ABSTRACT
The following chapters will discuss taekwondo’s technical evolution, although, taekwondo’s development cannot be treated as a single event. Therefore, this study distinguishes, in principal, between ‘traditional taekwondo’ and ‘WTF-style sport (sparring/competition) taekwondo.’ This chapter examines the technical roots and modifications made in traditional taekwondo over time. Since the main training activity in traditional taekwondo consists of forms training, some overview of the forms used in early taekwondo, in comparison to karate pattern practice is helpful to establish and verify taekwondo’s lineage. Moreover, this discussion may provide further proof of taekwondo’s roots in karate. At first, this chapter explores the origin of forms training. Later, it documents the use of forms in early taekwondo, with the help of early Korean martial arts manuals. In addition, these manuals are briefly analyzed for their special features. Lastly, I will discuss recent developments regarding forms training.
