Karate

October 17, 2024

How to Choose Your Karategi

If you’re thinking about starting karate and don’t know how to choose your karategi, here are some basic recommendations. The first thing to consider is that there are different types of karategis, each designed for specific uses within the practice.

Karategis mainly vary depending on the type of training: some are more suitable for everyday practice, while others are designed for kumite (sparring) or kata (forms). There are also differences based on your level as a practitioner: beginners usually use simpler models, while intermediate, advanced, or competitive practitioners require more specialized karategis. The right choice will depend on your needs and goals in karate.

General Training Karategi

This is the most common type of karategi and is intended for daily training at the dojo or club. It’s designed for regular practice of basic techniques, kumite, and kata without competition purposes. Its main characteristics are:

– Lightweight and comfortable for easy movement.

– Made of cotton or a cotton-polyester blend.

– Suitable for both beginners and intermediate practitioners.

Within this category are also those known as “Kohai” (apprentice), “New Ipon” (basic), and “Shodan” (first degree).

Click here to choose your karategi training

Kumite Karategi

The kumite karategi is specifically designed for kumite (sparring) practice, where greater agility and freedom of movement are needed. Its main features are:

– Extreme lightness: its fabric is thinner to facilitate fast movements and reduce air resistance.

– Looser fit: so that the karategi doesn’t interfere with sparring and allows the user to move easily.

– Usually made of polyester.

Click here to choose your karategi of kumite

Kata Karategi

The kata karategi is designed for the forms or established movement patterns of karate. It is mainly used for kata competitions, where precision and presentation are crucial. Its distinctive characteristics are:

– Thicker, heavier fabric: gives the uniform more structure, providing better presentation during kata execution.

– Wider cut: allows for larger movements with greater precision.

– It often makes a characteristic sound during fast movements, which highlights the technique in competitions.

Click here to choose your karategi of kata

Key Differences in Karategis

– Fabric weight: karategis can be classified as lightweight, medium, or heavyweight, depending on whether they are designed for kumite or kata.

– Cut: the cut can be tighter (for kumite) or looser (for kata), depending on the practitioner’s needs.

– Regulations: karategis for official competitions must comply with specific federation regulations, such as measurements, color, and logo.

In short, to choose the right karategi, you should consider the type of practice you will do and your level as a practitioner. If you are a beginner or are looking for a karategi for general training, opt for a light and comfortable one, suitable for daily use in the dojo. If your focus is on kumite, you will need a lighter and looser karategi that allows you to move with agility in combat. On the other hand, if you practice kata, it is best to choose a karategi with a thicker fabric and a wide cut that highlights your movements during execution. Also, if you plan to compete, make sure that the karategi complies with the federations’ regulations. The right choice will depend on your specific needs and karate goals.

Karate

October 14, 2024

How to Reinvent Yourself at 40 by Practicing Karate

It’s never too late to start training, and karate is an excellent option, even at 40!

If you’re considering getting back into exercise, karate might be exactly what you need. Unlike other more aggressive sports, this discipline adapts to any age and fitness level. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never practiced it before or if you did years ago, you can always start again safely and without pressure. In fact, there are people who begin at 30, 40, or older and continue training for decades.

We know that after 30, changing habits can be challenging. Your body is already used to certain routines, and sometimes the fear of not having the same energy as when you were younger becomes an obstacle. You might justify it by saying, “I’m not 20 anymore!” or “I used to play sports when I was younger, but I can’t now.” But those are just excuses that limit you. The real obstacle isn’t your age, but how you approach change. Karate doesn’t require you to train as if you’re competing right away. Instead, it adapts to your level, lets you progress at your own pace, and most importantly, allows you to enjoy the process.

What can karate do for you at 40?

– Strengthen your body: You’d be surprised what you can achieve! Karate develops strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance. Wouldn’t you like to feel more agile and fit without the monotony of conventional workouts? Plus, you’ll improve your coordination and work your entire body without overwhelming yourself.

