Two forms of Taekwondo are practised in Britain. One by affiliates of the International Taekwondo Federation and the other by the World Taekwondo Federation. WTF Taekwondo has been accepted by the international Olympic Committee and the British Olympic Association.

WTF Taekwondo sport is fought by contestants wearing body armour. Full contact kicks and punches delivered with correct form to specific target areas score points. These accumulate through a number of rounds. ITF sport Taekwondo uses light contact with hands and feet protected by padded gloves and boots. In both cases the winner scores the most points.

The uniform (tobok) comprises trousers and either a wrap-over jacket or a vee neck tunic. Black belts sometimes wear black trimming on their uniforms. Levels of ability are marked by coloured belts. Below black belt these are called ‘Kup’ grades. Degrees of ability and experience in Black Belts are referred to as ‘Dan’ grades.

Training is usually practised in lines, starting with warm-up exercises and progressing to the practice of various basic techniques separately and in combination. Techniques are also practised with a partner. Free sparring develops co-ordination and speedy reflexes.

A large number of Taekwondo clubs, groups and associations within NAKMAS are currently represented.

20 September 2011

NAKMAS joins ''elite'' British Sport with latest accolate

01 August 2011

NAKMAS' Sandra Beale-Ellis featured in the MAI July 2011 magazine