How to Learn Basic Taekwondo

Co-authored by Julee Peck Jones

Last Updated: December 15, 2024 Fact Checked

Taekwondo is the traditional Korean art of self-defence, originated from Ancient Korea. It means "Way of the Hand and Foot". It is a skilled application of kicks, punches, strikes, holds and throws.

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Begin in a fighting stance and slide your left foot forward. Change your guard so your right foot leads and bring your right knee up. Your leg should form a square. This is called a chamber. Straighten your leg and snap your foot out, aiming higher than your face. Pull the kick back and set your foot down.^{[1]
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Begin from left fighting stance. Change your guard and bring your right knee up and across your body. Twist on your supporting foot and kick horizontally across the front of your body. Be sure to snap your foot.^{[2]
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From fighting stance, make a fist and thrust it forward into your opponent's solar plexus, chest or other target areas.^{[3]
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Harai-goshi (Shoulder throw): Keep a firm grip on your opponent's lapel as you step across and begin to wind in. Bend your knees and pull on his lapel as you roll him straight over your back.^{[4]
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- There are different styles of Taekwondo. Some are more sport based.
- Other styles have more elements of actual self-defense and "combat" in them.
- You have to do sparring in all styles. It is a controlled fighting situation. It teaches you how to react to stressful situations.

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- “Dohl-Geyh Chah-Gee,” (360° kick): momentum is key for this kick. With your back foot, bring it around until it’s behind your front foot. Then, with your front foot, bring it up. Finally with your back foot, release it and kick!

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Can I learn Taekwondo from the internet?

Community Answer

Yes, there are all kinds of websites, resources, and videos that can help you learn Taekwondo. However, none will be as effective as an in-person trainer who can correct your movements and tailor their training to your needs.

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Do I need to have a flexible body?

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It always helps, but no. You can build up to it as you progress in the classes. You might want to consider daily stretching and possibly a yoga class to improve your flexibility.

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Is taekwondo or karate best?

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It depends on your preference. Taekwondo is known for having the most kicking techniques out of any martial art and it is an Olympic sport.

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Tips

Always remember to warm up before attempting a technique.

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Remember to stretch before attempting anything. You will perform much better if you do.

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Some of these moves require you to be close, equally, or stronger than your opponent, most likely if your opponent is too overwhelming, it will be hard to defeat him/her.

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The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

It's common to get mad while sparring, but it can cause you to make mistakes. Try to stay calm and treat the session as a game. As long as you learn something from the exchange, it's okay to get hit or scored on.
For the front kick, ask someone to raise and hold your leg straight for 2 minutes. This can help improve your balance and overall strength.
It's always a good idea to have an adult around in case you pull a muscle or hurt yourself during practice.

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Warnings

Performing any of these techniques without wearing suitable clothing and warming up could result in injury.

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This article is no substitute for a teacher.

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