– Reduce stress and anxiety: With the fast-paced lives we lead, learning to relax and focus is crucial. Karate teaches you self-control, how to focus on the present, and how to let go of worries. Every training session is an opportunity to release tension and improve your emotional well-being.

– Self-defense and confidence: Learning to defend yourself has no age limit. Karate teaches effective techniques that not only strengthen your body but also your confidence. As you progress, you’ll feel more secure and capable, both in class and in daily life.

– Be part of a community: Karate training is more than physical exercise; it’s a space of respect, camaraderie, and mutual support. You’ll be surrounded by people who, like you, are looking to improve and enjoy the process. Plus, it’s always motivating to have someone to share achievements and challenges with.

– Set goals and surpass yourself: In karate, every belt represents a new challenge overcome, which becomes a continuous source of motivation. Imagine how satisfying it will be to see yourself advancing, overcoming your own barriers, and achieving each new rank.

The greatest benefit of all is that you’ll reconnect with yourself. Through discipline and consistency, you will not only strengthen your body but also your mind. Karate will help you regain muscle tone, improve your body memory, and most importantly, regain confidence in what you’re capable of achieving.

What precautions should you take before practicing karate?

Before starting karate, especially if you’re 40 or older, it’s essential to take some precautions to ensure you’re doing it safely and healthily:

– Medical consultation: If you haven’t exercised in a long time or if you have any illnesses or injuries, it’s recommended to consult your doctor before starting. This is particularly important if you have cardiovascular problems, joint issues, or any chronic conditions. Your doctor will be able to assess your health and provide personalized recommendations.

– Listen to your body: It’s important to respect your limits. Although karate is adaptable, it’s always better to start slowly and not push yourself too hard at first. As your body adapts to training, you can gradually increase the intensity. If at any point you feel pain or discomfort, stop and consult a specialist if necessary.

– Mention any physical issues to your instructor: If you have any limitations or injuries, be sure to inform your instructor. Karate trainers are trained to adapt exercises and movements to the needs of each student. This way, you can practice safely without putting your health at risk.

– Warm up and stretch: Like in any physical activity, it’s essential to dedicate time to warming up and stretching before and after training. This will help prevent injuries, improve flexibility, and prepare your body for physical exertion.

– Gradual progression: Even if you feel motivated, it’s important to progress gradually. Don’t pressure yourself to achieve everything right away. Karate is an art that takes time, and the most important thing is to enjoy the process without jeopardizing your well-being.

In conclusion

Karate not only strengthens the body but also promotes the development of character, discipline, and mind. As we age, these qualities become even more valuable, as they help us face daily challenges with a more balanced and positive attitude.

For adults, practicing karate offers a rich and comprehensive experience. The combination of physical exercise, technical learning, and mental growth makes this discipline especially appealing to those seeking more than just a sport. It’s also an excellent way to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle throughout the years.

In the end, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey, learn at your own pace, and allow yourself to rediscover your potential through karate. Whether it’s to improve your fitness, relieve stress, or strengthen your character, karate at 40 (or any age) opens the door to new possibilities, a more balanced life, and greater well-being. Now is the perfect time to take that first step!

Judo

September 25, 2024

Complete Guide to Caring for Your Judogi and Maket It Last Longer

A judogi is more than just a uniform. It represents dedication, discipline, and respect in every training session. However, with time and frequent use, the judogi can start to wear out, lose color, or even develop unpleasant odors. Additionally, a poorly cared-for judogi can become a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially affecting your health and that of your training partners. That’s why having a proper cleaning and care routine is essential.

Essential Tips for Washing Your Judogi

Always wash it in cold water (maximum 40°C / 104°F)
Hot water can shrink the fabric and damage the fibers of your judogi. Always use cold water to protect its integrity without rubbing the fabric.

Avoid using the washing machine
While it’s a quick option, the washing machine can damage the fibers and the lapels of the uniform, especially in aggressive cycles. If you decide to use it, choose the gentlest cycle and make sure to turn your judogi inside out to protect the seams and patches.

