 5 of the 7 participants attending their first ITF World Championships.

Gold medal

But, oh boy, what an outcome we got, with Charlise Grossel of Canberra, stunning us all on Day 1, winning the Female Power Breaking late in the afternoon. It was a truly amazing result for the World Champs debutant.

We had high hopes that we may be able to snag a medal or two in the Men’s sparring, with the very experienced Zdybel’s getting on the mat. It wasn’t to be, and although both acquitted themselves well, unfortunately they did not make it through to the medal rounds.

So Day 2 ended, with everyone still on a high from that awesome Gold medal on the opening day. The general feeling in the camp was that we probably wouldn’t get any more medals.

Day 3 proved us wrong, the Men’s Power Breaking Team stepped up and became Bronzed Aussies with literally a smashing performance, coming in Third Place. To be honest, as great a result as it was, they were really only a whisker away from cleaning up the Gold again.

Bronzed Aussies

So all in all, a fantastic result at a very enjoyable and well organized and run event.

Congratulations to the squad who represented Australia. Phil Zdybel combined his competing in Sparring, Patterns, Power and Teams, with coaching other team members. Joshua Zdybel also competed in the same events. Jordan Steele and Kirby Ellis took part in both Power events, while Grace Ellis competed in Patterns. Then of course there was Australia’s new Golden Girl, Charlise Grossel competing in Patterns and winning gold in the Power ……. Eureka !!!

Katrina Cubit worked very hard Umpiring for 3 days, whilst INO President Master Michael Muleta was part of the 4-person Tournament Committee coordinating the overall event.

So Australia, and more specifically United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia (INO#23) as the National Organization, was well represented and people knew Australia was there….. oi oi oi.

 

SEE FULL RESULTS HERE

 

AUSTRALIAN RESULTS

Charlise Grossel – Gold, Junior Female Power

Phil Zdybel, Josh Zdybel, Jordan Steele, Kirby Ellis – Bronze, Adult Male Power

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New Black Belts

New Black Belts – Congratulations

new black belts

Congratulations to all the new black belts who were tested and successfully promoted over the past 2 weeks in both Newcastle and Rockhampton.

Master Michael Muleta, 8th Degree, travelled to Newcastle, NSW early June to conduct some Black Belt Examinations and an ITF Masterclass at the Titan Martial Arts school. Some black belts had also been promoted the week before, by Sabum Michael Omay.

Those promoted included:

  • Michael Omay 6th Degree
  • Scott Gannon, 5th Degree
  • Sam Wilson, 5th Degree
  • Alex Sorensen, 4th Degree
  • Simon Aliendi, 3rd Degree
  • James Magill, 3rd Degree
  • Chris Streets, 3rd Degree
  • Archer Woller, 2nd degree
  • Tim Kerkhoff, 2nd Degree
  • Maclean Davis, 1st Degree
  • Travis Charlton, 1st Degree
  • Sapphire Tabas, 1st Degree
  • Tiarne Sattler, 1st Degree
  • Kalleah Sattler, 1st Degree
  • Amy Burke, 1st Degree
  • Jerrome Teasdale, 1st Degree

The following week, Master Muleta travelled to Rockhampton for more Masterclasses and a Black Belt grading. The successful new Black belt promotion was:

  • Nikki Olzard, 3rd Degree

new black belts rockhampton

The next round of Black Belt exams and Masterclasses with Master Muleta will be held in Canberra, ACT over the weekend on 8-10th, July 2022.

Those interested in attending can REGISTER HERE

 

To book your ITF Black Belt testing or ITF Masterclass with Master Michael Muleta for your school CONTACT US

ITF Sparring zoom

ITF Sparring Videos

ITF Sparring Videos

ITF Sparring Michael Muleta

We are pleased to feature a series of videos from our recent ITF Sparring Seminar on zoom, with Master Michael Muleta and Sabum Justin Chin.

We’ve released the first couple of videos here, and will be releasing more over the next couple of weeks.

If you want to get your first, directly to your inbox, please support by subscribing to our video channel, and leave us a like if you found the video useful.

