WTC v. ITC?

[Scorcho]

I know that there are two (at least) federations for TKD fighting, and I hope I got the names right. One is used in the Olympics, and at least in my understanding and from what I saw, has almost no scoring for hand techniques. The other uses hands, though only straight punches.

 

Which is which? What are the other differences? As a karate practicioner, I find TKD in the Olympics funny because the guys will be two feet appart and trying to kick each other, but what do you TKD practicioners think?

[John G]

I think you are referring to WTF (world tae kwon do federation) and ITF (international taekwon do federation).

 

WTF sparing was represented in the Olympics, I tend to agree that it looked a bit funny, but thats because I didn't understand the point scoring system employed.

 

WTF tends towards but is not exclusively sports orientated, ITF tends towards but is not exclusively martial arts orientated.

 

With regard to what I think about TKD in the Olympics, for a start its only the sports side of TKD and has little or no relevants to the martial arts aspect of TKD.

 

The competitors like any athlete have spent many years honing their skills to take part in the Olympics, and should be congratulated for representing their respective country's in these events.

 

As far as a spectators sport its akin to watching a game of chess, if you know the rules it can be exciting else if you don't you would be better off watching paint dry.

 

...

[White_Tiger]

John G...I couldn't have said it better!

[Guy_Mendiola]

in my dojang we do mostly ITF Tae Kwon Do and all of the ITF forms and patterns etc.

[Scorcho]

Thanks a lot for the info, and for the correction on the names. No insult was intended to those who participate in the Olympics, it just looks kind of funny to a karate-ka like me.

 

Anyway, thanks.