Tang Soo Do is a dynamic Korean martial art. It blends traditional Korean and Chinese fighting styles1. Created in the mid-20th century, it mixes karate, taekkyeon, subak, and northern Chinese martial arts for a full self-defense system2. The name “Tang Soo Do” means “The Way of the Chinese Hand.” It shows the mix of Korean and Chinese influences in this martial art2.
In the 1940s, it was started by those who knew Okinawan karate and kung-fu. The first schools, or “kwans,” were set up in Korea after it was free from Japanese rule1. Since then, Tang Soo Do has grown and helped shape other big Korean martial arts like taekwondo and Soo Bahk Do1.
Key Takeaways
- Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art that combines elements of karate, taekkyeon, subak, and northern Chinese martial arts.
- The art was established in the 1940s by practitioners who had studied Okinawan karate and kung-fu.
- Tang Soo Do has influenced the development of other prominent Korean martial arts, such as taekwondo and Soo Bahk Do.
- The name “Tang Soo Do” reflects the fusion of Korean and Chinese influences in this martial discipline.
- Tang Soo Do emphasizes practical self-defense techniques and dynamic, powerful kicking skills.
Introduction to Tang Soo Do
Overview of Tang Soo Do Martial Arts
Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art with a long history. It started in the 7th century during the Three Kingdoms period of Korea3. It was first known as “Tangsu” and was taught to the Hwarang warriors of the Silla kingdom3. Over time, it grew, mixing in styles from China and Okinawa3.
Origins and Historical Background
In 1945, Grandmaster Hwang Kee blended Chinese and Korean martial arts with Okinawan karate. He named this new system “Hwa Soo Do.”4 Later, he changed the name to “Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan” to better suit the Korean people4. The Korean Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Association was officially recognized on June 30, 1960, with Grandmaster Hwang Kee leading it4.
Tang Soo Do was first introduced to U.S. servicemen in 1957. By 1960, it had reached five U.S. military bases, leading to its spread in the U.S4. Today, Tang Soo Do (Soo Bahk Do) is practiced in 45 countries worldwide, showing its global impact4.
Grandmaster Hwang Kee’s work in Tang Soo Do is highly valued. He was named Black Belt Magazine’s Man of the Year in 19894. He also wrote “Soo Bahk Do Dae Kahm” in Korean in 1970 and “Tang Soo Do (Soo Bahk Do)” in English in 1978. These works helped cement his legacy4.
“Tang Soo Do (Soo Bahk Do) is practiced in 45 countries globally, showcasing the extensive reach and international presence of the martial art.”
What is Tang Soo Do Martial Arts
Tang Soo Do is a dynamic Korean martial art. It combines karate, taekkyeon, subak, and northern Chinese martial arts5. The name means “The Way of the China Hand,” honoring the Tang dynasty in China5. It focuses on striking, kicking, blocking, and defending, making it useful for self-defense6.
At its heart, Tang Soo Do aims to unite body, mind, and spirit6. Practitioners learn set routines to improve their form. They also do drills to boost speed, power, balance, and timing6. This approach leads to better physical health, like more flexibility and strength6.
This martial art also works on mental focus and discipline6. Practitioners grow in calmness, balance, confidence, and self-respect. They learn to be brave, humble, and compassionate, helping them move smoothly in all they do6.
| Key Features of Tang Soo Do | Description |
|---|---|
| Origins | Tang Soo Do has a long history from Korea’s Three Kingdoms period, influenced by Chinese martial arts of the Tang dynasty75. |
| Techniques | It focuses on striking, kicking, blocking, and defending, drawing from various martial arts65. |
| Training Approach | Practitioners follow set routines and drills to improve speed, power, balance, and timing6. |
| Holistic Development | Tang Soo Do aims for the unity of body, mind, and spirit, promoting growth in all areas6. |
| Notable Practitioners | Legends like Billy Blanks and Chuck Norris have practiced Tang Soo Do7. |
Tang Soo Do is a rich martial art that combines physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines. It offers a complete system of self-defense and personal growth675.