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The seminar was aimed at those new to ITF Sparring, but also has many valuable tips and explanations for those who have been in the ring a few times.

Instructors may also find it helpful, with ideas of how to explain various concepts.

Videos include warm ups, rules, strategies and techniques.

To see the rest, subscribe to our video channel

 

To organize a seminar for your school or organization, either in person (when possible) or via zoom, be sure to contact us.

Seminar topics may range from:

  • Fundamentals and Technical Training
  • ITF Patterns
  • ITF Sparring
  • Self Defense
  • Philosophy, Ethics
  • Tips for running a school or organization
  • Public Speaking, topic of your choice
  • Health and Fitness related (training, nutrition, motivation etc)

Check out some of our other recent Zoom workshops

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ITF Online Nationals 2021

Online Nationals 2021

united itf online

 

With much of the country still in lockdown, and interstate borders closed, our executive committee have taken the decision to make our annual Australian Championships the 2021 ITF Online Nationals.

The event is open to all ITF practitioners, regardless off age, rank or affiliation.

We ask all instructors to do their best to support this event with as many enthusiastic students as possible.

As it is now an online nationals, and after the wonderful support of our previous online events, we also welcome international participants to take part.

Events will include:

  • Individual Patterns
  • Team Patterns (3 people – mixed gender is ok)
  • Self Defense (against 2 attackers, any age)
  • Multi Breaking

REGISTER HERE

Medals will be posted out to head instructors of all winners after the final results have been announced.

United ITF Online Nationals

Deadline:

All registrations must be made by Midnight Sunday 31st October, 2021

All videos must be submitted prior to midnight Saturday 6th November, 2021

Results will be announced November 14th

Be sure to read through the event rules

Check out all the action from our 2020 United ITF Online Nationals, with 14 countries taking part, it was an amazing success.

Event sponsored by – First Aid Oz

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general choi hong hi seminar

General Choi Death Anniversary

General Choi Death Anniversary

General Choi Death Anniversary

General Choi Hong Hi – Founder of Taekwon-DoToday marks another General Choi Death Anniversary marking a further year since the passing of the legendary Founder of Taekwon-Do, General Choi Hong Hi.

Grandmasters, Masters and students around the globe will reflect on the General’s influence and continue to keep his legacy alive through the continued promotion and growth of ITF Taekwon-Do

In 2000, General Choi, the Founder of Taekwon-Do, was announced by Taekwon-Do Times magazine, as the most influential martial artist on the century.

General Choi ITF Taekwon-Do

General Choi Hong Hi

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General Choi is regarded as the Founder of Taekwon-do and served as President of the International Taekwon-do Federation (I.T.F.) for many years. He sadly passed away in June 2002, after a long battle with cancer.

The Taekwon-Do Founder, General Choi Hong Hi (dec) was born on November 9th, 1918 in the rugged and harsh area of Hwa Dae, Myong Chung District, in what is now D.P.R of Korea . A sickly but willful child, he was expelled from school at the age of 12 for leading a protest against the occupying Japanese.

Later, Choi Hong Hi travelled to Japan, where he studied English, mathematics, and karate. In Kyoto, he met a fellow Korean with the surname Kim, who was a karate instructor and taught Choi this martial art. Choi also learned Shotokan under Gichin Funakoshi,  the founder of Shotokan karate-do, perhaps the most widely known style of karate, and is known as a “father of modern karate”

Just before he had left Korea, Choi had a disagreement with a wrestler named Hu, and the possibility of a future confrontation inspired him to train. In his own words, he said “I would imagine that these were the techniques I would use to defend myself against the wrestler, Mr. Hu, if he did attempt to carry out his promise to tear me limb from limb when I eventually returned to Korea”.

With two years of concentrated training, Choi attained the rank of first degree black belt, and then 2nd Degree soon after. These techniques, together with Taek Kyon (foot techniques), were the forerunners of modern Taekwon-Do.

General Choi’s military career began in 1937, when he was forced, as were all Korean soldiers, to join the Japanese army as a student volunteer, during Japan’s occupancy of Korea.

