You may be surprised to learn that the traditional Korean martial art of Tang Soo Do incorporates aspects from northern Chinese martial arts, karate, taekkyeon, and subak.
When the Korean Nine Kwans merged in the 1950s, Taekwondo was founded on the 1944-founded Tang Soo Do. In order to maintain the aspects of Korean martial arts that were lost after the switch to Taekwondo, many Korean martial arts organizations still practice Tang Soo Do today.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Tang Soo Do is a traditional Korean martial art that incorporates elements from various martial arts styles.
- It originated in 1944 and became the basis for Taekwondo.
- Tang Soo Do is practiced by many Korean martial arts entities to preserve traditional techniques.
- The martial art includes kicking techniques, hand techniques, forms, and self-defense.
- Tang Soo Do promotes physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-improvement.
History of Tang Soo Do
Tang Soo Do has a rich history dating back to the 1940s when the original kwans were established in Korea. During this time, practitioners who had studied Okinawan karate and had exposure to kung-fu founded the first Tang Soo Do schools. These pioneers sought to create a unique Korean martial art that blended various influences.
Following the Korean War, more kwans were formed, including the renowned Chung Do Kwan and Moo Duk Kwan. These kwans played a significant role in the development and spread of Tang Soo Do. In fact, they became synonymous with the Korean martial art and laid the foundations for its future growth.
However, the 1950s witnessed the emergence of a new martial art called Taekwondo. This led to a division among Tang Soo Do practitioners, with some choosing to adopt Taekwondo while others remained dedicated to Tang Soo Do. Despite the split, Tang Soo Do continued to thrive as a distinct martial art with its own techniques and philosophies.
Today, Tang Soo Do is recognized and respected as a traditional Korean martial art. It serves as a testament to the dedication and perseverance of its practitioners, who have preserved its rich heritage and teachings over the years.
| Key Points |
|---|
| Established in the 1940s |
| Original kwans formed in Korea |
| Influenced by Okinawan karate and kung-fu |
| Kwans like Chung Do Kwan and Moo Duk Kwan played a significant role |
| Tang Soo Do practitioners split after the development of Taekwondo |
| Tang Soo Do remains a traditional Korean martial art |
Organizations and Styles of Tang Soo Do
Within the world of Tang Soo Do, there are several organizations and styles that practitioners can choose from. Each organization offers its unique approach to teaching and preserving the traditional Tang Soo Do system. Let’s explore some of these organizations and styles:
World Tang Soo Do Association
The World Tang Soo Do Association is a prominent organization that focuses on teaching the traditional Tang Soo Do system. With a strong emphasis on discipline, respect, and self-improvement, the World Tang Soo Do Association aims to promote the art of Tang Soo Do around the world.
International Tang Soo Do Federation
The International Tang Soo Do Federation is another well-known organization that is dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of Tang Soo Do. It provides comprehensive training programs and certifications for instructors, ensuring the highest standards of instruction and practice.
Chung Do Kwan and Moo Duk Kwan
Chung Do Kwan and Moo Duk Kwan are two popular styles of Tang Soo Do. Chung Do Kwan emphasizes powerful and dynamic techniques, while Moo Duk Kwan focuses on the holistic development of the practitioner, including physical, mental, and spiritual aspects.
American Tang Soo Do
American Tang Soo Do is a variation of Tang Soo Do that has its roots in the United States. It incorporates elements of other martial arts styles, making it a unique blend of Korean and American martial arts traditions.
Mi Guk Kwan and Moo Yea Tang Soo Do
Mi Guk Kwan and Moo Yea Tang Soo Do are other variations of Tang Soo Do that have their own distinctive characteristics. Mi Guk Kwan emphasizes practical self-defense techniques, while Moo Yea Tang Soo Do focuses on the development of strong mental discipline and inner strength.
These are just a few examples of the many organizations and styles within the world of Tang Soo Do. Regardless of the specific organization or style chosen, practitioners of Tang Soo Do can expect to develop physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-defense skills through their training.
| Organization/Style | Focus |
|---|---|
| World Tang Soo Do Association | Teaching the traditional Tang Soo Do system |
| International Tang Soo Do Federation | Preserving and promoting Tang Soo Do |
| Chung Do Kwan | Powerful and dynamic techniques |
| Moo Duk Kwan | Holistic development of the practitioner |
| American Tang Soo Do | Blend of Korean and American martial arts traditions |
| Mi Guk Kwan | Practical self-defense techniques |
| Moo Yea Tang Soo Do | Strong mental discipline and inner strength |
Techniques and Training in Tang Soo Do
Tang Soo Do practitioners undergo comprehensive training and learn a wide array of techniques encompassing different aspects of the martial art. The training curriculum includes various forms, kicking techniques, punches, self-defense, and sparring drills. These elements collectively contribute to the development of a well-rounded martial artist.
