COMMONWEALTH
MARTIAL ARTS
ABOUT TANG SOO DO
What is Tang Soo Do?
Tang Soo Do literally translates to “Way of the Chinese Hand.” It is an ancient form of martial arts that developed on the Korean peninsula around 2000 years ago, going through its biggest development during the “T’ang” dynasty (617-907 AD). The Koreans often utilized this art to fight armored Japanese soldiers on horseback. As such, it employs powerful punches and high kicks.
After WWII, several major schools of martial arts were founded in Korea. These included: Kong Soo Do, Kwon Bop, Hwa Soo Do, Tae Soo Do, and Tang Soo do. The events of the Korean was (1950-1955) spurned the fire of nationalism in Korea. The government, influenced heavily by aspects of the military, began a movement to unify all dojangs (school of martial arts) into one association. This was called the Tae Soo Do Association, founded in 1961.
In 1965 a reform was led of the Tae Soo Do Associaton and it became the Tae Kwon Do Association. The main reason that the name “Tang Soo Do” was not adopted was because “Tang” referred to the T’ang dynasty in China. This would allude to Chinese influence which conflicted with Korean nationalism.
Why should I learn Tang Soo Do?
Because Tang Soo Do is not merely a sport, but a way of life, it impacts all facets of a human, namely: Body, Mind, and Spirit.
Body: The rigorous physical training is a great way to get exercise and stay fit. You will improve your muscle tone, balance, coordination, breathing, body posture, not to mention the self defense skills to handle nearly any situation you may find yourself in.
Mind: While it may seem like a collection of fancy moves, Tang Soo Do involves a much deeper theory and philosophy. Students learn not only Korean terminology and history, but details of body mechanics, vital points, how body systems interact and react to damage. Focus and concentration also improve as a student is required to know the background behind all techniques they learn.
Spirit: The ability to kick and punch is not the sole end of martial arts. Rather, it is the means by which students gain confidence; not only the confidence to defend themselves and his/her loved ones, but the confidence to master any situation that life throws them. Tang Soo Do teaches a student that he/she can truly do anything that they set their minds to. A student of Tang Soo Do holds his/her head up high in any scenario and conquers any challenge that he/she encounters.
Tang Soo Do is a fantastic art that is beneficial for men and women of all ages. With hard work and dedication, you too can benefit from Tang Soo Do.
About the World Tang Soo Do Association
(an excerpt from the Association website)
In 1968 Master Jae Chul Shin came to the United States of America as the U. S. representative for the Korean Tang Soo Do Association. He formed the U. S. Tang Soo Do Federation in Burlington, New Jersey in 1968. This traditional Korean Martial Art was quickly accepted and soon grew in popularity throughout the World. The organization reformed to fit new demands internationally, and on November 13 and 14th, 1982, a charter convention of the World Tang Soo Do Association was held in Philadelphia, PA., USA. With the advent of the World Tang Soo Do Association, Tang Soo Do began a new era of development as a traditional martial art.
As of 1996, the new organization has grown at an outstanding rate to reach over 100,000 members in 36 countries and thousands of students are training in the following countries; Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Chile, Columbia, Costa Rica, Czechoslovakia, England, Germany, Greece, Guam, Holland, India, Italy, Korea, Mozambique, Mexico, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Puerto Rico, Rumania, Russia, Scotland, Seychelles, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Uruguay and the U.S.A. For the purpose of guidance and regional management, there are 21 regions.
