Tang Soo Do literally means “The Way of The Tang Hand” and this term has been derived from a term for Chinese from the Chinese Tang Dynasty. This form of martial art has its roots in various styles of martial arts including those found in countries like Korea, China, and Okinawa. The art form originated in Korea and was known as Tae Kyon. According to World Tang Soo Do Association this form of martial art is usually considered to be a Chinese martial art, because the first word “Tang” has often been interpreted as representing the Chinese Tang Dynasty. This form of martial art uses the colored belt system that was instituted by Jigoro Kano. This form had been first used in Karate by Funakoshi Gichin but with minor deviations according to organization was a common factor. There has also been the differentiation of characteristics in the styles and the traditional black belt is frequently replaced here with the Midnight Blue Belt. Tang Soo Do has been an extremely popular martial art, which incorporates the kicking arts of taekyon and subak. Even though it is similar to Tae Kwon Do and uses its heritage as a traditional pattern, Tang Soo Do promotes the values of self-control, respect and discipline. This has been for the pursuit of self-improvement and incorporates various other human capabilities in the same.

There are five basic principles Tang Soo Do and these had been carried on along with following the techniques of this form of martial arts. These include being loyal to the country and obedience to parents and elders. The concept of respecting the instructors and seniors are given high priority. The exercise of self control and the ability to never misuse one’s art are mandatory pledges of this form of martial art. The principles of Tang Soo Do imply and incorporate the principles of Um & Yang (Yin & Yang) and the laws of nature. This implies that pushing the corresponding action for yielding or getting the opponents energy is essential and hence this is a method where the opponents force is used against them. Since these forces are continually changing, the students should learn to adapt rather than depend on any fixed force. The aim of handling a potentially violent situation is to be shifted to one of peace instead of creating more violence.

The variations in this form of martial art is extensive and the Tang Soo Do free sparring resembles competitive matches in other traditional striking systems of Asia but is also has elements of American freestyle point karate. There is Tang Soo Do sparring matches held also where different kinds of techniques, like the Open hand techniques and leg sweeps, are typically not allowed. There are various kinds of key concepts in this martial art form and the name Tang Soo Do is the basic study of these overall factors. These key concepts include Yong Gi or courage, Chung Shin Tong Il or concentration, In Heh or endurance, Chung Jik or honesty, Him Cho Chung or the control of power, Wan Gup or speed control and various other related concepts.

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