Leg Attacks

Taekwondo is known for its leg attacks. Taekwondo fighters are known for their kicking expertise. If you are to ever to become proficient at Taekwondo, you must master the kicking techniques.

Korea historically has been known for its great handiwork and culture. Hands were seen as a source of livelihood and for creating beautiful objects, and, as such, they were considered impractical for fighting. As a result, kicking was developed to protect hands from damage and a possible loss of income.

Korea is a very mountainous country. Traditionally, its people have traveled by walking. Walking over mountains and steep terrain for long periods greatly increases muscular strength in the legs. Additionally, the heavy shoes used for walking made effective weapons.

Koreans traditionally practiced games and activities requiring a great deal of skill. Historically, Taekkyon (precursor to Taekwondo) contests were played with kicking the head earning the highest number points—a tradition still used in modern Taekwondo free-sparring.

Koreans realized that the legs, being longer and stronger than the arms, make better striking weapons than the arms.