Kyokushin vs. Tang Soo Do

Attribute	Kyokushin	Tang Soo Do
Founder	Masutatsu Oyama	Hwang Kee
Country of Origin	Japan	Korea
Meaning	Ultimate Truth
Uniform	White gi with black belt	White gi with colored belt
Sparring	Full-contact	Point sparring

History

Kyokushin and Tang Soo Do are both traditional martial arts that have roots in Korea and Japan, respectively. Kyokushin was founded by Masutatsu Oyama in the 1960s, with a focus on full-contact sparring and physical conditioning. Tang Soo Do, on the other hand, has a longer history dating back to the early 20th century and is a Korean martial art that combines elements of Shotokan karate and Chinese martial arts.

Techniques

Both Kyokushin and Tang Soo Do emphasize strong, powerful strikes and kicks. However, Kyokushin is known for its emphasis on low kicks and powerful punches, while Tang Soo Do practitioners often focus on high kicks and fluid movements. Kyokushin also incorporates a lot of close-range fighting techniques, such as elbow strikes and knee strikes, while Tang Soo Do practitioners often use more traditional karate techniques like blocks and strikes.

Training

Training in Kyokushin is known for its intense physical conditioning, with practitioners often engaging in grueling workouts to build strength and endurance. Sparring in Kyokushin is full-contact, with fighters wearing minimal protective gear. In contrast, Tang Soo Do training often includes forms (katas) and self-defense techniques, in addition to sparring. Tang Soo Do practitioners also focus on developing mental discipline and character through their training.

Philosophy

Both Kyokushin and Tang Soo Do have strong philosophical foundations that emphasize respect, discipline, and humility. Kyokushin practitioners often follow the principles of the "Kyokushin Spirit," which includes perseverance, indomitable spirit, and self-control. Tang Soo Do practitioners, on the other hand, follow the tenets of the "Moo Do" philosophy, which includes loyalty, obedience, and righteousness.

Ranking System

Both Kyokushin and Tang Soo Do use colored belts to signify rank, with students progressing from white belt to black belt and beyond. In Kyokushin, there are fewer belt ranks compared to Tang Soo Do, with practitioners often spending longer periods at each rank. Tang Soo Do, on the other hand, has more belt ranks and often includes additional colored belts between the traditional white and black belts.

Competition

Kyokushin is known for its full-contact, knockdown style of competition, where fighters aim to knock their opponents down to win. Competitions in Kyokushin can be intense and physically demanding, with fighters testing their skills against opponents from around the world. Tang Soo Do competitions, on the other hand, often include forms competitions, sparring matches, and board breaking demonstrations, with a focus on technique and precision.

Conclusion

While Kyokushin and Tang Soo Do share some similarities in their techniques and philosophy, they also have distinct differences in their training methods, competition styles, and history. Whether you choose to practice Kyokushin or Tang Soo Do, both martial arts offer valuable lessons in discipline, respect, and self-improvement. Ultimately, the choice between Kyokushin and Tang Soo Do comes down to personal preference and what you hope to gain from your martial arts practice.