Fundamental Tenets and Benefits of Tang Soo Do
Tang Soo Do, a traditional Korean martial art, emphasizes the development of physical, mental, and spiritual health. It encompasses a rich set of principles and practices that not only enhance self-defense capabilities but also promote a balanced and harmonious lifestyle. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the fundamental tenets of Tang Soo Do and explore how these principles benefit practitioners.
Historical Background of Tang Soo Do
Tang Soo Do, often translated as "The Way of the Tang Hand," traces its roots back to ancient Korean martial arts. It incorporates elements from various martial arts styles, including Taekkyeon and Karate, resulting in a unique blend that emphasizes both hard and soft techniques. Grandmaster Jae C. Shin played a pivotal role in popularizing Tang Soo Do worldwide, promoting its values of traditionalism, professionalism, and brotherhood.
Core Principles and Tenets
The philosophy of Tang Soo Do is grounded in a set of fundamental principles designed to guide practitioners in their training and daily lives. These principles include the Five Codes of Tang Soo Do, the Seven Tenets of Tang Soo Do, and the Fourteen Attitude Requirements.
Five Codes of Tang Soo Do
The Five Codes serve as moral guidelines for all practitioners. They are:
- Loyalty to country
- Obedience to parents
- Honor friendship
- No retreat in battle
- In fighting, choose with sense and honor
Seven Tenets of Tang Soo Do
The Seven Tenets encapsulate the core values that every Tang Soo Do practitioner should embody. They are:
- Integrity
- Concentration
- Perseverance
- Respect and Obedience
- Self-Control
- Humility
- Indomitable Spirit
Fourteen Attitude Requirements
These requirements are designed to foster a disciplined and dedicated approach to training:
- Purpose of training should be the enhancement of mental and physical betterment.
- Serious approach.
- All out effort.
- Maintain regular and constant practice.
- Practice basic techniques all the time.
- Regularly spaced practice sessions.
- Always listen to and follow the direction of instructors or seniors.
- Do not be overly ambitious.
- Frequently inspect your own achievements.
- Always follow a routine training schedule.
- Repeatedly practice all techniques already learned.
- When you learn new techniques, learn thoroughly the theory and philosophy as well.
- When you begin to feel idle, try to overcome this.
- Cleanliness is required after training. Keep yourself and your surroundings clean.
Benefits of Practicing Tang Soo Do
The practice of Tang Soo Do offers numerous benefits that extend beyond self-defense skills. These benefits can be categorized into physical, mental, and spiritual aspects.
Physical Benefits
Regular training in Tang Soo Do promotes physical health through rigorous exercise. Practitioners develop strength, flexibility, endurance, and coordination. The practice also includes specific techniques that enhance cardiovascular health and overall physical fitness.
Mental Benefits
Tang Soo Do training fosters mental clarity, focus, and discipline. The concentration required during practice helps in improving attention span and cognitive function. Practitioners learn to manage stress effectively, enhancing their ability to remain calm and composed under pressure.
Spiritual Benefits
At its core, Tang Soo Do is a journey towards self-improvement and inner peace. The principles and tenets encourage practitioners to cultivate virtues such as humility, integrity, and respect. This spiritual growth leads to a more harmonious and fulfilling life.
Conclusion
Tang Soo Do is more than just a martial art; it is a way of life that emphasizes the harmonious development of body, mind, and spirit. By adhering to its core principles and diligently practicing its techniques, practitioners can achieve a well-rounded and balanced life, reaping the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits that Tang Soo Do has to offer.