Key Principles and Techniques
Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art known for its wide range of striking and kicking techniques. It includes hand strikes like punches, palm strikes, and elbow strikes8. The kicking techniques are just as impressive, covering front kicks, side kicks, and more. These are practiced in forms, one-step sparring, and free sparring.
Striking and Kicking Techniques
The art focuses on striking and kicking that go beyond self-defense. It’s about precision, power, and fluidity. Practitioners aim to perform each technique with focus and control. This reflects the art’s core values of integrity, concentration, and perseverance8.
Blocking and Defensive Maneuvers
Tang Soo Do also values defensive techniques and blocking. Students learn various blocks with their hands and body parts. These are used in forms and sparring to deflect attacks. The art teaches evasive movements and footwork for avoiding strikes, showing its focus on self-defense and strategy8.
This training in both offense and defense makes Tang Soo Do unique. It helps practitioners grow in self-protection and personal development89.
“The true essence of martial arts lies not in the mastery of physical techniques, but in the cultivation of mental discipline, focus, and respect for oneself and others.”
Tang Soo Do Training and Practice
The traditional tang soo do curriculum includes forms, one-step sparring, three-step sparring, and free sparring. Tang soo do forms are set patterns that help students improve their skills and understand the art’s principles10. Sparring drills let students use their skills in a safe setting, improving their defense and strategy10.
Tang soo do training happens in special schools called tang soo do dojangs11. These places offer a place for students to learn and practice in a structured way. Training methods include physical training, technical drills, forms, and sparring11. Students also learn meditation, mental training, and the art’s history and philosophy11.
The training in tang soo do aims to improve physical and mental skills, discipline, and respect10. Students learn eight key concepts, like courage and honesty, to improve their well-being10. These principles help students get better in flexibility, strength, coordination, and stress management10.
“Tang Soo Do is depicted as an Eternal Triangle where the Body, Mind, and Spirit are interrelated in training.”11
The tang soo do training focuses on personal growth, mental strength, and respect. It keeps the art’s old techniques and values10. The main goal of tang soo do is to help people grow personally, not just to compete or fight12.
Tang Soo Do Forms and Patterns
Forms, or hyeong, are key in tang soo do martial arts. They help build muscle memory and improve technique. They also deepen the understanding of the art’s core principles13. The tang soo do includes various forms like Palgwae, Pyongahn, and Yudanja series for black belts14. Mastering these forms is essential for advancing in rank and skill.
The Pyongahn forms are very important in tang soo do14. Hwang Kee brought them back from China in the 1930s, linking them to Chinese martial arts14. Yet, their true origins are debated, with some tracing them back to Okinawa14.
The idea of “kibun” affects how people interact in Asian cultures, including the author and Hwang Hyun Chul. It influenced their communication and the search for the Pyongahn forms’ origins14. The author faced challenges in uncovering the truth about these forms within the tang soo do community14.
Grandmaster Hwang Kee shared seven steps to learn hyungs in his book, Tang Soo Do (Soo Bahk Do)13. He introduced the Giecho forms in 1947 to prepare for the Pyong An forms13. The Pyong An forms, based on Okinawan Pinan forms, aim to build peace and confidence through self-defense skills13.
American tang soo do, started in 1966 by Chuck Norris, includes basic to advanced forms like Giecho Hyung Il Bu and Pyong-An Cho Dan15. It focuses on sparring to improve technique, mental readiness, and relaxation, aiming for health and longevity15.
The tang soo do forms and tang soo do patterns are crucial to this Korean martial art. They showcase the art’s history, evolving techniques, and the commitment to self-improvement that defines tang soo do141315.
Tang Soo Do Ranking System
Tang Soo Do uses a traditional colored belt system, similar to Judo’s. Students start with a white belt and move up to yellow, green, blue, red, and finally black16. Each belt level shows a new level of skill and knowledge in Tang Soo Do17.
Belt Colors and Rank Progression
Reaching a black belt in Tang Soo Do takes a lot of hard work. Students must master forms and show technical skill, mental focus, and a deep understanding of the art’s ways16. It usually takes 3 to 5 years to get to black belt16. The time it takes to move up a belt varies, from 2-3 months to 6 months and 48 classes16.
