FUNDAMENTALS OF

MARTIAL ARTS: FOCUS

ON TAEKWONDO

Prepared by Kimberly Clear

N. Dela Peña, RCrim
Lesson I: Fundamentals of Martial Arts in Criminology

Martial arts play a vital role in criminology and law enforcement because they

provide both physical and psychological benefits to future law enforcers.

• Physical fitness and endurance – Martial arts training improves

strength, flexibility, stamina, and overall health, which are essential in handling

the physical demands of police or security work.

• Self-defense for law enforcers – Officers may encounter hostile

individuals; martial arts equip them with practical skills to defend themselves

and protect civilians without always relying on weapons.

• Mental discipline and focus – Through repetition and structured

training, martial arts sharpen attention, decision-making, and alertness in

high-stress situations.

• Stress management and emotional control – Breathing, meditation,

and controlled movement help law enforcers manage fear, anger, and stress

during conflicts.

• Ethical decision-making in conflict situations – Martial arts

emphasize responsibility and self-control, teaching practitioners when to act and

when to de-escalate.

Lesson II: What is Martial Arts

• Definition – Martial arts are systems of combat practices that combine

physical techniques, philosophy, and discipline. They were originally developed

for self-defense, military training, and spiritual growth.

• Philosophy and values – Martial arts promote respect, humility,

perseverance, and self-control. The goal is not just fighting but

self-improvement.

• Types of Martial Arts

• Eastern examples: Taekwondo (Korea), Karate (Japan), Kung Fu

(China), Muay Thai (Thailand).

• Western examples: Boxing, Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Fencing.

• Relevance to criminology – Martial arts enhance officer safety, build

confidence, and provide non-lethal methods of handling suspects, aligning with

modern policing ethics.

Lesson III: What is Taekwondo

• Definition – Taekwondo is a Korean martial art meaning “the way of

the foot and fist”. It emphasizes striking techniques using both hands and feet.

* Tae- means to kick

* Won - means to punch

* Do - art or way of life

• Characteristics – Known for fast, powerful kicks, jumping and

spinning attacks, and agility-based movements.

• As a sport, martial art, and discipline –

 • Sport: Practiced in tournaments and the Olympics.

• Martial art: A system of self-defense and combat.

• Discipline: A way of life that teaches respect, humility, and perseverance.

Lesson IV: Brief History of Taekwondo

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art known for its dynamic kicking

techniques, speed, and emphasis on discipline and respect. Its origins can be

traced back over 2,000 years to ancient Korean martial practices such as

Taekkyon and Hwarangdo, which were developed for self-defense, military

training, and physical fitness.

During Korea’s history, these native fighting systems were influenced by

Chinese martial arts and Japanese karate (especially during the Japanese

occupation of Korea from 1910–1945). After World War II and Korea’s liberation,

martial artists began unifying different schools (kwans) of martial arts under a

single system.

In 1955, General Choi Hong Hi officially named this martial art

Taekwondo.

Taekwondo spread internationally during the late 20th century. In 1973, the
World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), now called World Taekwondo (WT), was

established, and the first World Taekwondo Championships were held.

It gained global recognition and became an official Olympic sport in 2000

at the Sydney Olympic Games.

Today, Taekwondo is practiced worldwide not only as a sport but also as a

way of developing self-discipline, respect, and a balanced lifestyle.

Lesson V: World Taekwondo (WT)

• International governing body – WT oversees Taekwondo

competitions and sets global standards.

• Mission – To promote Taekwondo worldwide as both a sport and a

discipline.

• Roles – Establishes rules, ranks, and organizes competitions such as the

Olympics, World Taekwondo Championships, and Grand Prix.

Lesson VI: Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA)

• National governing body – Recognized by the Philippine Olympic

Committee and affiliated with WT.

• Functions – Handles belt promotion, athlete development, and

tournament organization.
 • Contribution to law enforcement – Many police and military academies

integrate Taekwondo training for cadets, enhancing self-defense and discipline.

Lesson VII: The Five Tenets of Taekwondo

Every student is expected to live by these guiding principles:

1. Self-Confidence

• What it means: Believing in yourself and your abilities.

• In Taekwondo: You train to overcome challenges, which builds trust in

your skills — both in martial arts and in real-life situations.

