QUICK NOTES … TaeKwon-Do is a Korean martial art that is known for its dynamic kicks and strikes. There are several styles of TaeKwon-Do practiced in Omaha, Nebraska, each with their unique characteristics and techniques. Here are some of the most popular styles taught in the area:
- Traditional Taekwondo: Also known as “International Taekwondo Federation (ITF) Taekwondo” is a traditional style that was developed in the 1950s. It places a greater emphasis on self-defense and breaking techniques, with less focus on competition sparring.
- Organizations – After the death of TaeKwon-Do founder Gen. Choi, the ITF split in to a number of different organizations. All use the same (or similar patterns) but the technique used in each differs based on the use of ‘hip rotation/kinetic linking’ or ‘sine wave’.
- Taekwondo: Also known as “Kukkiwon-style” Taekwondo, this is the most widely practiced style of Taekwondo worldwide. It emphasizes fluid, powerful movements, with a focus on kicks and striking techniques. Although the Kukkiwon and the WT (formerly WTF) have split this style of Taekwondo is intertwined and is associated with the Olympic Games.
- WT Taekwondo: World Taekwondo (WT) is the international governing body for Taekwondo competition. The style emphasizes speed and agility, with a focus on scoring points through precise, controlled kicks to specific targets on the body.
- Olympic-style Taekwondo: This is the style of Taekwondo that is practiced in the Olympic Games. It is based on the WT style, with a focus on fast, high-scoring kicks to the head and body.
- ATA Taekwondo: American Taekwondo Association (ATA) Taekwondo is a modern style that emphasizes sparring, board breaking, and self-defense techniques. It also incorporates elements of other martial arts, such as Karate and Kung Fu.
These are just a few of the many styles of Taekwondo that exist, but they tend to be the most frequently practiced types in Omaha. Each style has its unique characteristics and techniques, and practitioners may choose to specialize in one particular style or incorporate elements from multiple styles into their training.
Omaha Blue Waves Martial Arts is affiliated with the United States Kido Federation, the International TaeKwon-Do Federation, and the International Jun Tong TaeKwon-Do Federation. Want to learn more? Contact Omaha Blue Waves Martial Arts at (402) 215-6003.
