Taekwondo is a martial art comprised of a series of combat styles used for attacking or defending oneself against an attacker. The art has spread fast and is currently being practiced in many places around the world. Taekwondo is believed to have first been practiced in Japan and China although other versions also existed in other states at the same time. When in need of learning professional taekwondo Portland is the best place to visit.

The facilities in which this martial art is taught are referred to as schools. Students of varying skills and ranks are accommodated in the schools. Teachers and coaches have advanced training and experience which they use to train students. A facility may have more than one tutor with each handling different training sessions. Training and conditioning is done using a wide collection of equipment to achieve a high level of physical strength and flexibility.

The discipline uses different combat skills and styles allowing it to be used as both a defensive and a striking art. Practitioners are allowed to kick, punch, and hold their opponents during a tackle. Punches can be delivered using open hands, knees, and elbows among other parts of the body. Variations of the discipline also allow use of restraints, locks, grappling, holds, and vital point strikes.

Since students are equipped with deadly fighting skills, they are prohibited from using the skills unless they are defending friends, family, or themselves from bullies. Careless use of skills is illegal and can be dangerous if used against untrained individuals. Perfectly landed strikes can cause critical injury or death to an opponent. Coaches should take the first class before beginning training to warn and guide students about use of skills acquired.

People have a misunderstanding of what taekwondo is about. Most people take it for a rough sport filled with violence, and that is wrong. There are many other reasons for which people undertake classes apart from acquiring assault and self defense skills. For instance, it is good for attaining and maintaining great physical fitness and a lifestyle that is healthy. Muscles and bones are strengthened by the exercises students take part in during training. Through the exercises, bones are strengthened and muscles are tightened.

One can also enhance their physical appearance by engaging in the discipline. The exercises also help in shedding off excess weight and unwanted mass in the whole body. Students can lose several pounds of weight within a short period of practice. Like other sports, this discipline is also good for relieving stress from the body. This is helpful in avoiding stress related medical conditions such as diabetes, heart diseases, and ulcers among others.

Hobbyists also use this discipline to pass their free time. Enthusiasts watch matches, take classes when free, and for those with skills, they train students. Infact, it is enthusiasts who establish most of the training facilities. They hire managers and coaches to run the place and train students in their absence.

Competitive Taekwondo has an audience in the whole world. Participants take part in Olympics and other international games worldwide. Participation in Olympics may involve display of skills or going into combat against an opponent. This discipline also has ranks that practitioners attain over time as they advance in training and mastery of skills.