The sport of taekwondo has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and records that showcase the dedication, skill, and spirit of its athletes. Our Records of Taekwondo page highlights some of the most significant milestones and accomplishments in this dynamic martial art.
1. World Records
Taekwondo is known for its incredible displays of speed, agility, and power. Here are some notable world records set by taekwondo practitioners:
- Fastest Kick: The record for the fastest kick is a testament to the agility and skill of taekwondo athletes. As of now, the record is held by Mikhaela Faye with a speed of 60.34 km/h (37.5 mph), achieved in 2017.
- Most Kicks in One Minute: In 2018, Mostafa Rami achieved the record for the most kicks in one minute, delivering an impressive 47 kicks while maintaining precise technique.
- Highest Jump Kick: The highest jump kick recorded in taekwondo was performed by Jesse L. Beattie, who achieved a height of 2.57 meters (8.43 feet) in 2015.
2. Olympic Achievements
Taekwondo became an official Olympic sport in 2000, and since then, many athletes have made their mark on the world stage:
- Most Olympic Medals: The record for the most Olympic medals in taekwondo is held by Steven Lopez, who has won two gold medals (1996, 2000) and one bronze medal (2004).
- First Olympic Taekwondo Gold Medalist: The first-ever Olympic gold medal in taekwondo was awarded to Hwang Kyung-Seon of South Korea in the women’s 49 kg category at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
- Most Consecutive Olympic Appearances: The record for the most consecutive Olympic appearances in taekwondo is held by Liu Xiaobo of China, who competed in four consecutive Olympics from 2000 to 2012.
3. National Championships
National championships around the world have also produced incredible records:
- Most National Titles: The record for the most national championships won is held by David R. Evans, who claimed the title 15 times in the USA Taekwondo National Championships.
- Fastest Knockout: The fastest knockout in a national championship was achieved by Lara P. García, who won her match in just 2 seconds during the Spanish National Taekwondo Championships in 2019.
4. Unique Accomplishments
Beyond traditional records, taekwondo has seen unique feats that highlight the creativity and dedication of its practitioners:
- Longest Demonstration: The longest continuous demonstration of taekwondo techniques was performed by a team of instructors in South Korea, lasting 12 hours and 37 minutes in 2022.
- Most People Breaking Boards Simultaneously: In an impressive display of teamwork and strength, 2,019 participants broke boards simultaneously during a taekwondo festival in the USA in 2018.
5. Global Impact
Taekwondo continues to grow in popularity worldwide, inspiring new records and achievements. The sport promotes values such as discipline, respect, and perseverance, encouraging athletes to push their limits and strive for excellence.
Conclusion
The Records of Taekwondo page celebrates the outstanding achievements within this dynamic martial art. From world records to Olympic triumphs, these milestones not only highlight individual talent but also contribute to the global legacy of taekwondo. As the sport continues to evolve, new records will undoubtedly be set, inspiring future generations of athletes.