What is Taekwondo?
Taekwondo - An introduction to an exciting martial art
Taekwondo is a martial art that has become increasingly popular around the world in recent years. However, there are several different organizations and styles of Taekwondo, including the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF), National Taekwon-Do Norway (NTN, and World Taekwondo (WT). In this post, we will explore the differences between these organizations and their approaches to Taekwondo.
International Taekwondo Federation (ITF)
The ITF is one of the oldest Taekwondo organizations, founded in 1966 by General Choi Hong Hi. The ITF has focused on preserving the original form of Taekwondo and has a more traditional approach to the sport. The ITF has a higher focus on self-defense and also has a more hierarchical organizational structure.
The ITF also has its own scoring system and competitions, which include patterns, sparring and breaking. ITF athletes also wear a different uniform than those common in the WT, with wider trousers and a buttoned jacket.
NTN Taekwondo - National Taekwon-Do Norway
NTN Taekwondo aims to develop both physical and mental strength in its practitioners, and focuses on technical precision, fast movements and powerful kicks and punches. In addition to self-defense, NTN Taekwondo also places great emphasis on developing discipline, respect, self-control and self-discipline in its practitioners. NTN Taekwondo is a popular martial art in Norway, and there are several NTN Taekwondo clubs throughout the country. The style is open to anyone who wants to learn, regardless of age or experience.
World Taekwondo (WT)
WT, formerly known as the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), is another major international Taekwondo organization. Founded in 1973, WT has a more modern approach to the sport, with a greater emphasis on Olympic style and competition.
WT has its own scoring system and competition rules, which only include sparring and poomsae (pattern). WT athletes wear a more fitted and modern uniform than ITF athletes, with a shorter jacket and pants.
The differences between ITF, NTN and WT
Although all of these organizations practice Taekwondo, there are some clear differences in their approaches to the sport. While the ITF and NTN focus on traditional aspects of Taekwondo, with a greater focus on self-defense, the WT has a more modern and sporting approach to the sport, with a focus on Olympic style and competitions.
The WT is also the only Taekwondo organization included in the Olympic program, allowing athletes to compete at the highest level of international sport. However, the ITF and NTN still have a large following and offer opportunities for competitions at a national level.
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