Ventilation is key
If you can’t wash your judogi immediately after training, be sure to air it out. Hanging it outdoors will help prevent moisture buildup and bad odors. Odor is harder to remove if not addressed promptly.

How to Properly Dry Your Judogi

Drying is another crucial aspect. To keep your judogi in optimal condition:

Avoid direct sunlight
Sunlight can accelerate the fading process and deteriorate the fabric. Instead, hang it to dry in the shade, where there is good air circulation.

Don’t use a dryer
A dryer can shrink your judogi and damage the fabric, significantly reducing its lifespan.

Never wring it out
Letting it drip dry naturally will prevent distortions in the fabric and seams.

How to Remove Tough Stains Like Blood or Sweat

Blood and sweat stains are common in intense training sessions, but you shouldn’t leave them on your judogi. To remove them:

Use an appropriate detergent or stain remover
Be sure to check the labels of the products you use and choose one suitable for your judogi’s fabric. If it’s made of pure cotton (100% cotton), you shouldn’t exceed 30°C (86°F) when washing.

Follow the stain remover instructions
Most of these products indicate the amount to use and the required action time. If the stain persists after the first attempt, repeat the process until it’s completely gone.

Additional Recommendations

We recommend having two judogis
If your judo training is intense, having at least two judogis will allow you to alternate between them. This will reduce wear and tear from frequent washing and prolong their durability.

Don’t use bleach or harsh detergents
Even for white judogis, it’s better to use a proper stain remover that respects the fabric. Bleach or harsh detergents can damage the judogi and speed up its deterioration.

Wash your belt and judogi separately
It’s important not to mix these items to avoid color bleeding. You can handwash the belt to prevent it from losing color and shrinking.

All cotton garments shrink in the wash
We recommend consulting your distributor or club coach for advice on the right size.

Conclusion

Caring for your judogi is not just a matter of hygiene; it’s a sign of respect for your martial art, your dojo, and your fellow practitioners. By following these washing and care tips, you’ll keep your uniform in excellent condition for a long time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: your development on the tatami.

Judo

September 12, 2024

Three Benefits of Learning Judo

Summer vacation is over, and we are back to our usual routine.
If you are considering a new activity to improve your physical fitness, we would like to introduce you to Judo.

Judo originated in Japan and has become one of the most popular martial arts in the world. (Fran Garrigos of Team Daedo won the bronze medal at this year’s Paris Olympics 2024!)

Here are three advantages of starting Judo:

1. A Sport Where Height and Build Do Not Matter

Judo is a sport where a smaller person can defeat a larger person. By mastering attacking and defensive techniques and performing them well, you can win or lose a match regardless of your size.

2. Mental and Physical Training

In addition to physical conditioning, Judo also teaches courtesy and respect. Judo emphasizes appreciating your opponent. Even as rivals, practitioners develop a spirit of sportsmanship and gratitude, which fosters personal growth.

3. Making Friends

Judo is a sport that relies on an opponent, making it a great way to meet and socialize with others. Training in Judo provides an opportunity to connect with people and creates a community outside of school or work.

What Do You Need to Start Judo?

Starting Judo is quite simple. All you need is a Judogi (uniform) and a belt, that’s it!
Judogi prices vary by manufacturer, but if you are new to Judo, Daedo’s JUDOGI for beginners (JU1108) is an excellent choice.

It is affordably priced for beginners and available in a wide range of sizes for both children and adults.

Why not explore a new world of learning through Judo?

Taekwondo

July 31, 2024

Barcelona Tests Gen3: Key for the Junior Taekwondo World Championship 2024

Last weekend, Barcelona became the epicenter of taekwondo as it hosted the first Daedo Taekwondo Open. This event, which brought together competitors from the sport, had the primary goal of showcasing the innovative PSS GEN3 scoring system by Daedo.