On his return to Korea in 1942, he hid to avoid conscription into the Japanese Army, but was eventually caught, and in October 1943 began his basic training. He was soon arrested during an attempt to escape and join the underground Korean Liberation Army. Sent to Pyung Yang prison for treason, he was due to have been executed on August 18 1945, three days after Korea was liberated.

While in prison, to alleviate the boredom and keep physically fit, Choi began practicing this art in the solitude of his cell. In a short time, even his cellmate and jailer became students of his.

In 1945, Choi enrolled in the Koreans Military Academy, later to be commissioned to the rank of second lieutenant in 1946. By 1948, he had been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and was a Taekyon instructor for the military troops of the R.O.K. and the American Military Police School based in Korea.

On the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, Choi hurried back to Korea, where he was ordered to set up an officer training academy. In 1952 he was appointed chief of staff of the First Corps, and soon found himself briefing General Douglas MacArthur, the Supreme Commander of the United Nations troops, on the situation at the front line.

From 1946 to 1951, Choi received promotions to first lieutenant, captain, major, lieutenant colonel, colonel, and then brigadier general, becoming Chief of staff to the Korean Army.

The year 1953 was an eventful one for the General, in both his military career and in the progress of the new martial art. He became the author of the first authoritative book on military intelligence in Korea.
 
He organized and activated the crack 29th Infantry Division at Cheju Island, which eventually became the spearhead of Taekwon-Do in the military and established the Oh Do Kwan (Gym of My Way) where Korean soldiers were trained in General Choi’s new martial art to become the pioneer Taekwon-do instructors. It was also a opportunity to develop the Taekyon and Karate techniques into a modern system of Taekwon-Do.
 
He went on to command Chung Do Kwan (Gym of the Blue Wave), the largest civilian gym in Korea; 

In 1954 Choi was promoted to the rank of Major General.

During his military career, General Choi constantly researched various martial arts, mainly Taekyon, Kung Fu and Karate – drawing from each to create the original version of Taekwon-do.

In 1955 General Choi led the Korean Army’s Taekwon-do demonstration team on a tour of China and Vietnam to promote his form of unarmed combat. After breathtaking displays, both these countries adopted General Choi’s Taekwon-do as an integral part of their soldier’s military training.

In 1961, the Korean Taekwon-do Association was formed with General Choi as its President. During the next few years, he led Taekwon-do demonstration teams throughout the world. In 1965, the South Korean government gave approval to General Choi’s martial art and declared it as Korea’s National martial art.

On March 22nd, 1966, General Choi Hong Hi (dec) formed the International Taekwon-do Federation (I.T.F) in Seoul, Korea. At the time it had associations in Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, West Germany, America, Turkey, Italy, Egypt and Korea. Taekwon-Do was taken up by several foreign armies, and was taught at West Point in America. During the Vietnam War, the Taekwon-Do training of Korean and other foreign soldiers was said to have had a demoralizing effect on the Viet Cong.

In 1971, the South Korean president Park Chung Hee began to use Taekwon-Do as anti-communist political propaganda. Choi, fiercely against this, went into exile in Canada. He continued to teach Taekwon-Do throughout the world, including in North Korea, and in 1974 he organised the first Taekwon-Do world championship in Montreal.

All the while he had to endure death threats from Korean Central Intelligence, attempts to kidnap him and attempts on his life by armed assassins. On one occasion his son and daughter, who had stayed behind in South Korea, were kidnapped and their lives threatened if Choi did not return to Korea. His response was “I choose Taekwon-Do over my son”. They were freed.

General Choi died of cancer on 15 June 2002 in Pyongyang, North Korea. Choi is listed in the Taekwondo Hall of Fame with various titles: “Father of Taekwon-Do,” “Founder and First President of the International Taekwon-Do Federation,” and “Founder of Oh Do Kwan.” Choi is survived by his wife, Choi Joon Hee; his son, Choi Jung Hwa; two daughters, Sunny and Meeyun; and several grandchildren.

