About The Art

The American Martial Arts Center offers instruction in TaeKwon-Do, Jujitsu/Aikido and Self-Defense  Since the core curriculum at the school is TaeKwon-Do, we address the history of TaeKwon-Do here.  Please check our Programs web page to view information on our other offerings.

On April 11th, 1955 the name TaeKwon-Do was chosen for a martial art that General Choi, Hong Hi had developed using elements from Tae Kyon (an ancient Korean kicking martial art) and Shotokan karate a Japanese martial art that General Choi learned while studying in Japan during the Japanese occupation of Korea. 

ITF TaeKwon-Do more than all other martial arts is soundly based in science, particularly Newtonian physics.  Through the use of sine wave the student utilizes the principles of Newton’s Law to increase the efficient transfer of their body’s momentum and power into the attacking adversary. 

In his encyclopedia of TaeKwon-Do General Choi describes TaeKwon-Do as follows:

“TaeKwon-Do consists of training of the mind and body in techniques of unarmed combat for self-defense as well as health.  It involves the skilled application of punches, kicks, blocks and dodges with the bare hands and feet for the rapid incapacitation of an opponent or opponents.”

The philosophical values and the goals of Taekwon-Do are firmly rooted in the traditional moral culture of the Orient (Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control & Indomitable Spirit) and are further represented in our Student Oath:

• I shall observe the Tenets of TaeKwon-Do
• I shall respect my instructors and seniors
• I shall never misuse TaeKwon-Do
• I shall be a champion for Freedom and Justice
• I shall strive to build a more peaceful world