An Innovation in the Sport of Taekwondo

The new PSS GEN3 scoring system, developed by Daedo in collaboration with inventor Dr. Jin Song, promises to revolutionize the way taekwondo is measured and judged. This system incorporates several key innovations:

Punch Sensor: The Gen3 now includes a sensor in the punch that allows referees to know if the hit on the chest guard was precise, and thus confirm the point through joysticks.
Promoting Dynamic Taekwondo: The system is designed to reduce static taekwondo, where primarily front kicks are used, and reward those athletes who practice more dynamic taekwondo.
Improved Transmission: The Gen3 features a completely new transmission system, making the connection more stable, avoiding disconnections and other issues observed in previous versions.
Increased Foot Protector Coverage: The electronic foot protector now has a larger coverage area, reducing the occurrence of strikes that previously did not score due to the lack of sensors on the outer part of the foot.

Taekwondo match at the Daedo Open. Photograph by Amandine Lauriol

Verification and Evaluation by World Taekwondo

The global taekwondo federation, World Taekwondo, sent Philippe Bouedo as the Technical Delegate of the event to verify all aspects of the new PSS GEN3 system. Bouedo was present to conduct a thorough evaluation of the system to determine its viability for use in the upcoming Junior Taekwondo World Championship, to be held in Chuncheon, Korea, in October 2024.

A Memorable Event

The Daedo Taekwondo Open competitions were supervised by the CSB team, composed of Usman Dildar, Ali Sagirkaya, and Ioannis Mouroutsos. Among the distinguished attendees were Jesús Castellanos, president of the Royal Spanish Taekwondo Federation (RFET); José Antonio Solano Campelo, president of the Taekwondo Federation of the Region of Murcia; and José María Pujadas, secretary general of the RFET. Dr. Jin Song, the creator of Daedo’s PSS, was also present, underscoring the importance of the event.

The Open featured the participation of official referees from 18 different countries, under the direction of Paula Ramírez. Additionally, athletes from more than 10 different nations competed in this exciting event. For the Juniors, the categories of the Youth Olympic Games were applied, while for the Seniors, the Olympic categories were used.

Taekwondo Gen3 electonic glove. Photograph by Amandine Lauriol

Junior Category

Sunday was the turn of the seniors, who demonstrated their experience and talent in a series of intense matches. By the end of the day, the following competitors emerged victorious:

Women -49kg: WROBEL Michalina (POL), gold medal; ZACYIOVA Natalia (SVK), silver medal; HEREDIA CÓRDOBA Judith (ESP) and LÓPEZ RAMIREZ Leire (ESP), bronze medals.

Women -55kg: BENETTI Ines (FRA), gold medal; LILOVA Elena (BUL), silver medal; BLESA SILES Eva (ESP) and LLOPIS SÁNCHEZ Muriel (ESP), bronze medals.

Women -63kg: TORRENS QUERA Martina (ESP), gold medal; EL HARCHE KONING Nora (ESP), silver medal; SANZ FORES Ruth (ESP), bronze medal.

Women +63kg: OSSIN Laurenne Kimi (CIV), gold medal; VROEGH Nielle (NED), silver medal; BADIA YERPES Anna (ESP) and ERPELDING Camille (FRA), bronze medals.

Men -48kg: LEPAPE Andreas (FRA), gold medal; LLOPIS SÁNCHEZ Leo (ESP), silver medal; MONTALBAN MORENTE Juan (ESP) and AISA ALONSO Ivan (ESP), bronze medals.

Men -55kg: GUARDIOLA Eliot (FRA), gold medal; BENTEIB BENTAYEB Anwar (ESP), silver medal; COLLADOS PARDO Carlos (ESP) and DIMAYUGA MARTINEZ Mark (ESP), bronze medals.

Men -63kg: FERNANDEZ AYARZA Nicolas (ESP), gold medal; SIMEONOV Martin (BUL), silver medal; ROBLES LLOPIS Gabriel (ESP) and OROZCO GIL Sergio (ESP), bronze medals.