The Tang Soo Do belt system has seven colors, each marking a new achievement17. Moving from white to midnight blue belts shows how fast you’re advancing16. The black belt is the highest honor, like graduating from school17. The colors have deep meanings in Korean philosophy, symbolizing the seasons and learning stages17.
Getting a black belt in Tang Soo Do is a big achievement, with different levels showing different mastery17. The journey from white to black shows one’s hard work, discipline, and love for the martial art18.
“The path to black belt is a long and rigorous one, requiring extensive training, mastery of forms, and demonstration of technical proficiency, mental discipline, and a strong understanding of the art’s principles and philosophy.”
Benefits of Tang Soo Do
Practicing Tang Soo Do, a Korean martial art, brings many physical and mental benefits19. It includes training that builds strength, flexibility, coordination, and heart health19. This training also teaches discipline, focus, and self-control, helping build integrity and self-confidence19.
Physical and Mental Discipline
Practicing Tang Soo Do helps keep weight in check and improves balance and flexibility19. It’s not just about physical moves but also trains the mind and spirit19. People like Don Cook stay fit and active with it, while Amy Schultz finds it fun and challenging19.
Self-Defense Skills
Tang Soo Do aims to teach self-defense skills19. It covers various techniques for striking, kicking, blocking, and dodging19. The art teaches how to be aware of your surroundings, make quick decisions, and defend against different attacks19. Practitioners learn to avoid dangerous situations using the art’s principles19.
“Tang Soo Do is not solely about punching and kicking but emphasizes the development of mind, body, and spirit.”
Tang Soo Do’s benefits go beyond physical health, improving mental and emotional well-being20. It helps fight bullying, reduce cliques, and boost confidence in young people20. Regular practice also helps in other life areas, and reciting the Seven Tenets of Tang Soo Do promotes leadership qualities20.
In summary, Tang Soo Do offers a full approach to personal growth, combining physical, mental, and self-defense skills for people of all ages192021.
Notable Tang Soo Do Organizations
The Tang Soo Do martial art has a long history. It is led by several key organizations around the world. The Moo Duk Kwan (School of Martial Virtue) was founded by Grandmaster Hwang Kee in 194522. It played a big part in making Tang Soo Do what it is today.
Later, the Moo Duk Kwan split. One group created Soo Bahk Do, a version with softer moves. Hwang Kee’s son, Hwang Hyun-chul, now leads the Moo Duk Kwan in teaching Soo Bahk Do worldwide.
Moo Duk Kwan and Soo Bahk Do
After Korea was freed in 1945, the Moo Duk Kwan was one of five main Kwans formed22. By 1953, five more Kwans joined, including Oh Do Kwan and Han Moo Kwan22. In 1959, the Korea Taekwondo Association (KTA) was created. It brought all the Kwans together into one system of Taekwondo22.
Other Major Tang Soo Do Associations
There are many other important tang soo do organizations and tang soo do associations today. The World Tang Soo Do Association and the International Tang Soo Do Federation teach old styles of tang soo do23. The Amateur Athletic Union Taekwondo also accepts tang soo do ranks and lets tang soo do forms be used in competitions22.
The Mi Guk Kwan and Moo Yea Tang Soo Do organizations offer a place for tang soo do fans to meet and grow the art23.
“Tang Soo Do practitioners focus on traditional values such as respect, discipline, self-control, self-improvement, etiquette, and leading a healthy and harmonious life.”23
The Moo Duk Kwan is a key tang soo do organization. But many tang soo do associations and tang soo do governing bodies also help keep and spread this Korean martial art around the world.
Tang Soo Do Competitions and Events
Tang Soo Do practitioners have many chances to show off their skills in various competitions and events. These24 2,000-year-old24 martial arts events let practitioners do pre-set moves called forms (hyeong). They also get to spar in controlled matches.
