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The WTF stands for the World Taekwondo
Federation. Formed in 1973, the WTF is the largest martial arts
organization in the world, and is the governing body for Taekwondo
worldwide. The WTF is the parent organization for the Estonian Taekwondo
WTF Federation, which is the national governing body for the WTF in
Estonia. The WTF is also the governing organization for Taekwondo in the
Olympics. While the WTF has remained the largest and most successful, there also are other organizations that teach different styles of Taekwondo. ITF and ATA are examples of such organizations. The belts are a way of ranking students according to their progress. Each color signifies a general measure of a student's knowledge and ability. The beginning levels are white, yellow, and orange. The intermediate levels are green, purple, and blue. The advanced levels are brown, red, and black. There are specific requirements that a student must meet and perform at a regularly scheduled promotion test in order to move up to the next belt level. The Instructor closely monitors each student's progress and select students for testing. Anyone can learn and enjoy Taekwondo. Male or female, large or small, strong or weak, child, teenager or adult... all can be taught the dynamic techniques of Taekwondo. One of the great advantages of Taekwondo as a Martial Art is that it is not only a superior Art of self-defence, but will also enhance every aspect of the individual's mental and physical well-being. The Practice of Taekwondo imparts to each individual practitioner self-control, self-confidence, physical fitness, superior mental self-discipline, high moral standards, improved psychological outlook, and overall strength of character. Such qualities, combined with a healthy, active, powerful body, benefit not only the individual practitioner and their family - but also the nation. Many of the movements involve beneficial stretching of the arms, legs and torso. The practitioner of this Art will achieve a high degree of aerobic (heart/lung) fitness. The muscles of the body will be toned and stimulated. He or she will lose weight and eventually achieve a perfect figure - proportionate, strong and graceful. Furthermore, the mental aspects of Taekwondo will enable you to develop a far more serene and peaceful attitude to life in general. Taekwondo offers a variety of benefits to children. In addition to gaining a sense of individual accomplishment, often lacking in team sports, children will improve their poise, self-confidence, and self-discipline. This will carry into their home life and school work. In addition, they learn to be "street smart", to think instead of panic in potentially serious situations as well as how to react to threats from other kids. Discipline and respect are taught by leadership and example, not by fear of force, making this a positive character building environment for children and teenagers.
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