Weapons

Although many Taekwondo dojangs do not teach the use of weapons, weapons are still an integral part of any martial art. This weapons topic discusses traditional martial arts weapons and contemporary street weapons, other than firearms or explosives. Weapons may be classified as defensive or offensive. A defensive weapon is used primarily for defense against an attack. It is not intended to harm the attacker seriously; rather, it is intended to discourage further attack. An offensive weapon may be used for defensive purposes but it is used with the intent to harm the attacker seriously to discourage further attack or to render the attacker unable to continue the attack.

Weapons training is a specialized area of training that is most appropriately taught after basic empty hand skills are mastered. Since the body and mind move and control the weapon, it is appropriate first to have good coordination. Although it is possible to develop the body and learn weapon usage simultaneously, as some systems such as Escrima and Kali do, it is easier to develop basic body coordination first and then add weapons training.