Martial Arts Mecca

Korean Martial Arts 

Tang Soo Do is a relatively new martial art when compared to an art such as Kung Fu. It was founded in Korea in 1945 by Grandmaster Hwang Kee but its origins go way back, possibly even thousands of years. As usual there is much disagreement as to what the actual origins are. Some claim it is a mixture of Soo Bahk Do, Kung Fu and Okinawan Karate (or perhaps Japanese Shotokan Karate).

Schools, clubs and organizations can be found all over the world. Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan and Tang Soo Do are close enough for most people to call the same thing. I know some would want to take my head off for saying such a thing, for most this description is adequate. It is a traditional martial art where classes are often taught using Korean commands and etiquette. Forms and weapons are also a large part of the art. There are differences from organization to organization and even from school to school. Tae Kwon Do is also very similar in style and also has Korean origins.

Tang Soo Do makes for an excellent family martial arts program. There are numerous schools over North America that promotes family programs. The four main areas of training are; forms, weapons, sparring and breaking. Most schools will allow breaking and sparring as an option especially for younger students. Sparring is generally done with padded protection and in a very controlled environment.