Men -73kg: LILOV Krassimir (BUL), gold medal; RUBIO DIAZ Erik (ESP), silver medal; IZARIK Daniel (SVK) and JURADO OLIVER Pau (ESP), bronze medals.

Men +73kg: LYSENKO SERRANO Ivan (ESP), gold medal; SÁNCHEZ GARCIA Juan Manuel (ESP), silver medal; GARCIA CARRERAS Hugo (ESP) and GUASCH GUTIERREZ Ramón (ESP), bronze medals.

Senior Category

On Sunday, it was the turn of the seniors, who demonstrated their experience and talent in a series of intense matches. By the end of the day, the following competitors emerged victorious:

Women -49kg: SERRANO RODRIGUEZ Alicia (ESP), gold medal; NOGUERA CHANZA Anira (ESP), silver medal; OUADI LEMRINI Ahlem (ESP), bronze medal.

Women -57kg: BONALS ANARTE Laura (ESP), gold medal; MERLOS ORDONEZ Judith (ESP), silver medal; TEMINA MONLEON Paula (ESP) and MUSIELLO Giulia (ITA), bronze medals.

Women -67kg: SECANELL CHARLES Elsa (ESP), gold medal; PORTILLO LAZARO Nerea (ESP), silver medal; MARTINEZ VILLARROYA Marina (ESP), bronze medal.

Women +67kg: SILVA RODRIGUEZ Nayala (ESP), gold medal.

Men -58kg: ALEX DE DIOS Jose (ESP), gold medal; EL NAMMRI Riad (MAR), silver medal; VIVES SAEZ Isaac (ESP), bronze medal.

Men -68kg: KHAMMERMAN Danil (UKR), gold medal; THOMAS Max (ESP), silver medal; BAUTISTA RODRIGO Raul (ESP) and MURILLO PALACIOS Jorge (ESP), bronze medals.

Men -80kg: AGUILAR CABALLERO Marcos (ESP), gold medal; MUSKEVITS Aleksandr (GER), silver medal; GARCIA MARTIN Jose Maria (ESP) and SOLER RECIO David (ESP), bronze medals.

Men +80kg: BENKHALLOUK DOUNANI Yousef (ESP), gold medal; GORDO MERINO Raul (ESP), silver medal; MARCOS MARTINEZ Aaron (ESP), bronze medals.

Conclusion

The first Daedo Taekwondo Open was not only a successful sporting event but also a milestone in the evolution of taekwondo. With the launch of the PSS GEN3, Daedo has marked a turning point in scoring technology for the sport. The taekwondo community eagerly anticipates how this innovation will continue to enhance the experience for both competitors and spectators in the years to come.

The global taekwondo community now looks forward with great anticipation, knowing that the decision World Taekwondo will make in the coming months could define the competition standard for a new generation of athletes. The Gen3 is poised to be a fundamental tool in this process, promising to elevate the fairness and excitement of taekwondo to new heights.

Taekwondo Gen3 electronic chest protectors. Photograph by Amandine Lauriol

Daedo International

May 24, 2024

Daedo International and European Taekwondo Union Renew Sponsorship Contract for 2025-2028

Belgrade, May 10, 2024 – Daedo International, the leading provider of Taekwondo equipment, is proud to announce the renewal of its sponsorship contract with the European Taekwondo Union (ETU) for the period 2025-2028. The contract signing ceremony took place today at the Metropol Hotel in Belgrade, Serbia, with Daedo’s Director Sam Park and ETU Secretary General Antonio Barbarino officiating the event.

Commitment to Innovation and Excellence

The renewed partnership will see the introduction of Daedo’s third-generation Protector Scoring System (PSS Gen3) in 2024. This advanced system includes a punch sensor and a much more reliable wireless connection, aiming to be used in 100% of championships across Europe and globally. These enhancements underscore Daedo’s commitment to enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of Taekwondo competitions.

