Taekwondo is a Korean martial art. Taekwondo is loosely translated as .the way of the foot and fist. but some translate it as, .the art of kicking and punching., Taekwondo's popularity is a result of evolution of martial arts. Taekwondo was developed during the 1940.s and 1950.s by various martial artists by incorporating elements of Karate and Chinese Martial Arts with indigenous Korean martial arts. It combines combat techniques, self-defence, sport, exercise, meditation and philosophy. Modern Taekwondo tends to emphasize control and self-defence. The art in general emphasizes kicks thrown from a mobile stance, employing the leg's greater reach and power. Taekwondo training generally includes a system of blocks, kicks, punches, and open-handed strikes and may also include various take-downs or sweeps, throws, and joint locks. Taekwondo was incorporated into the Asian Games in 1986. It became a full medal sport at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia.