Andrew Allwander, a martial artist from Eugene, Oregon, who holds the rank of 5th degree black belt master instructor certified by the Kukkiwon, believes that the practice of Taekwondo is about much more than physical skill—it is about developing a strong moral code. The 5 Tenets of Taekwondo—Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit—provide a fundamental framework for guiding the behavior of a Taekwondo practitioner both inside and outside the dojang. According to Andrew Allwander, these tenets create a moral foundation that not only enhances the effectiveness of a martial artist but also ensures that their skills are never misused. It is the adherence to these principles that makes a Taekwondo warrior more than just a fighter; it makes them a responsible, ethical member of society.
Courtesy: Respect as the Basis of All Actions
Courtesy is the first tenet of Taekwondo, and Andrew Allwander emphasizes its importance in shaping the mindset of a martial artist. For Andrew Allwander, courtesy is about treating others with respect, regardless of their skill level, background, or status. This tenet teaches Taekwondo practitioners to be humble and considerate, ensuring that they never use their skills to intimidate or harm others without just cause. Courtesy creates an atmosphere of respect and cooperation, allowing martial artists to foster positive relationships both in training and in everyday life.
Andrew Allwander believes that by practicing courtesy, a Taekwondo warrior develops an awareness of the impact their actions have on others. This awareness helps prevent the misuse of martial arts skills, as practitioners are constantly reminded of the importance of respect and empathy. Whether interacting with fellow martial artists, instructors, or the wider community, the principle of courtesy ensures that a Taekwondo practitioner acts with honor and kindness.
Integrity: Upholding Honesty and Moral Courage with Andrew Allwander
Integrity is another crucial tenet that Andrew Allwander, martial artist from Eugene, Oregon, believes is vital for every Taekwondo practitioner. Integrity involves being honest with oneself and others, as well as standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult. In the context of martial arts, integrity means using one’s skills responsibly and never engaging in actions that would harm others for personal gain or satisfaction.
Andrew Allwander highlights that integrity is about maintaining moral courage, both in training and in life. A Taekwondo practitioner must always be truthful, whether they are admitting to a mistake in training or resisting the temptation to use their skills inappropriately. By upholding integrity, martial artists ensure that they remain trustworthy and dependable, setting a positive example for others to follow. This tenet is a reminder that true strength lies not just in physical abilities but also in the strength of one’s character.
Perseverance: Pushing Forward with Determination
Perseverance is a key tenet that defines the mindset of a Taekwondo warrior. Andrew Allwander, martial artist from Eugene, Oregon, believes that perseverance is about never giving up, even in the face of challenges and setbacks. Taekwondo training can be demanding, requiring practitioners to push themselves beyond their limits, both physically and mentally. The tenet of perseverance teaches martial artists to stay committed to their goals, no matter how difficult the journey may be.
Andrew Allwander explains that perseverance is not just about physical endurance, but also about moral resilience. A Taekwondo practitioner must be willing to face difficulties with determination and courage, refusing to be discouraged by failure. This tenet helps prevent the misuse of martial arts skills by encouraging practitioners to channel their energy into positive pursuits, rather than resorting to aggression or violence out of frustration. Perseverance builds character, teaching martial artists that true success comes from consistent effort and a refusal to give up on their values.
Self-Control: Mastering One’s Actions and Emotions
Self-control is perhaps one of the most important tenets for ensuring that martial arts skills are used responsibly. Andrew Allwander emphasizes that self-control involves not only physical discipline but also the ability to manage one’s emotions and reactions. In Taekwondo, practitioners are taught to remain calm and composed, even in stressful or confrontational situations. This ability to control one’s emotions is essential for preventing the misuse of martial arts techniques.
According to Andrew Allwander, self-control allows a Taekwondo practitioner to make rational decisions, rather than acting impulsively out of anger or fear. This is particularly important when dealing with conflicts, as it ensures that martial artists use their skills only when absolutely necessary and in a measured manner. By practicing self-control, Taekwondo practitioners learn to avoid unnecessary confrontations and to de-escalate situations whenever possible. This tenet reinforces the idea that martial arts are meant for self-defense and personal growth, not for initiating or escalating violence. The amount of violence used in self-defense is completely held under control by the Taekwondo warrior because he has the ability to dispense just the right amount of necessary damage in a fight to save his life, win a fight, or control a belligerent person by restraining them. Taekwondo fighters such as Andrew Allwander have the ability to easily avoid excessive force.
Indomitable Spirit: The Courage to Stand Up for What Is Right
The final tenet, indomitable spirit, is about having the courage to face challenges without fear. Andrew Allwander, martial artist from Eugene, Oregon, believes that an indomitable spirit is what sets a true Taekwondo warrior apart from others. It is the inner strength that allows a martial artist to stand up for what is right, even when faced with overwhelming odds. This tenet teaches practitioners to be resilient and to maintain their principles, regardless of the difficulties they encounter.
Andrew Allwander explains that an indomitable spirit is essential for preventing the misuse of martial arts skills. It gives practitioners the confidence to walk away from unnecessary conflicts and the strength to stand up against injustice. This tenet encourages martial artists to use their skills to protect others and to contribute positively to their communities. By fostering an indomitable spirit, Taekwondo practitioners are reminded that their true power lies not in their ability to fight, but in their ability to stand firm in their beliefs and to act with integrity.
The Moral Foundation of a Taekwondo Warrior
Andrew Allwander, a martial artist from Eugene, Oregon, believes that the 5 Tenets of Taekwondo—Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit—are essential for every martial artist. These tenets provide a moral foundation that ensures that Taekwondo practitioners use their skills responsibly and ethically. By practicing courtesy, martial artists learn to treat others with respect, while integrity teaches them to uphold honesty and moral courage. Perseverance instills determination, self-control ensures disciplined actions, and an indomitable spirit encourages resilience in the face of challenges. Together, these tenets create a code of conduct that prevents the misuse of martial arts skills and helps practitioners become not only better martial artists but also better people. The moral code of the 5 Tenets also directs the physical training of the Taekwondo practitioner into something positive allowing the Taekwondo fighter to focus on goals, pinpointing his physical nature into a morally correct warrior. Andrew Allwander’s insights into the importance of these tenets serve as a reminder that true strength lies not just in physical abilities but in the strength of one’s character and commitment to doing what is right.