Sam Park, Director of Daedo International, commented, “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with the ETU. Despite the challenges we’ve faced with the Gen2 system and not being selected as the Olympic PSS provider, these obstacles have only motivated us to work harder. The Gen3 PSS system will be years ahead in development, ensuring the consistency and reliability of results in Taekwondo, making it a fair sport. We accept all criticism constructively to help our system improve because it’s not about the technology; it’s about the sport.”

A Trust-Based Relationship

Daedo’s longstanding relationship with the ETU has been built on mutual trust and a shared vision for the future of Taekwondo. The ETU’s decision to continue this partnership into the next Olympic cycle reflects the unwavering support Daedo has provided over the years. Key factors in this decision included the successful implementation of the On-Venue Results (OVR) system and Daedo’s consistent innovation in sports technology.

Mr. Chuen Wook Park, CEO of Daedo, expressed his enthusiasm about the renewed collaboration, stating, “Our support for President Sakis Pragalos and the ETU is unconditional. We are excited to see how Taekwondo develops over the next four years, and we remain committed to contributing to its growth and success.”

Expanding the Horizons of Taekwondo

Looking forward, the renewed agreement will also see the introduction of Virtual Taekwondo, an augmented reality (AR) system exclusively distributed by Daedo in Europe. This innovative technology aims to develop the eSports aspect of Taekwondo, integrating it into the future of the sport.

“Supporting the ETU has always been about making Taekwondo grow,” added Sam Park. “With the introduction of Virtual Taekwondo, we are excited to explore new dimensions of the sport and engage a broader audience.”

Supporting Taekwondo Worldwide

In addition to its collaboration with the ETU, Daedo continues to sponsor national Taekwondo federations in Spain, Italy, France, Great Britain, Turkey, and many other countries worldwide. This extensive support network highlights Daedo’s dedication to fostering Taekwondo at all levels, from grassroots to elite competition.

Remarks from ETU Leadership

ETU President Sakis Pragalos expressed his gratitude and confidence in the renewed partnership, stating, “Thank you so much to Daedo for their unwavering support. The trust between ETU and Daedo has been the main factor for this renewal. We look forward to continuing our work together to advance Taekwondo in Europe.”

Contact Information

For more information, please contact:

Daedo International

Email: info@daedo.com
Website: www.daedo.com

European Taekwondo Union

Email: info@europeantaekwondounion.com
Website: www.europeantaekwondounion.com

Karate

January 23, 2024

The world champion in kata, Sandra Sánchez, will receive the MARCA Legend Award

The world champion in kata, Sandra Sánchez, will receive the MARCA Legend Award this Wednesday, January 24, at the Victoria Theater in Talavera de la Reina

The MARCA newspaper will recognize the professional career of the Olympic champion, Gold Medalist in Tokyo 2020, two-time world champion in 2018 and 2021, and seven-time European champion. She is also the only karateka in history to achieve the triple crown in the same year (Olympics, World Championship, and European Championship) in 2021.

Starting this Wednesday, January 24, at 6:00 PM, Sandra Sánchez will become the first Martial Arts athlete and the eighth female athlete to receive the MARCA Legend Award. This recognition glorifies the hard work done by the karateka, collecting 60 consecutive medals and being on the podium for seven years straight.

Sandra Sanchez celebrates Olympic gold in karate at Tokyo 2020

More than 30 years of practicing karate

Sandra started her journey at the age of four, begging her parents to unenroll her from dance classes to be with her brother. This was how she discovered a way to control her temperament and channel her energy on the tatami. Karate meant much more than a simple martial art to her at a very young age.

She faced various obstacles along the way, and for years, Spain did not offer her the opportunity to develop her professional career. Therefore, she had to make the decision to first emigrate to Australia and then to Dubai. It was at the latter place where a club finally granted her the opportunity that had previously been denied. At the age of 32, she won her first title at the Spanish Championship, marking the beginning of her sports career.

