Tenets of Taekwondo

There are five tenets of Tae Kwon-do. Tenets are general principles and beliefs that are held to be true. Needless to say, the success or failure of Tae Kwon-do training depends largely on how one observes and implements the tenets of Tae Kwon-do, which should serve as a guide for all serious students of the art. The five tenets are: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self Control, and Indomitable Spirit:

COURTESY: Refers to the student's ability to respect oneself, as well as others. Respecting oneself includes obtaining proper nutrition, rest, and physical exercise. Respecting others involves consistently demonstrating a gracious, just and helpful attitude and behavior toward other people.

INTEGRITY: Refers to the student's adherence to an honor code of behavior. This concept entails the student striving to be honest with oneself and others in both thought and action. This approach enables the student to develop their strengths and minimize their weaknesses.

PERSEVERANCE: Refers to the student holding steadfast to a course of action, belief, or purpose. This tenet governs the student's tenacity or ability to complete what is begun.

SELF CONTROL: Refers to the student's capability to keep their emotions consistent and in balance over time. Developing this principle will permit the student to better live in harmony with self and their environment.

INDOMITABLE SPIRIT: Refers to the student freeing his spirit in a manner which enables him to achieve the greatest level of potential. This ideal also encourages the student to tirelessly pursue and stand firmly for the principles he or she holds to be true.