Para Taekwondo

One taekwondo participant kicking another in the arm.

Para Taekwondo Kyorugi (By TKD at World Para Taekwondo - CC License)

Para Taekwondo is Korean martial art and parasport that focuses on kicking techniques. Para Taekwondo students learn form, sparring, breaking (which includes the breaking of boards or other materials), and mental focus. Typical rankings in Para Taekwondo are separated into "geup" (or junior) rankings, which are colour belts. The student begins with a high-numbered belt, and then progresses to the first "geup,” which signals the beginning of the senior ranks, or "dan," which are black belts. There are few rule differencess between Para Taekwondo and Taekwondo. At the elite level, the main distinctions revolve around disability classifications, which are broken down into the following: A5, amputation of both limbs above the elbow; A6, amputation of one limb above the elbow; A7, amputation of both limbs below the elbow; and A8, amputation of one limb below the elbow.

What are the origins of the activity abroad and in Canada?

In 2006, the Para Taekwondo Committee was formed to promote the sport. The first official training session in the GTA was organized in 2014.

Who takes part?

Males and females of diverse ages and ethnocultural backgrounds with a range of physical disabilities.

When does it occur / How often do you take part?

In the GTA, para archery competitions occur regularly and athletes train year round.

Are there any organized clubs, groups, organizations or leagues?

There are no taekwondo facilities in the GTA that are specifically focused on Para Taekwondo. Given the easy adaptations for Para Taekwondo, it can be practiced at traditional Taekwondo facilities.

Cultural Significance

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Is there anything else we should know?

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One taekwondo participant kicking another in the arm.