• Example: Facing an opponent without fear because you’ve prepared and

practiced.

2. Modesty

• What it means: Being humble and respectful, even if you ’ re skilled or

successful.

• In Taekwondo: You don’t brag or look down on others. You show respect

to instructors, fellow students, and opponents.

• Example: Winning a match but still bowing and thanking your opponent.

3. Indomitable Spirit

• What it means: A strong will that never gives up, even in tough
situations.

• In Taekwondo: You stay determined no matter how hard the training or

fight becomes.

• Example: Getting knocked down during sparring but standing up to

continue.

4. Perseverance

• What it means: Continuing to work hard, even when progress is slow or

difficult.

• In Taekwondo: Repeating drills, learning forms (poomsae), and training

consistently to improve.

• Example: Practicing a difficult kick until you perfect it.

5. Etiquette

• What it means: Proper behavior and good manners, especially in training

and competition.

• In Taekwondo: Bowing, addressing seniors with respect, following rules,

and maintaining discipline.

• Example: Always bowing before entering the mat or starting a match.

• “These tenets shape not only the martial artist’s skills but also their

character and mindset.”

Lesson VIII: The Taekwondo Basics

• Fundamental stances

1. Attention stance

2. Ready Stance

3. Forward Stance

4. Walking stance

5. Back Stance or L Stance

6. Horseback Riding stance.

• Basic blocks

1. Low block

2. High block

3. Double knife-hand block

4. Double arm middle block

5. Knife hand block

6. knife hand block with reverse punch.

• Punching techniques

1. Middle punch

2. High punch.
 • Kicking techniques

1. Stretch kick or Axe kick

2. Out-in kick

3. In-out kick

4. Front kick

5. Side kick

6. 45 degree kick.

Lesson IX: Poomsae (Forms) and Kyorugi (Sparring)

“ Taekwondo practice is divided into two major components:

Poomsae and Kyorugi.”

• Poomsae (Form): Performed solo or in teams, focuses on technique and

precision.

- Scoring (in competition): Based on accuracy, rhythm, power, and

expression.

• Kyorugi (Sparring): Performed with an opponent, focuses on real-time

combat skills.

- Scoring (in competition): Electronic scoring for hits to the torso/head;

judged by technique and control.

Lesson X. Teaching of Self-confidence, Respect and Discipline

Definition:

• Self-confidence is believing in one’s ability to perform and succeed.

• Respect is showing courtesy and consideration to instructors, peers, and

opponents.

• Discipline is the consistent practice of self-control and following rules in

training and daily life.

Practical Application Example:

• Self-confidence: A student performs a poomsae (forms) in front of the

class without fear.

• Respect: Students bow to the instructor and training partners before and

after practice.

• Discipline: A student consistently attends training, arrives on time, and

avoids unnecessary distractions.

Lesson XI. Basic Self-defense 1 to 5

Definition:

Self-defense techniques are methods used to protect oneself from harm using

practical Taekwondo skills.

Basic self-defense video link: https://youtu.be/ueGGNW1D9oA?si=agBBR2GWlQ02qn-v

Lesson XII. The Belt Ranking and its Meaning (White Belt to 1st Dan Black

Belt)

Definition:

Belt ranking in Taekwondo represents the progress of a student ’ s

knowledge, skill, and character development. Each color symbolizes a stage of

growth and responsibility.

Rank Order and Meaning:

1. White Belt: Innocence – the beginning stage, symbolizing a student

with no prior knowledge.

• Application: Learning proper greetings, stances, and the importance of

respect.

2. Yellow Belt: Foundation/Earth – the stage where the basics of

Taekwondo are planted like seeds in the soil.

• Application: Student develops basic blocks, strikes, and kicks.

3. Blue Belt: Sky/Heaven – represents reaching higher knowledge and

growth as a student progresses.

• Application: Student refines techniques and practices more advanced

poomsae.

4. Red Belt: Danger – signifies caution; the student has powerful

techniques but must practice control.

• Application: Learning to use advanced kicks responsibly and guiding

lower belts.

5. Brown Belt: Maturity and Stability – signifies a student who has

matured in skill and discipline, preparing for black belt level.

