Monday, March 23, 2009

Taekwondo's immense international popularity has made it the fastest growing martial art in the world today. One of only two martial arts recognized by the International Olympic Committee, taekwondo offers combat techniques with proven effectiveness as a means of self-defense, but also has metaphysical and philosophical aspects derived from Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism which attract those seeking more than a simple, physical workout.

Doug Cook, 5th dan black belt master instructor, will explain some of the key elements of taekowndo, talk about the formative years of this unique Korean martial discipline, and highlight the distinction between the practice of the traditional art and the combat sport of taekwondo.

About the Presenter

Master Doug Cook is a certified taekwondo instructor, referee and the owner of Chosun Taekwondo Academy in Warwick, New York. A student of world-renowned 9th dan black belt grandmaster Richard Chun, Cook holds a 5th dan black belt in taekwondo. He has trained the U.S. Army National Guard, the Department of Homeland Security, the New York City Police Department and the Bronx County Sheriff’s Department. Named by Black Belt magazine as one of America’s top 20 taekwondo instructors, he has been recognized by the Republic of Korea and the World Taekwondo Federation for his work to strengthen the U.S.-Korea relationship through martial arts. Cook is the author of Taekwondo: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior and Traditional Taekwondo—Core Techniques, History and Philosophy.