Interactive Explainer
TaekwondoRead the Gamefrom the Bench
A Korean striking art known for its emphasis on kicking technique. Students train in two main disciplines: Kyorugi (sparring) and Poomsae (choreographed forms) — competitions usually cover one or both.
Sport DNA
Competition Area
8m × 8m (Olympic/WT)
Smaller mat areas common for kids classes
Match Length
3 rounds × 2 min
1 min rest between rounds (Olympic/WT format)
Weight Classes
8 Olympic divisions (WT)
Youth tournaments use their own weight brackets
Belt Ranks
White → Yellow → Green → Blue → Red → Black
Exact colors/order vary by academy/federation
Format
1-on-1
Sparring (Kyorugi) and solo forms (Poomsae)
Countries Playing
210+ World Taekwondo member nations
Olympic sport since 2000 (Sydney)
Founded
Korea, 1950s
Unified from earlier Korean martial arts traditions
Parent's Cheat Sheet
What just happened?
Official Wording
Points are awarded electronically or by judges for strikes landing on legal scoring areas (torso, head), with kicks to the head worth more than punches or body kicks.
Parent Translation
Head kicks score the most, which is why you'll see so much emphasis on kicking height and technique in class. Many competitions use electronic scoring socks/vests (called a PSS) that register a strike automatically — no judge argument needed.
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Before the Start
Essential Gear
See all 10 itemsDobok (Uniform)
The traditional uniform. Most academies sell one directly, sometimes with a school patch — check before buying elsewhere.
Est. $25 – $50
Starter Belt (White)
Usually included with the dobok. New belts are earned/purchased at each promotion test.
Est. Included or $8 – $12
Sparring Gloves (Hand & Foot)
Required once a student starts sparring — usually a color-matched hand/foot set. Federations (WT vs. ITF) sometimes differ on exact requirements, so check with your instructor first.
Est. $25 – $45
Headgear
Required for sparring at nearly every academy.
Est. $30 – $55
Full gear guide
6 must-haves · 10 items total · Est. $90 – $260