• Application: Student shows strong sparring ability, leadership, and

control.

6. Black Belt (1st Dan): Maturity and Mastery – opposite of white,

symbolizing full knowledge of basics, discipline, and responsibility.

• Application: Student teaches juniors, demonstrates advanced skills, and

upholds the philosophy of Taekwondo.

Lesson XIII. The Rules of Taekwondo during Competition

Definition:

Competition rules ensure fairness, safety, and sportsmanship in Taekwondo

matches.

Key Rules:

1. Competitors must bow before and after matches.

2. Only allowed techniques (kicks and punches) to the legal scoring areas
(torso protector and head).

3. No striking below the belt, pushing, or holding and grabbing.

4. Matches are won by points, knockouts, or referee decision.

5. Competitors must wear complete protective gear.

Lesson XIV. The Scoring System of Body Contact Sparring

Definition:

The scoring system in Taekwondo measures valid strikes based on accuracy,

power, and target area.

Scoring Points:

• 1 Point: Valid punch to torso.

• 2 Points: Valid basic kick to torso.

• 3 Points: Valid head kick.

• 4 Points: Turning/spinning kick to torso.

• 5 Points: Spinning kick to head.

Practical Application Example:

• A student uses a spinning hook kick (Dwi Huryeo Chagi) to the head →

scores 5 points.
Lesson XV. Enhancement of Body Contact Sparring (Kyorugi)

Definition:

Enhancement of sparring (Kyorugi) means improving fighting skills through

strategy, conditioning, and advanced techniques.

Ways to Enhance:

1. Footwork Drills: Improve speed and mobility.

• Example: Practicing side steps and skipping to avoid attacks.

2. Combination Kicks: Using multiple kicks in sequence.

• Example: Front kick followed by roundhouse kick.

3. Timing and Distance Control: Learning when to attack and defend.

• Example: Waiting for an opponent’s attack, then counter-kicking.

4. Stamina Training: Building endurance for longer matches.

• Example: Doing continuous kicking drills for 1–2 minutes.

Definition of Terms

1. Martial Arts – Systems of combat practices combining physical

techniques, philosophy, and discipline.

2. Criminology – The scientific study of crime, criminals, and law

enforcement systems.

3. Self-defense – The act of protecting oneself from physical harm using

defensive skills.

4. Law Enforcement – Agencies and officers responsible for maintaining

public safety and enforcing laws.

5. Physical Fitness – A person ’ s ability to perform daily tasks with

strength, endurance, and flexibility.

6. Endurance – The body’s ability to sustain prolonged physical activity.

7. Mental Discipline – Control of the mind to stay focused, calm, and

decisive under stress.

8. Stress Management – Techniques used to control physical and

emotional tension.

9. Emotional Control – The ability to stay calm in stressful or dangerous

situations.

10. Ethical Decision-making – Choosing actions that are morally right and

just.

11. Situational Awareness – Being conscious of one ’ s surroundings to

anticipate threats.

12. De-escalation – Techniques used to calm conflicts without resorting to

violence.

13. Non-lethal Force – Defensive techniques used to control suspects

without causing death.

14. Use of Force Continuum – Guidelines for officers on the appropriate

level of force.

15. Confidence – Belief in one’s ability to succeed.

16. Respect – Courtesy shown to instructors, peers, and opponents.

17. Discipline – Consistent practice of self-control and obedience to rules.

18. Modesty – Humility in behavior and attitude.

19. Perseverance – Continuous effort despite challenges.

20. Indomitable Spirit – A strong will that refuses to give up.

21. Etiquette – Proper manners and respectful conduct.

22. Honor – Upholding integrity and moral values.

23. Courtesy – Politeness in word and action.

24. Self-control – Mastery over one’s impulses and emotions.

25. Humility – Acknowledging one’s limitations despite skills or success.

26. Taekwondo – A Korean martial art meaning “the way of the foot and

fist.”

