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Tae Kwon-Do is a relatively modern martial art but has its roots set in an ancient version practised for many centuries in Korea. Utilising kicks, hand strikes, blocks and dodges, it was developed as un-armed combat for the Korean Army.

Translated from the Korean, ‘Tae’ means to literally jump, kick and smash with the foot. ‘Kwon’ means to make a fist or destroy with the hand, and ‘Do’ translates as ‘the way’ or ‘the method.’ So the interpretation is ‘The way of the foot and fist’ and suggests the form of self defense used in hand to hand combat.

The founder of Tae Kwon-Do was Major General Choi Hong Hi, leader of the Korean 29th Infantry Division. Tae Kwon-Do got its rubber stamp following a display for  the first South Korean President, and was inaugerated on 11th April, 1955.

Tae Kwon-Do has become more than just a martial art to the Korean people, to them it suggests a way of thinking and being. With the five tenets; courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self control, indomitable spirit; it has become a way of life for many Korean people.

Because of its explosive power and dynamic kicks it has spread rapidly around the world and has given its practiotioners a fine weapon with which to defend themselves with, instilling confidence and a moral code. If wrongly used it can be lethal so practioners are urged to only use it as a last resort.

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    We can’t recommend BOP Tae Kwon-Do enough. The instructors are highly experienced, knowledgeable and kind. They offer a safe, fun, inclusive and disciplined environment. Our son has been learning TKD for a few years now and he always leaves feeling happy and accomplished. The discipline has given him a wealth of positive qualities, drive and determination to succeed to name a few. The instructors encourage good principles which are transferred to his character promoting good all round morals. The discipline encourages friendship, respect and has had an overwhelming positive effect on his life and wellbeing. We never hesitate to recommend this club to anyone. Thank you Guy and Lisa.

    Chris and Kim Jenner

    BOP is not your average academy but techniques 'with a twist'. Great for old, young, fit, unfit alike. It has greatly improved my self-confidence and is an extremely fun way to exercise; my general fitness has improved a lot from when I first started! It is a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends, and learn the art in a happy and relaxed environment.

    Phill UffendellOkehampton

    Sir and Ma'am are exceptional teachers. We took our three youngest for taster sessions before Christmas and they thoroughly enjoyed it! Win. We'd tried other clubs before but found that the teachings weren't compatible for those with additional needs, whereas at Bop there is plenty of understanding and patience whilst still managing to educate the class and make it fun for all. I highly recommend them as a Taekwondo school for all ages and abilities. You will not be disappointed.

    Jade

    My name is Daisy, and i've been coming to taekwondo for 7 years. I started when i was 5 years old .
    I love how iv always been pushed to try my hardest and how everyone supports everybody no matter what level they are. I've learnt so much and feel im constantly getting better. There's still so much to learn. It keeps pushing me to improve. I love it.

    Daisy

    My son started at BOP in 2019. He had been doing swimming lessons but wanted to try something new but he wasn’t sporty or into team sports. Since joining his confidence has improved and he has achieved many levels. Sir and Ma’am are great understanding teachers and they create a friendly supportive group of people.

    E.F