Students of taekwondo can develop strong physical fitness and mental strength through basic techniques, patterns ( poomse ), arranged sparring ( machuo kyorugi ) and free sparring ( jayu kyorugi ). The taekwondo practitioner can prepare him/herself for competition and threatening situations.

Taekwondo is not only fitness but a way of life. It is a way of improving the self through constant internal struggles between the positive and negative self. The ultimate winner is the one who can conquer him/herself. The one who can win him/herself can eventually win over the opponent.

Kyorugi is a match between two players Chung ( blue ) and Hong ( red ) using offensive and defensive skills acquired through the practise of taekwondo.There are two types of sparring used in taekwondo and these are arranged sparring ( machuo kyorugi ) and free sparring ( jayu kyorugi ). In sport taekwondo free sparring ( jayu kyorugi ) is used.

Protective equipment required

Techniques for scoring points in a match include punching and kicks. Punches can only be used on the front trunk of the body ( the area covered by the chest guard ) and kicks can be used against the open part of the face ( not covered by the head guard ) and body ( covered by chest guard ) but must not be below the belt as this is not allowed. A point is scored on any striking technique that is accurately and powerfully delivered on the valid areas. The points are scored by three judges and a point is gained when at least two of the judges witness the correct technique. The player who wins is decided by points or a knock out. In the case of a draw the winner is decided by the rule of superiority.

Illegal techniques and behavior are penalised either by a half point or full point deduction and these are judged by the match referee. Three full penalty points will result in a player being disqualified.

The match is officiated by a head of court , a referee, three corner judges, a timekeeper and a recorder.