27. Tae – To kick with the foot.

28. Kwon (Won) – To punch or strike with the fist.

 29. Do – The way, path, or art of life.

30. Poomsae – Prearranged forms or patterns of movements.

31. Kyorugi – Sparring between two practitioners.

32. Stance – The foundational position of the body in Taekwondo.

33. Attention Stance – Standing upright with feet together, arms at sides.

34. Ready Stance – Standing alert with feet shoulder-width apart.

35. Forward Stance – A deep stance with one leg forward.

36. Walking Stance – Natural stance used in basic drills.

37. Back Stance (L Stance) – Defensive stance with weight on the back

leg.

38. Horseback Riding Stance – Wide stance for stability.

39. Block – Defensive movement to stop an attack.

40. Low Block (Arae Makgi) – Block to defend against low strikes.

41. High Block (Eolgul Makgi) – Block to defend against high strikes.

42. Knife-hand Block – Block performed with the edge of the hand.

43. Punch (Jireugi) – A straight striking motion with the fist.

44. Kick (Chagi) – Striking movement with the foot or leg.

45. Front Kick (Ap Chagi) – A straight kick directed forward.

46. Side Kick (Yop Chagi) – A powerful sideways kick.

47. Roundhouse Kick (Dollyo Chagi) – A circular kick targeting the side.

48. Axe Kick (Naeryo Chagi) – A downward vertical kick.

49. Inward Kick (An Chagi) – A kick moving inward.

 50. Outward Kick (Bakkat Chagi) – A kick moving outward.

51. 45-degree Kick – A diagonal kick upward.

52. Spinning Kick – A kick executed with a full turn.

53. Hook Kick (Huryeo Chagi) – A whipping kick with the heel.

54. Back Kick (Dwi Chagi) – A strong rearward kick.

55. Double Kick – Two kicks performed in succession.

56. Combination Kick – Linking two or more kicks in sequence.

57. Jumping Kick – A kick performed while airborne.

58. Counter Kick – A kick performed in response to an attack.

59. Push Kick (Teep/Ap Chagi) – A front kick used to push an opponent

away.

60. Turning Kick (Dwi Dollyo Chagi) – A spinning back kick variation.

61. Belt System – Color-coded ranks representing progress.

62. White Belt – Beginning stage of training, symbolizing innocence.

63. Yellow Belt – Symbolizes earth and the foundation of training.

64. Blue Belt – Represents growth toward the sky.

65. Red Belt – Signifies caution and danger, requiring control.

66. Brown Belt – Symbolizes maturity and readiness for mastery.

67. Black Belt (Dan) – Represents proficiency and mastery.

68. Dan – A level or degree of black belt.

69. Promotion Test – An exam required to advance to the next belt.

70. Kukkiwon – World Taekwondo Headquarters in Korea, authority for

black belt certification.

71. Competition – Formal sparring event with set rules.

72. Referee – The official who enforces rules during matches.

73. Round – A timed portion of a match.

74. Knockout (KO) – Winning by rendering the opponent unable to

continue.

75. Protective Gear – Equipment worn for safety during sparring.

76. Hogu – Chest protector used in sparring.

77. Headgear – Protective helmet for safety.

78. Mouthguard – Device to protect the teeth and mouth.

79. Forearm Guard – Padding to protect the arms.

80. Shin Guard – Protective padding for the legs.

81. Valid Point – A properly executed technique that scores.

82. Electronic Scoring – Sensors in protective gear that register impact.

83. 1 Point – Scored with a valid punch to the torso.

84. 2 Points – Scored with a valid kick to the torso.

85. 3– 5 Points – Scored with head kicks or spinning kicks depending on

difficulty.

86. Drills – Repeated practice exercises for improvement.

87. Footwork – Movement techniques for speed and positioning.

88. Shadow Sparring – Practicing sparring movements without an

opponent.
 89. Pad Training – Using kick pads for accuracy and power.

90. Conditioning – Physical training to build stamina and strength.

91. Warm-up – Preparatory exercises before training.

92. Cool-down – Relaxation exercises after training.

93. Stretching – Exercises to improve flexibility.

94. Balance – The ability to maintain stability during movements.

95. Timing – Executing techniques at the right moment.

96. Distance Control – Managing the space between oneself and an

opponent.

97. Counterattack – Responding immediately after blocking or evading.

98. Strategy – Planned actions to outmaneuver an opponent.

99. Reaction Time – Speed of response to an opponent’s move.

100. Leadership – Guiding others in training through example and

teaching.