Sandra Sanchez celebrates Olympic gold in karate at Tokyo 2020

“Sandra is nothing without karate, and karate is nothing without Sandra”

With emotion, Sandra bid farewell to competitions at the World Games in 2022. At the age of 40, she achieved her goal, but her commitment to karate goes beyond competitions – “Sandra is nothing without karate, and karateis nothing without Sandra.” In 2023, she started her new project, Club Chikara, with the collaboration of Jesús del Moral, her coach, and husband, with the purpose of sharing her karate knowledge worldwide.

Over the years, Daedo has witnessed many of her achievements and merits. For this reason, Chuen Wook Park and Sam Park, representatives of Daedo, will attend the MARCA event to celebrate and support this karate legend, embodying the spirit of overcoming challenges in her golden age.

Sandra Sánchez and Jesús del Moral sharing the progress of the Chikara club on Instagram.

“Don’t tire of trying, and you will turn the impossible into a reality” – Sandra Sánchez’s motto reflecting her spirit of overcoming challenges.

Taekwondo

January 8, 2024

Exciting News: Joël van der Weide Joins Daedo’s Team!

We kick off 2024 with enthusiasm as we welcome Joël van der Weide, a Dutch Poomsae Taekwondo athlete, to #teamdaedo. With his addition, we now have a total of 24 sponsored athletes. We are excited to continue strengthening our team and supporting martial arts athletes on their path to success.

Joël started practicing Taekwondo at the young age of six, and by nine, he was already competing in international events. His dedication to the discipline led him to build an outstanding 18-year career as a taekwondo specialist in Poomsae. Now, at 24 years old, he has achieved the second position in the World Taekwondo ranking.

Regarding his academic journey, he specialized in a Vocational Education and Training (Mbo) program in Sports and Exercise. Furthermore, he continued his Higher Professional Education (Hbo) studies in the Sports Science program. Thanks to his academic background and extensive professional career in Taekwondo, he can offer seminars and online classes under his name.

Joël van der Weide, the Dutch Poomsae Taekwondo athlete, joins the team, marking a historic moment as the first Poomsae specialist in Daedo's roster.

Joël van der Weide joins the Daedo team.

On December 18, 2023, Joël had the opportunity to visit Barcelona and participate in a photoshoot with other Taekwondo masters, Master Jeong Cheol Kim and Laura Kim. Besides serving as a model representing his discipline, the photoshoot marked a special occasion.

During the session, Mr. Park, CEO of Daedo, personally welcomed the future member of #teamdaedo. This meeting strengthens the beginning of a significant collaboration, as Joël is the first Poomsae Taekwondo specialist to join our team.

The addition of the Dutch athlete represents a step forward in our mission to support and highlight exceptional athletes in martial arts, especially Judo, Karate, and Taekwondo. We look forward to witnessing the achievements and positive impact that his experience and dedication will bring to #teamdaedo. Welcome to the team, Joël!

Joël van der Weide posing as a taekwondo athlete model for Daedo’s photo shoot.

News

November 24, 2023

Daedo celebrates its 40th anniversary with a gala in Barcelona

On July 8th, Daedo, the renowned international martial arts equipment company specializing in Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, celebrated its 40th anniversary at the Hotel Porta Fira in Barcelona. The gala was attended by invited masters who have been customers since 1983-1990, representatives of Karate, Taekwondo, and Judo federations, as well as distributors from more than 35 countries across 5 continents. Elite athletes sponsored by the company also graced the event.

Among the distinguished guests were Mr. Antonio Moreno, president of the Royal Spanish Karate Federation; Mr. Jesus Castellanos, president of the Royal Spanish Taekwondo Federation; Mr. Gonzalo Gonzalez of the Royal Spanish Judo Federation; and Mr. Kim Young Ki, president of the All Spain Korean Association. Notably, approximately 80 masters from all over Spain joined the celebration in Barcelona.