Big organizations like the Amateur Athletic Union Taekwondo know about Tang Soo Do ranks. They let traditional Korean martial artists join their events24. These events help Tang Soo Do practitioners show how good they are. They also bring people together in a community.
| Event | Description | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Central Florida Tang Soo Do24 | Started in 1999, this studio has a 3,000 sq. ft. place and its belt rankings are accepted at over 500 studios in the US and 36 countries24. | The studio teaches an ancient Korean martial art. It focuses on physical, mental, and spiritual balance24. |
| Tang Soo Do Club at Penryn Campus25 | Started in 2005, this club is gold accredited and has 30 regular members. They meet every week. Members have won national, European, and world titles25. | Master Leonard, the main instructor, is a 4th Dan in Tang Soo Do with almost 30 years of martial arts experience. Elly Jahnz, a 4th-degree black belt, has trained for 16 years. She goes to seminars and competitions all over the world25. |
These tang soo do competitions and tang soo do events let practitioners show their skills. They also help build a community and friendship among the participants2425.
“Tang Soo Do emphasizes physical, mental, and spiritual balance, and these competitions allow us to test our abilities while connecting with like-minded practitioners.”
– Elly Jahnz, 4th Dan Tang Soo Do Practitioner25
Comparison with Other Martial Arts
Tang Soo Do and Taekwondo come from the same roots in Korea. They share many similarities but also have key differences26. Both focus on kicking and value discipline in both body and mind. Yet, Taekwondo is known for its advanced kicking skills, thanks to its military background26. Tang Soo Do, on the other hand, offers a broader range of techniques for striking and defending.
Also, while Taekwondo is now an Olympic sport27, Tang Soo Do keeps its roots in tradition and self-defense26. It blends Chinese and Korean fighting styles, with a big part dedicated to Soo Bahk Do27. This style goes back to the Tang Dynasty27. Chuck Norris, a famous martial artist and actor, practiced Tang Soo Do.
Similarities and Differences with Taekwondo
Tang Soo Do and Taekwondo are both Korean martial arts that focus on kicks26. But Taekwondo leans more on kicking skills, with about 80% of its moves being kicks26. Tang Soo Do takes a more balanced approach.
Tang Soo Do is seen as a traditional art for self-defense, teaching moves to take down attackers safely28. Taekwondo, while still a self-defense art, has shifted more towards competitive sports and Olympic events28.
Though they share a common heritage, Tang Soo Do and Taekwondo have grown differently, each with their own strengths28. Practitioners of each style gain from their unique approaches. Martial arts help people grow in body, mind, and spirit.
Conclusion
Tang soo do is a deep and ancient Korean martial tradition. It combines karate, taekkyeon, subak, and northern Chinese martial arts. This art has roots from the 4th century29 and was developed as Soo Bahk around 2200-2700 years ago29.
Over time, tang soo do has kept its focus on self-defense, discipline, and preserving Korean martial arts values29.
Now, tang soo do is practiced globally by those who respect its principles and techniques. It offers a fulfilling path for those interested in Korean martial arts30.
The tang soo do community is expanding. Its mix of history, philosophy, and fighting skills will keep inspiring and captivating its followers. It remains a key part of Korean martial arts2931.
FAQ
What is Tang Soo Do martial arts?
Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art that combines karate, taekkyeon, subak, and northern Chinese martial arts. It started in 1944 and helped create taekwondo in the mid-1950s.
What is the history and origin of Tang Soo Do?
It goes back to the 7th century in Korea’s Three Kingdoms period, known as “Tangsu.” Hwarang warriors learned it. In 1945, Hwang Kee mixed Chinese and Korean martial arts with Okinawan karate to form Tang Soo Do.
What are the key techniques and principles of Tang Soo Do?
It focuses on kicks, punches, blocks, and defense. Tang Soo Do also values discipline for both body and mind. It teaches self-defense skills.
What is the traditional Tang Soo Do curriculum?
The curriculum includes forms, one-step and three-step sparring, and free sparring. These help practitioners improve their skills and grasp the art’s principles.
How is Tang Soo Do training conducted?
Training happens in dojangs, special schools for martial arts. It covers physical conditioning, drills, forms, and sparring. This helps build strength, focus, discipline, and respect.
What are the benefits of practicing Tang Soo Do?
It offers physical and mental benefits. It boosts strength, flexibility, coordination, and heart health. It also teaches discipline, focus, and self-control, and improves self-defense skills.
What are the notable Tang Soo Do organizations?
The Moo Duk Kwan is a key organization in Tang Soo Do’s growth and spread. Other important groups include the World Tang Soo Do Association and the International Tang Soo Do Federation.
How does Tang Soo Do compare to Taekwondo?
Both share a Korean heritage but differ in focus. Taekwondo focuses more on kicks, while Tang Soo Do uses a variety of striking and defensive techniques.
Source Links
- Tang Soo Do – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tang_Soo_Do
- Tang Soo Do – https://scorpiusmartialarts.com/tang-soo-do/
- A Brief History of Tang Soo Do – National Black Belt Karate Association Foundation – https://nbbkaf.org/a-brief-history-of-tang-soo-do/
- Tang Soo Do World – https://www.tangsoodoworld.com/reference/History_of_the_MDK.htm
- What is Tang Soo Do | North Manchester Family Martial Arts Centres – https://www.northmanchesterfamilymartialarts.co.uk/what-is-tang-soo-do
- Tang Soo Do World – https://www.tangsoodoworld.com/reference/Tang_Soo_Do_Training_Philosophy.htm
- The Story of Tang Soo Do, an Ancient Korean Martial Art – https://www.liveabout.com/history-style-guide-tang-soo-do-2308284
- Aspects of Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do – https://unitedstatestangsoodo.com/aspects-of-moo-duk-kwan-tang-soo-do/
- Central Florida Tang Soo Do – http://www.tang-soo.com/our-art
- Tang Soo Do – http://www.hongsima.com/tang-soo-do.html
- Best Martial Arts School in Columbus oh, J Kim Martial Arts, Continental, Tang Soo Do, Federation, Martial Arts, Columbus, Dublin, Powell, Worthington, Ohio – https://www.jkim.com/00-what’sTangsoodo.html
- Richardson Martial Arts Academy – https://richardsonsmartialarts.com/about-tang-soo-do
- HYUNGS (FORMS) – https://westerntangsoodofederation.org/hyungs-forms/
- QUEST FOR THE TRUTH The Origin of Tang Soo Do’s Forms – 기도관 무술연구원 – https://www.kidokwan.org/korean-martial-art-kwans/mooduk-kwan/tangsoo-do-hyungs/
- American Tang Soo Do – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Tang_Soo_Do
- Belt System – https://unitedstatestangsoodo.com/belt-system/
- World Tang Soo Do Association Belt System – https://blackbelt-academy.com/blog/63015/World-Tang-Soo-Do-Association-Belt-System
- Belt Requirements | Tang Soo Do Karate Association – https://tka.cc/promotion/belt-requirements/
- Korean martial art Tang Soo Do provides mental and physical workout – https://www.theoaklandpress.com/2021/08/16/korean-martial-art-tang-soo-do-provides-mental-and-physical-workout/
- Why You Should Consider Doing Martial Arts – https://improvemykarate.com/martial-arts/
- Benefits – http://www.newrivertangsoodo.com/benefits/
- Tang Soo Do Masters | History of Tang Soo Do – https://tangsoodomasters.com/history/
- Tiny Tigers (3-4) – https://tangsoodosa.com/about/what-is-tang-soo-do/
- Central Florida Tang Soo Do – http://www.tang-soo.com/
- What is Tang Soo Do and why should you join us? – https://www.thesu.org.uk/news/article/6013/What-is-Tang-Soo-Do-and-why-should-you-join-us/
- 10 Types of Martial Arts Compared | Pendergrass Academy of Martial Arts – https://bjjnc.com/2022/06/03/10-types-of-martial-arts-compared/
- Taekwondo vs Tang Soo Do | Fightful News – https://www.fightful.com/mma/taekwondo-vs-tang-soo-do
- Revisiting Tang Soo Do vs MMA – http://mykaratekicks.blogspot.com/2013/11/revisiting-tang-soo-do-vs-mma.html
- Rayners Lane Taekwon-do Academy – http://www.raynerslanetkd.com/ARTICLES_HistoryOfTangsooDo.html
- How Tang Soo Do has changed me. – https://www.jaenamtraining.com/post/how-tang-soo-do-has-changed-me
- The Tang Soo Do Way: A Journey of Growth Within Oneself – https://vinelandmartialarts.com/the-tang-soo-do-way-a-journey-of-growth-within-oneself/
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