We ask that you take a moment on the occasion of General Choi Death Anniversary to reflect on how Taekwon-Do has impacted your own life.

– excerpts from ‘Taekwondo – The Korean Art of Self Defence’ – General Choi Hong Hi

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Sydney, Australia 1993

 

Sunshine Coast, Australia 1995

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Umpiring Patterns

Umpiring Patterns

united itf umpiring

National Umpire Course Notes

Umpiring Patterns

These are some recommended guidelines for Umpiring Patterns competitions, for domestic and local events based on the ITF Tournament Rules.

Note : The ‘Official’ ITF Rules are only applicable to ITF World Championships, and as such much of it is not relevant to in-house, local, state and national level competitions.

A National Organization, or any competition for that matter, should adopt rules that are specific to:

  • the event/s being conducted.
  • the ages of participants
  • the experience levels of participants
  • the objective of the competition
  • the facilities being used
  • the schedule / time available
  • the umpires/officials available

Purpose of the ITF Umpiring Rules

  • Clarify responsibilities of officials
  • Outline scoring criteria for each event
  • Determine eligibility of competitors
  • Outline operational procedures of all events
  • Assist competitors and coaches in event preparation
  • Ensure the safety of all competitors and officials

Characteristics of a good Umpire:

  • Be consistent and fair in all judgements
  • Base all decisions on the Rules of the competition
  • Be assertive and confident in all decisions
  • Display Punctuality and work ethic
  • Be professional in appearance and behaviour
  • Be willing to receive constructive feedback and advice from Tournament Directors
  • Have a thorough knowledge of the rules – updated regularly
  • Integrity, honesty and strength of character
  • Ability to follow instructions
  • To be flexible and adaptable in various official roles
  • Some appreciation and empathy of the competitor’s task
  • Ability to make logical, correct decisions quickly and under pressure
    • Do not engage spectators or competitors while judging.
    • have a basic knowledge of First Aid
    • You must be conversant with all patterns / techniques you are to judge

ITF Umpiring uniform consists of

  • a navy blue blazer jacket,
  • white, long sleeved shirt,
  • navy blue trousers or knee-high skirt
  • navy blue tie (with no other colours or decorations- I.T.F. logo permitted)
  • white socks
  • white gym/Taekwon-do shoes

Alternatively, polo tops may be used where a sponsorship arrangement is in place, or approved by the National Organization.

The Competition area –  Patterns

Patterns Ring size should be 9m by 9m square of competition space.

  • Patterns  judges are positioned across the front of the ring.
  • The official Jury table is positioned behind judges
  • There should be adequate distance between the competition area and spectators for safety and integrity of judging
  • Judges should be positioned a safe distance from competition area

BOUT PROCEDURE

The pyramid system of elimination is generally used for both team and individual at Black Belt Levels

Other formats are at the Tournament Organizers discretion, but must be made clear prior to event registration.

ITF patterns

Individual

  • Competitors will compete 1 to 1 and will perform simultaneously one (1) optional Pattern and one (1) designated Pattern (appropriate to their degree), selected at random by the Jury President.
  • The boxes containing the names of the optional patterns will be taken out of the basket by the Jury President before choosing the designated pattern. The winning competitor will progress to the next round.

Umpiring Patterns Team

Team

  • Designated pattern draw will take place whilst both teams are on the floor.
    From the second round of the draw a coin will be tossed to decide which team goes first. The winning coach of the toss decides which team performs as first.
  • The first team will perform 2 patterns and the second team will do likewise.
  • The winning team will progress to the next round.

Team Patterns additional Guidelines 

         The team may line up in any format they choose and team members may perform movements individually, or together, as they choose, but it must be seen to be teamwork.

