Geomdo
What is Geomdo?
Geomdo (also spelled Kumdo or Gumdo) is a modern Korean martial art that focuses on swordsmanship. It is similar to the Japanese martial art of Kendo, which it is derived from. The term "Geomdo" translates to "the way of the sword" in Korean.
Key Features of Geomdo:
- Techniques and Forms: Practitioners learn various techniques for striking, blocking, and countering with a sword. Forms, or "kata" in Japanese, are also practiced to refine technique and understanding of movements.
- Equipment: Geomdo practitioners use bamboo swords called jukdo for practice and sparring, and wooden swords called mokgeom for practicing forms. Protective gear, known as ho-gu, is worn during sparring to prevent injury.
- Sparring: Known as gyeorugi, sparring is a key component of training where practitioners test their skills against one another in a controlled environment.
- Philosophy: Like many martial arts, Geomdo emphasizes discipline, respect, and the development of both physical and mental strength.
- Competitions: Competitions are held where practitioners can test their skills in a regulated and competitive setting. Points are scored for valid strikes to specific target areas.
Geomdo is practiced by people of all ages and is valued not only as a martial art but also as a way to develop character and maintain physical fitness.
Related Article: Brief History of Swordsmanship
Self-defense is clearly my focus in this book. What is it? It is the recovery from stupidity or bad luck—from finding yourself in a position you would have given almost anything to prevent. It is difficult to train for because of the surprise element and the possibility of being injured before you are even aware of the conflict. The critical element is to overcome the shock and surprise so that you can act—to “beat the freeze.” Self-defense is about recovery. The ideal, however, is to prevent the situation altogether.
Rory Miller