What is The Difference Between Karate and Taekwondo?

Martial arts is not about fighting; it’s about building character.” — Bo Bennett

The art of martial arts has attracted humanity throughout the centuries. It is not only about the emphasis on physical fitness. It involves the trust that one develops through training. Besides, the practices are not only self-defense but also lifestyle. Karate and taekwondo are among the most common martial arts. The most common question many beginners and even parents wish to ask when they are thinking of enrolling their kids into any of the two schools is: What is the difference between karate and taekwondo? 

You may think that the two may be similar at first sight uniforms, belts, sparring, and kicks. However, the styles, philosophies, techniques when you pay more attention, the two different worlds stand out.

Now we enter into a karate vs taekwondo debate in easy terms so that you may properly see the difference and perhaps even come to a decision on which one fits you or your child.

The Origins: Japan vs Korea.

The most obvious difference between karate and taekwondo starts with their origin.

• Karate originated in Japan, in Okinawa with a strong influence of Chinese martial arts. It is translated literally as empty hand. Karate is concentrated in hitting with hands, fists, and elbowing. And It developed out of the necessity to defend themselves using no weapon.

• Taekwondo, however, is Korean. This is quite literally what the word means:

Tae = foot

Kwon = fist

Do = the way or path

Taekwondo meaning translates, “the way of the foot and the fist.” This martial art focuses more on kicks as opposed to hand techniques which are fast, high and powerful.

Here your difference can already be seen, that karate is more a hand based martial art, whereas taekwondo is infamously a kick based martial art.

Techniques: Hands vs Feet

When comparing taekwondo vs karate, the thing that initially comes to the mind of people is the dissimilarity between styles of movements.

Karate: Karate is characterized by punches, strikes and blocks. There are kicks but they are frequently low and practical kicks and are meant to end a fight fast. The gestures are angular, straight, and accurate. 

Taekwondo: Taekwondo is also characterized by flashy dynamic kicks. Spinning kicks, high roundhouses and flying kicks are popular. Although punches are instructed, agility and leg strength are stressed in the art. Most of the points are gained through kicks in tournaments. It is almost like one can feel a flying art when he watches a taekwondo demonstration.

In short: karate = hands first. Taekwondo = legs first.

Philosophy: Discipline vs Spirit

The difference between Taekwondo and karate also exists on the philosophies.

Philosophy of karate: Karate is based on discipline and self-defense. It is not only about fighting but about character building. The training lays stress on respect, humility, and self-control.

Taekwondo philosophy: Taekwondo is closely related to national pride and spirit, although respect is also a core issue in taekwondo. Taekwondo was used as a cultural identity in Korea. It is also a competitive, athletic sport nowadays, which brings it a competitive advantage.

That’s why, looking at taekwondo vs karate , karate is more traditional & meditative whereas taekwondo is more modern, competitive and performance-driven.

Training Styles: What to Expect in Class

In case you are considering enrolling in classes, the difference between taekwondo lessons and karate lessons is as follows:

You will also spend a lot of time at the karate class learning kata (forms) that include moves that train precision and control. You will train strikes, blocks and low quick kicks. Classes are usually rigid and organized and tradition is highly emphasized.

During taekwondo lessons, you will be doing a lot of kicking, stretching and sparring. Forms (poomsae) will also probably be practised, but there is more athletic element. Taekwondo is an Olympic game and therefore, schools regularly train students.

They both develop a sense of discipline and confidence and fitness, but the experience is different.

Uniforms and Belts

The two arts have white uniforms and a colored belt system, but with minor differences.

• Karate uniforms (gi) are normally heavier and shorter in the sleeves and pants.

• Taekwondo uniforms (dobok) are lighter and they are used in high kicks and fast movement.

The belt ranking systems are same, the systems begin with white and progress to black. However, the requirements vary with each school.

Competitions and Sports

When comparing karate vs taekwondo, competition style is another major difference.

• Karate contests usually include point sparring or full contact sparring and points are given upon clean hits. The competitions of kata also assess the performance of a practitioner by judging the sequence of movements.

• The Taekwando championships are more professionalized as it is an Olympic sport. Electronic scoring systems are used to register kicks to the body and head, which are rewarded based on speed, accuracy, and control. The viewers frequently watch lightning-paced kicks flying back and forth.

In case you are fond of sport and want to compete on the international level, taekwondo can provide you with more possibilities. Book a Free Trial class of Taekwondo at Hansoo.

Which One is Right for You?

Once having known the difference between taekwondo and karate, the next thing that comes to mind is: Which one is better to choose?

• Choose karate if:
  
  • You prefer hand techniques and practical self-defense.
  • You enjoy discipline, tradition, and precise movements.
  • You desire mental and physical training.
    
• Choose taekwondo if:
  
  • You love dynamic, high-energy kicking.
  • You’re drawn to Olympic-style competition.
  • You prefer more modern, sporting work out.

At the end, both arts educate and learn respect, confidence and resilience. No one is better, it is just a matter of objectives.

Final Take

There is no wonder why people mix karate and taekwondo when comparing the two. They both use uniforms, belts, and sparring. They both inculcate discipline and confidence. However, the difference between karateand taekwondo is in the details: karate is aimed at hitting hands and tradition whereas taekwondo is oriented at hitting the legs, agility, and sport.

In case you are not sure, you can have a lesson in both. You can be attracted to the exactness of karate or the flying kicks of taekwondo. One way or another martial arts can change your life.

Then the next time somebody asks you about the distinction between taekwondo and karate you will know the answer: The one is the way of the empty hand, the other is the way of the foot and fist. Both, though, are the means of drilling, fortitude, and self-confidence.