For example: one team member may not perform moves of the Pattern on his own without the other team members following in unison

Scoring Method:

Patterns are Judged according to the following criteria:

Technical Content    (5 points)

Power                         (5 points)

Rhythm                      (5 points)

  • Team Patterns are also Judged on Teamwork (5 points)

TECHNICAL CONTENT (5 POINTS)

 Technical Content refers to:

  • Correct pattern diagram, all steps performed
  • Appropriate start and finish positions
  • Appropriate posture and facing
  • Techniques performed at correct height and direction of travel
  • Proper tool used for blocking, striking or kicking
  • Correct Stance dimensions and weight distributions
  • Correct use of sine wave
  • Correct stepping, pivoting and turning
  • Maintaining equilibrium whilst stepping, turning and pivoting
  • Remaining stable whilst kicking, including slow movements
  • Control of body weight and momentum
  • Kihaps performed in appropriate places
    • incorrect ready stance (-1)
    • break in pattern sequence but continue within 3 secs (-2)
    • (-1 for Technical Content and -1 for Rhythm(see below))
    • absence of Kihups in patterns (-1)
    • if a movement is performed incorrectly, either once or throughout pattern (-1)
    • incorrect Name of Pattern called at completion of pattern (-1)
    • 3 wrong movements performed in the pattern (0 points)
    • stop pattern completely without resuming within 3 secs (0)
    • wrong pattern performed (0)
    • missing technique in pattern (0) points

 

RHYTHM (5 POINTS)     

Rhythm refers to:

  • Timing of the pattern movements in accordance with encyclopaedia recommendations
  • Absence of delayed pauses, or irregular sequences
  • Pattern completed from start to finish in one continuous sequence
    • Performing the pattern too fast (-1)
    • Irregular sequences or pauses (-1)
    • break in pattern sequence but continue within 3 secs (-2) (-1 for Rhythm and -1 for Technical Content(see above)

POWER (5 POINTS)

Power refers to:

  • Correct application of sine wave
  • Use of reaction arm
  • Appropriate utilization of larger muscle groups, and transfer of body weight
  • Acceleration of movements
  • The appropriate use of breath for each movement
  • Correct strength and timing of breath
    • lack of power (-1)
    • lack of reaction force (-1)
    • no acceleration of movement (-1)
    • uncontrolled stop power (-1)

All patterns are judged according to the recommendations of the Founder of Taekwon-Do, General Choi Hong Hi, along with updates made by the International Taekwondo Federation.

Central Umpire (Patterns)

Responsibilities

  •            Control the procedure of the bout
  •             Ensure competitors abide by the competition rules
  •             Allocated penalties where appropriate
  •             Communicate with Jury President
  •             Clearly signal all decisions to judges.

Patterns – Umpire Terminology

CHARYOT – ATTENTION

KYONG YE – BOW

JUNBI – READY

SIJAK – BEGIN

BARO – RETURN

JU UI – WARNING

HONG – RED

CHONG – BLUE

DONG CHON – TIE

SUNG – WINNER

PATTERNS JUDGES

Responsibilities:

  • To score the bout according to official scoring criteria
  • To have a thorough knowledge of technique / patterns
  • To record and tally scores precisely
  • To be consistent and non-biased in scoring

During the bout:

  • the Corner Referee must be up to date with all the I.T.F. Tournament Rules
  • sit properly and must observe with attention the competitors’ actions 

Jury President

 Responsibilities

Oversee the procedure of the bout

  •  Ensure competitors abide by the competition rules
  •  Communicate with Tournament Organizing Committee
  •  Monitor performance of judges and referees – provide feedback 
  • Scrutinize score sheets and then announce results to Centre Umpire
  • Consult with the Tournament director in regards any appeals

DISQUALIFICATION

  •  misconduct against officials or ignoring instructions
  • any behaviour deemed to be unsporting, offensive, or not in the spirit of fair competition
  • any competitor suspected of being under influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs

Active Participants in this course will be issued a C-Class ITF Umpire Certificate.

This level is issued by the National Organization.

Importantly, regardless of your certified level, you must possess the skills and confidence to effectively control and officiate ITF competitive matches in all events

 

ITF Umpiring Michael Muleta

written by Master Michael Muleta, 8th Degree

ITF Umpire Committee Member 2002-2014

Awarded ‘Outstanding Umpire, 2007 ITF World Championships

President & Technical Director, United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia

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