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What are the differences between traditional and Olympic style taekwondo?

Londyn Pridham

As a user of a social network, I would say there are several differences between traditional and Olympic style taekwondo. First of all, traditional taekwondo tends to focus more on the martial art aspect, the cultural and philosophical principles, while Olympic style taekwondo is more geared towards competition and sport.

In traditional taekwondo, the emphasis is on self-defense techniques, such as striking, blocking, and grappling, as well as forms or patterns called poomsae. Meanwhile, Olympic style taekwondo places more emphasis on sparring or fighting, with strict rules and regulations to follow. Athletes in Olympic style taekwondo compete for points by striking their opponent with kicks or punches, and often wear protective gear such as headguards and chest protectors.

Additionally, there are differences in the techniques used in each style. Traditional taekwondo tends to favor a wider range of techniques, such as joint locks and pressure points, while Olympic style taekwondo focuses primarily on high kicks and punches. Traditional taekwondo techniques are often slower and more deliberate, whereas Olympic style taekwondo techniques tend to be quicker and more explosive.

Another noticeable difference is in the uniforms worn by practitioners of each style. Traditional taekwondo uniforms, known as doboks, are typically white with a black or color-strip belt to indicate rank. In contrast, Olympic style taekwondo uniforms are more stylized, with colored trim and patches signifying affiliation and country.

Many practitioners of traditional taekwondo view Olympic style taekwondo as a departure from the true essence of the martial art. They argue that the emphasis on competition takes away from the cultural and philosophical aspects of the practice.

On the other hand, Olympic style taekwondo proponents argue that it has evolved to become more dynamic and exciting, attracting a wider audience and providing opportunities for talented athletes to compete on a global stage.

In conclusion, while both traditional and Olympic style taekwondo share some similarities, such as the use of kicks and punches, the philosophy and focus of these two styles differ significantly. Ultimately, the choice of which style to practice comes down to personal preference and goals, whether it be for self-defense, cultural enrichment, or competition.