When people learn that I am involved in the martial arts a common question when I say that I have a black belt in Taekwondo is, ‘What is the difference between Karate and Taekwondo?”. So, I thought you as a ready my also be interested in having an answer to the same question. There are some distinct differences between the two most common martial arts: karate and tae kwon do. If you are a newcomer to these disciplines, read on to learn the significant differences. One important note: This is my opinion so take it as such!
Modern karate was developed on the Japanese island of Okinawa with some Chinese influences. There are many styles of karate, but they are completely Japanese styles today. The colored belt system was developed to show a practitioners rank to others. Tae Kwon Do is a Korean martial art, with some Japanese influences. The two schools of Tae Kwon Do (see Taekwondo Uniforms) are the International Federation and the World Federation. Many American schools have adopted the Korean-style uniforms for their programs.
Karate vs. Taekwondo
As rule in karate you use your arms for 60% of the time dealing out strikes or blocks whlie legs are busy kicking about 40%.
This count represents the many forms or katas of karate (see Karate Uniforms) which are set routines. They simulate fighting an imaginary adversary with martial arts techniques. The forms of tae kwon do put more emphasis on the legs with a proportion of 60% legs, 40% hands. The tae kwon do kicks tend to be higher aiming at the head level. There are more jumping and flying kicks, the kicking being executed while up in the air. In general Korean forms or patterns are shorter and less complex than those in karate. The older karate forms have found their way into the curriculum of some tae kwon do schools as well.
In North America, they have devoted karate and Tae kwon do competitions, but they’ve begun having open competitions as well, which are open to both disciplines. Tae kwon do has garnered much more attention in recent years, as it is now a recognized Olympic sport. Both forms are currently considered “hard” forms of martial arts.
Some Related Books At Amazon:
MMA Book Reviews
