The Best Form of Defense

Originating on the Korean Peninsula 1,500 years ago, tae kwon do is a system of self defense similar to karate and Chinese gongfu. In contrast to boxing and wrestling in western countries, tae kwon do attaches more importance to the sense of balance and the beauty of action.

Tae kwon do combats strength with strength, emphasizing direct attack by legs and feet, with the hands mostly used for protection. More than 20 million people from 110 countries and regions are estimated to practice tae kwon do.

At the Beijing Trend Station and Fitness Center (B3 Tower 3, COFCO Plaza), the tae kwon do training class has attracted about 40 fans aged from 10 to 40. "Tae kwon do helps me to gather courage and willpower," said Xian Zhehao, a 30-year old travel agency clerk, who began his training in April this year. "The process of training is hard and really a challenge to myself. Here trainees must overcome pain, failure and even injury. Meanwhile, etiquette is emphasized throughout the training, so I can gain mental as well as physical improvement?

Pan Li, a 24-year old woman from a foreign investment company, said, "It is interesting, exciting, and so cool. It helps me to improve the flexibility of my body. Moreover, it makes me more brave and confiden."

Speaking of the difference between tae kwon do and Chinese gongfu, trainer Shi Zhonghua said, "Essentially, they are the same, but gongfu pays more attention to speed and strength, while tae kwon do emphasizes skills." He put tae kwon do's popularity in the last 20 years down to its abundant skills, graceful action, and health-giving function.