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Taekwondo: An art life
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Posted on Apr 26 2002
By Shan Seman
Staff Reporter
Taekwondo is one of the fastest growing martial arts in the world with over 30 million practitioners in more than 120 countries.
As a practical means of self-defense, a satisfying and complete regimen of physical conditioning and as an aid to improve concentration and mental performance, Taekwondo offers a total fitness program integrating the mind, body and spirit.
Taekwondo combines sharp, strong angular movements with graceful and free flowing circular movements to produce a harmonious balance of beauty.
There are several programs in Saipan that offer lessons about Taekwondo. Saipan Tribune recently caught up with Master Ron Loctao of the “Do” Pilsung Blackbelt Academy of Taekwondo and got a little insight on the art.
Most people view Taekwondo as an art that teaches students to fight but Loctao points out that it is totally the opposite.
“The purpose of the art is to develop confidence and a good self-esteem,” he said. “People who take up the art and expect to learn how to beat others up are going to lose that mentality after several lessons. The discipline and commitment that is needed in the art will enable them to avoid conflict and try to side-step altercations.”
Loctao also added that when in competition, your competitor isn’t the person standing in the opposite corner, but yourself.
Loctao has been involved in the art for the past 33 years, and has been teaching for about 18 months. His academy is currently located at the Saipan Fitness Center in Dandan.
