Taekwondo, a Korean form of unarmed self-defense. "Tae" means foot, "Kwon" indicates hand, and "Do" implies a system or method. So, freely translated, Taekwondo is a method of striking with the hands and feet.

An important part of this class is the traditional formality of Taekwondo. Bowing is a sign of respect and humility. Respect is for the individual and the rank and humility is expressed in your demeanor and attitude. You will always bow (Kyung-Rea) as you enter the training area, recognizing that it is a special place and that you have a different code of behavior than you do on the outside. Daily problems and anxieties are left outside and you are free to concentrate on Taekwondo. At the beginning and end of each class you and the instructor will bow to each other, and you will bow to fellow students anytime you practice with them.

The Instructor should be addressed as "Sabumnim" or "Kwansngnim." Black Belts should be addressed as Sir or Ma'am, Mr. or Ms. and answers to direct questions should use these titles with or without the last name.

Come to class on time, if you enter after the class has begun you must ask permission of whomever is leading the class in order to join.

You will be issued a Taekwondo uniform (Dobok) from the equipment rooms for the quarter. Keep it clean but do not bleach it. "No jewelry of any kind may be worn" this includes: watches, rings, bracelets, necklaces, etc. No apparel that is not part of the Dobok is allowed: hats, headbands, t-shirts (for men), etc. You are absolutely required to trim your finger and toe nails short.

The class final is also the test for the first rank, Yellow Belt - 8th Kub. If you find the class interesting you may continue by taking the Intermediate and Advanced Classes and move up in belt rank to Black Belt (Chodan) - average time is 3 years. The belt colors are Yellow, Green, Blue, Red and Black with two levels in each step except Black with ten.