Forms: In Tang Soo Do, forms are known as hyung. They are a series of predetermined sequences that combine strikes, kicks, stances, and blocks. Practicing forms helps students to refine their techniques, improve fluidity of movement, and enhance mental focus and discipline. Forms serve as a foundation for building muscle memory and promoting overall coordination.
Kicking Techniques: Kicking techniques are an integral part of Tang Soo Do training. Students learn a variety of kicking techniques, including roundhouse kicks, back kicks, and side kicks. These techniques emphasize proper body mechanics, flexibility, and accuracy, enabling practitioners to generate power and deliver effective strikes.
Punches and Arm Strikes: Tang Soo Do training also involves developing proficiency in punches and arm strikes. Practitioners practice different punching techniques, such as jabs, hooks, and uppercuts, to enhance power, speed, and accuracy. Mastery of arm strikes contributes to the overall effectiveness and versatility of a martial artist’s repertoire.
Self-Defense: Self-defense techniques are an essential component of Tang Soo Do training. Students learn practical and effective methods to defend themselves in real-life situations. These techniques focus on evasive maneuvers, joint locks, grappling, and counterattacks. Mastery of self-defense techniques cultivates confidence and provides practitioners with the skills to protect themselves and others.
Sparring: Sparring drills play a crucial role in applying Tang Soo Do techniques in a dynamic and controlled environment. Practitioners engage in supervised sparring sessions, where they practice offensive and defensive techniques against a live opponent. Sparring fosters adaptability, timing, strategy, and the ability to make split-second decisions.
The Importance of Technique and Discipline
“Technique is not just mechanical – it is the inner harmonious coordination of mind, body, and spirit. It is an expression of our discipline and dedication.” – Grandmaster Shin
Developing proficiency in Tang Soo Do requires consistent practice, discipline, and dedication. The focus on technique and precision encourages practitioners to cultivate mental focus and concentration, promoting self-improvement and personal growth. Tang Soo Do’s techniques and training provide practitioners with a comprehensive skill set, enabling them to navigate both physical and mental challenges effectively.
Conclusion
Tang Soo Do is a traditional Korean martial art that has a rich history and is practiced by various organizations and styles. Combining elements of karate, taekkyeon, and Chinese martial arts, Tang Soo Do offers a comprehensive training program that encompasses forms, kicking techniques, punches, self-defense, and sparring.
As a martial art, Tang Soo Do promotes physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-improvement. Through the practice of Tang Soo Do, students develop strength, flexibility, and agility while honing their focus, perseverance, and self-confidence.
Moreover, Tang Soo Do is deeply rooted in traditional Korean martial arts and is celebrated for its cultural significance. It has become an integral part of the martial arts landscape worldwide, attracting practitioners who are seeking to embrace the rich heritage and techniques of this time-honored practice.
FAQ
What is Tang Soo Do?
Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art that combines elements of karate, taekkyeon, subak, and northern Chinese martial arts.
Is Tang Soo Do same as Taekwondo?
Tang Soo Do is not the same as Taekwondo. While both are Korean martial arts, Tang Soo Do is based on karate and incorporates principles from taekkyeon, subak, and northern Chinese martial arts. The main difference lies in the focus, with Tang Soo Do emphasizing soft side techniques compared to Taekwondo’s emphasis on hard side techniques.
What is Tang Soo Do meant for?
Tang Soo Do is meant for various purposes, primarily focusing on unarmed techniques and self-defense. The martial art traces its lineage back over 2000 years, reflecting a shared cultural background between China and Korea. The Tang Soo Do Mi Guk Kwan system, in particular, is concerned with scientific and martial theory, form, and aesthetics, influenced by Northern and Southern Chinese arts, as well as Okinawan Karate.
Is Tang Soo Do like karate?
Tang Soo Do is an effective striking martial art that enhances self-defense skills. Practitioners often emphasize its ability to improve overall striking game, making it a valuable martial art for those interested in honing their self-defense abilities.
Is Tang Soo Do effective?
Tang Soo Do shares some similarities with karate, as it is an effective striking martial art. However, it has its unique characteristics and influences from various martial arts styles, making it distinct in its own right.
What techniques are taught in Tang Soo Do?
Tang Soo Do incorporates various techniques such as kicking techniques, hand techniques, forms, and self-defense techniques.
When did Tang Soo Do originate?
Tang Soo Do originated in 1944 as a representation of the traditional Korean fusion of martial arts styles.
Are there different organizations and styles within Tang Soo Do?
Yes, there are several organizations and styles within the world of Tang Soo Do. Prominent organizations include the World Tang Soo Do Association and the International Tang Soo Do Federation. Styles such as Chung Do Kwan, Moo Duk Kwan, American Tang Soo Do, Mi Guk Kwan, and Moo Yea Tang Soo Do have their own unique characteristics.