Welcome to the D.U. Taekwondo page! We are a Martial Arts club that caters to anyone interested in learning and practicing Taekwondo. We are affiliated with East Coast TKD & ITF. Our classes are offered both to beginners and those with previous Martial Arts/TKD experience. Classes
Monday: 8pm - beginners // 9pm advanced. Wednesday: 8pm - beginners // 9pm advanced. The first class upon joining (you
can join at our Freshers' Week stall) is free, and subsequent classes are only €2. Comfortable clothing (tracksuits/t-shirts) is advised. Classes are structured and usually involve basic technique practice, pad-work and sparring. Often there will be self-defence lessons, board-breaking, stretching and general fitness training. Competitions are organised throughout the year for those who wish to test what they've learned and compete. One can compete either in pattern and movement demonstration, or sparring, or both. Training balances teaching of the traditional martial art with the
self-defence aspects, ensuring something for everyone at all levels of fitness. Our club was established in 1994, and has a strong social element. It is an excellent way to meet new people, keep fit, and take part in regular social events, organised by the committee. All classes are taught by instructor James Whelan, 5th Dan black belt.
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Taekwondo is a Korean martial art and Olympic sport (the only other Asian martial art practised in the Olympics being Judo). Taekwondo is characterized by its emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques. To facilitate fast, turning kicks, Taekwondo adopts stances that are narrower than the broader, wide stances used by martial arts such as karate (which focuses more on hand-strikes). Taekwondo tragitionally originates from martial arts practised in Korea during the 1940s and 1950s by the nine original kwans after the conclusion of the Japanese occupation of Korea at the end of World War II, in which Korean martial arts practices were banned. Taekwondo strengthens your body and improves your health through physical exercise and conditioning. Isometric and dynamic tension exercises will allow you to gain better muscle tone and more strength. A gradual building process of safe and easy stretching techniques will enhance flexibility, while breathing and concentration exercises lead to sharper reflexes and senses. The discipline of Taekwondo leads to increased energy, better health and fitness, greater coordination, and higher self-esteem. These qualities are vital to a happier, longer life, and especially benefits student life. Taekwondo, translated literally to "the way of foot and fist," is based
on ancient Korean martial arts. A means of self-defense, physical
conditioning, recreation and mental discipline, Taekwondo is recognised
not only as a traditional martial art, but also as an exciting sport
with powerful kicks and punches that emphasise continuous action,
endurance, skill and sportmanship.
