Taekwondo is a bare handed military art form and sport that that uses the hands and feet for attack and defence. The focus of Taekwondo is on training the mind along with the body, and for those learning the martial art it plays four different roles.

First, Taekwondo as an Exercise
Taekwondo is a good exercise for children who are still growing as well as a good way for grownups to increase their physical endurance. Taekwondo's movements require extensive use of the joints, which increases the limberness of one's body. And because there is kicking, jabbing, and shouting involved, it's also a great way to relieve stress.

Second, Taekwondo as a Bare Handed Martial Arts Form
Taekwondo attacks the opponent with bare hands and feet. What sets it apart from other martial arts forms are the powerful and various leg movements involved, and that is what has enabled it to become a worldwide martial art. Taekwondo's attack is aggressive, but at the same time the focus is more on the defence aspect. This can act positively for modern people wanting to learn Taekwondo as a way of self defence.

Third, Taekwondo as a Sport
Taekwondo is an official competitive category in major world sporting events such as the Olympics, Panama Games, Asian Games, All American Games, and South American Games. Competitive Taekwondo involves safety gear and set attacks and defences, as to limit the amount of damage possible. This way, competitive martial artists can enjoy the thrill of competing with less of the risks.

Fourth, Taekwondo as an Educational Method
Taekwondo trains the body, but does as much to develop the mind. The objective of learning Taekwondo is to foster growth in both areas in order to become a more mature human being. Taekwondo's disciples receive repeated etiquette lessons along with the attack and defence skills to build character.