
Martial arts is a broad concept that covers many different forms of martial arts and traditional fighting techniques, including various forms of martial arts from different countries and cultures, such as Chinese Kung Fu, Japanese Karate, Thai Muay Thai, etc. However, here, I generally refer to Chinese martial arts. Taekwondo is one of the forms of martial arts, which originated from South Korea.
Taekwondo has its own unique Korean culture and values, emphasizing etiquette, respect and discipline. Martial arts are closely related to the culture and philosophy of the country or region to which it belongs. Chinese martial arts emphasize both internal and external cultivation, spiritual cultivation and philosophical thinking.
If you just want to strengthen your body, then Taekwondo, Sanda, fighting and other sports can achieve this effect. The reason why Taekwondo is more popular, I think, has to do with its relatively short training cycle, more systematic courses, more standardized promotion, and easier for novices to accept.
Taekwondo is famous for its unique kicking techniques, including dynamic kicking techniques such as high kicks, spinning kicks, and jumping kicks. It also includes arm techniques and some close combat techniques.
Chinese martial arts are extensive and profound, including boxing, kicking, elbowing, grappling, and weapons such as swords, guns, sticks, etc. There are many moves, and there are thousands of boxing alone. Due to the diversity of martial arts, different martial arts have different technical characteristics and styles. Some martial arts focus on close combat and technical accuracy, such as karate and boxing, but their promotion rules are not very clear, and the evaluation of the training results of novices is not obvious.
Taekwondo has a clear division of levels from white belt to black belt. Any of us can clearly see the training results and set clear goals at each level. Martial arts emphasize the use of hands and feet, and the combination of form and meaning. Taekwondo mainly practices leg techniques, with relatively few hand movements, which is easier for novices to accept.
Whether you choose other martial arts or Taekwondo, it depends on your personal interests, goals and physical conditions. If you are interested in kicking techniques and jumping movements, want to learn step by step and systematically, and have the opportunity to participate in competitive competitions, then Taekwondo may be a good choice; if you are interested in more comprehensive techniques, traditional culture and philosophy, and just want to strengthen your body without any other requirements, then other forms of martial arts may be more suitable for you.