Taekwondo is recognized as an Olympic sport that is widely practiced as Martial Arts across the world while Karate is just introduced as an Olympic trial sport, but also retains its wide popularity in the world among the Athletes. The concepts and practices involved in Taekwondo for adults can help you in more aspects than just Martial Arts; they’re also an excellent way to build body strength and stability, develop flexibility, learn self-defense skills and tactics, and much more. However, what’s the difference between Karate and Taekwondo?

Before heading towards the nearest Taekwondo school or Karate dojo, here’s a crash course on Taekwondo vs Karate.

The History of Karate

The roots of Karate date back to ancient Japan, when the prohibition of weapons led to the use of unarmed fighting techniques. Early forms of this art are credited to Shaohao who helped ban all weapons from his kingdom on Okinawa Island out of fear of warring kingdoms taking control. By doing so, those living on the island were forced to utilize hands-on methods for self-defense.

With a history spanning hundreds of years and an influence that can be attributed to both Chinese and Japanese origins, it’s safe to say that Karate has evolved significantly over time, as well as varying styles emerging throughout its existence. Today three main classifications contain subsets: Goju Ryu, Shotokan Karate, and Wado Ryu. However, variations still exist, such as Taekwondo because they are all classified under traditional Martial Art systems.

In its modern form, Karate emphasizes striking and kicking techniques to secure an advantage over an opponent. The goal is to incapacitate your opponent without causing serious injury.

The History of Taekwondo

Taekwondo is based in ancient history, dating back to almost 50 B.C. “Tae” means to kick, “kwon” means to punch or destroy with the hand, and “do” refers to a certain way of performing something  —  so Taekwondo can refer both to one’s movements (high kicks) and combat technique.

When Japan invaded Korea at the beginning of the 1900s, they forbade Korean military practices  —  including Taekwondo. During this time many Koreans traveled abroad where they learned various Martial Arts styles  —  notably Judo, Karate, and Kung-Fu  —  which may then have influenced different parts of Taekwondo that grew out from its original form after liberation from Japanese occupation during World War II in 1945.

Korean martial art focuses on self-defense, but also emphasizes kicks and punches while using body positioning to engage in grappling moves against an opponent. It also incorporates smaller strikes with objects such as sticks or swords.

Taekwondo is more practical than other forms of Martial Arts because it incorporates kicking techniques into its curriculum rather than simply blocking attacks with various parts of one’s body (such as hitting someone with your elbow). The goal of Taekwondo is to quickly defeat an opponent with minimal injury inflicted on yourself or your partner.

Taekwondo VS Karate: Style & Technique

You might have heard about this before, but there are different fighting styles and techniques. Some martial artists primarily use their hands or feet, while others use weapons like swords or knives.

Karate

Karate focuses on hand techniques. Students learn kicks and other leg techniques, but they take a backseat to the hands. Karate has three parts: Kihon (basics), kata (choreographed sets), and Kumite (fighting).

Kata has choreographed sets of moves that students practice developing their technique. These moves are often seen in competitions and used to show skill level. These words mean basics, set of moves (choreographed), and fighting or practicing against someone else. Karate teaches people how to defend themselves when they get in trouble.

Taekwondo

In contrast, Taekwondo focuses more on the feet. The legs are seen as superior weapons because of their greater reach and strength. Many of the same hand techniques are taught but are used as backups or complements to foot techniques.

Just like Karate, Taekwondo also has Kata. However, they are more like learning routines than fighting moves. Unlike Karate, you can also do full contact sparring in Taekwondo for adults. This allows people to get more experience before doing competitions.

Promotion & Ranking

Karate and Taekwondo use a series of color belts to mark progress on one’s journey from white belt beginner to black. Both arts have 10 degrees (rank) of pre-black belt levels but are different in colors: Karate has ten dan ranks of Black Belt while Taekwondo has nine.

Here’s Why You Should Start Learning Martial Arts

If you’re thinking about starting Martial Arts, you’ll notice all sorts of benefits, including your mental and physical well-being  —  but committing to something new can be difficult. Before joining a Taekwondo school, here are the top reasons why you start learning Martial Arts.

Helps Boost Confidence

Aside from boosting physical performance, being physically active can do wonders to your confidence. Whether it’s for you or your child, Taekwondo can help you improve your self-esteem and give you the confidence to excel in other parts of your life.

Provides Full Body Workout

Martial arts is a great activity to start getting back into shape. This is because Martial Arts truly provide a full-body workout. The consistent practice has shown to increase overall mobility, improve your body’s pressure response, increase muscle and burn fat.

Teaches Self-Defense Skills

The movements taught in Martial Arts classes could one day save your life. One clear benefit of Taekwondo or Karate is that it would give you a winning chance against any physical threat that comes your way.

Overall, Martial Arts are great ways to enhance your overall physical and mental agility. Get into the best physical and mental shape of your life by signing up for Taekwondo classes at Lions Taekwondo Academy. It’s easy to start with the FREE Week Trial and after decide about the Membership. Hurry up and book your first class!