Put simply, Taekwon-Do, or the ‘Art of Hand and Foot’ is a Korean martial art which utilises scientifically devised hand and foot techniques to provide a unique system of unarmed self defence. Taekwon-Do was originally developed using a combination of techniques from Japanese Karate and the ancient Korean arts of Taek Kyon and Soo Bahk Do. The founder of Taekwon-Do, General Choi Hong Hi, refined and developed these movements and through extensive scientific research and development, Taekwon-Do has evolved into one of the most effective martial arts in the world.
The worldwide governing body for the art, the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) was established in 1966. The art was introduced to Ireland in 1968 by Grandmaster Rhee Ki Ha and in 1972; the Republic of Ireland Taekwon-Do Association (RITA) was set up as the National Governing Body for ITF in this country.
Today, Taekwon-Do has become one of the most popular martial arts in the world because anyone, regardless of age, sex, and size, can benefit from it’s training, and the RITA instructors are proud to continue to teach authentic Taekwon-Do as taught by the founder.
As outlined below, Taekwon-Do offers a wide array of physical and mental benefits for both young and old.