Daedo’s trajectory began in 1983, when Mr. Chuen Wook Park founded the company in Barcelona, Spain. Within four years, Daedo became the official sponsor of the 8th World Taekwondo Championships. Since then, Daedo has continued to sponsor numerous World Championships as well as Taekwondo and Karate while actively participating in the Olympic Games.

The company’s presence was prominent in emblematic Olympic events such as Barcelona 1992, Athens 2004, Beijing 2008, and later as a supplier of electronic bibs (PSS) for the London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Daedo played a crucial role in the advancement of Taekwondo as an Olympic sport, particularly through the development of the electronic competition system.

Daedo experienced significant growth in the field of Karate from 2001 to 2020, becoming a sponsor for several Karate World Championships. Currently, the company is the Official Sponsor of the three Federations: Real Federación Española de Karate, Taekwondo, and Judo, providing uniforms and protections for the National Team athletes.

The company also sponsors Spanish elite athletes such as Sandra Sanchez, Damián Quintero, Maria Torres, Nikoloz Sherazadishvili, Francisco Garrigós, Laura Martinez, Alberto Gaitero, Estrella López, Daniel Quesada, Jone Magdaleno and Cecilia Castro.

Daedo’s journey has been challenging, and its CEO, Mr. Chuen Wook Park, acknowledges that the major support from Taekwondo, Karate, and Judo masters and Federations has significantly contributed to Daedo’s growth. During the gala, Mr. Park personally presented Plaques of Appreciation to several masters and Federations as a token of his eternal gratitude.

“Tonight’s gala is NOT to celebrate today’s DAEDO success, but to express our appreciation to you.” Mr. Chuen Wook Park emphasized in his welcoming speech.

Taekwondo

March 6, 2023

Taekwondo: Promoting Peace and Humanitarianism through Sport

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that has gained popularity worldwide for its unique blend of physical and mental discipline. While the sport is often associated with self-defense and competition, its underlying principles of respect, self-control, and harmony have contributed to its role in promoting world peace. The Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation (THF), in particular, has taken on a significant role in using the sport to further peace and humanitarian causes.

The THF is a non-profit organization established by the World Taekwondo (WT) in 2016 with the aim of promoting peace, social development, and youth empowerment through Taekwondo. The foundation has worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for refugees and disadvantaged communities to learn and practice Taekwondo, in order to foster physical fitness, mental health, and social cohesion.

One of the most notable initiatives of the THF has been its Hope and Dreams Sport Festival, which are held in cooperation with the WT and the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC). The sport festival bring together young taekwondo athletes from around the world, with a particular emphasis on those from underprivileged backgrounds, to compete in a spirit of fair play, friendship, and mutual respect. The most recent edition of the Hope and Dreams sport festival was held in Amman, Jordan, on the 27th of February 2023, and saw over 300 young refugee athletes.

The Hope and Dreams Championships serve as a platform for the THF to promote its values of peace and humanitarianism. By bringing together young athletes from diverse backgrounds, the championships help to break down barriers and promote understanding between cultures. Additionally, the event provides an opportunity for the THF to showcase its other programs, such as its Taekwondo coaching and education initiatives for refugees and vulnerable youth.

In 2023, the World Taekwondo (WT) celebrated its 50th anniversary, and President Cho Jung-won marked the occasion with a New Year’s address. He declared, “If the efforts of the past 50 years were for the survival and growth of Taekwondo, the next 50 years will be used to change the world and realize the value of Taekwondo as a tool to spread peace and hope.”

The WT has been steadfast in its commitment to promoting peace and humanity, and this focus has garnered global attention. With 212 member countries, including a refugee team, the WT has made Taekwondo the most globalized sport, sending a message that goes beyond sports to resonate with society at large.

Through its various programs and initiatives, the THF has shown that Taekwondo can be a powerful tool for promoting peace and social development. The organization’s commitment to using the sport to support vulnerable communities and promote humanitarianism is a testament to the underlying values of Taekwondo. As the THF and other organizations continue to leverage the power of Taekwondo for social good, we can hope to see a more peaceful and inclusive world in the future.