Para taekwondo was introduced as a full member of the International Paralympic Committee in 2015. The World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), the sport’s governing body, began developing the Kyorugi (sparring) discipline for Para athletes in 2005. Since 2013, Poomsae (martial art forms) is being developed as a competition format for athletes of all impairments.

Para taekwondo will be contested at the Paralympics for the first time at the Tokyo 2020. At the Paralympic Games, Para athletes will compete in the Kyorugi discipline, which is open to participants with upper limb deficiencies or amputations.

As of June 2015, 97 Para athletes from 23 countries and three regions have taken part in three world ranking competitions, with expectations for the number of participants to rise steadily in the lead up to Para taekwondo’s Paralympic debut.

For more information on Para taekwondo visit the World Taekwondo Federation.

Para taekwondo is not currently delivered widely in New Zealand, but register your interest now and we will help you to find a Para sport for you in your local area!

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