tae kwon do

An umbrella term for Korean martial arts styles united in the 1950s. Some schools trace a heritage through one of the more narrowly defined "kwans" that existed before the unification. Drawing from a mixture of influences, it is best known for its explosive kicks and strikes. Most similar to karate, but tends to be less linear and more motive. A good school will do sparring (rule based, but hardens the body), breaking (accuracy), and self-defense exercises. Unfortunately, in recent times, Tae Kwon Do's loose definition and the willingness of many to use it as mere training for Olympic-style Sparring has resulted in many poorly run schools. As with any martial art, there are advantages and disadvantages; no single style is complete. And remember it the skill lies in the school and the artist, not the style.