The Best Books to learn Taekwondo

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that is based on kicking and striking your opponent. It is popular globally and has gyms all round the world. These days, many Taekwondo practitioners will train by using online material such as Youtube videos. Whilst this method definitely works, it should also be noted that books are equally as important to your learning. From technique methods to the history of the martial art, the guide below will put you at ease if you’re wondering about what book to learn from.

Thankfully here at Budodragon, we love TKD so don’t worry, we have you covered. Whether you’re on the train looking for something to read, or for whatever reason you can’t train at the gym and want to learn visually, this book selection should have you covered.

The Encyclopedia of Taekwon-Do Patterns by Stuart Anslow

Stuart Anslow is a TKD black belt and knows his stuff. His book does what it says, and is based on learning the patterns that form the base of your Taekwondo. Don’t worry, this isn’t just pure writing…it has over 1,600 photographs crammed into the book. With that said, in terms of pictures it really is a genuine encyclopedia. Most people find it easier to learn by looking at images rather than by reading words. So, if that sounds like you then this book may be something to consider.

Taekwondo Basics by Scott Shaw

This book is particularly useful for beginners who are starting out. Of course, solid fundamentals are something that even advanced practitioners should keep an eye on. With that said, if you’re obsessed with TKD then this is still relevant. However, in reality it’s still aimed towards newbies of the martial art. This is very handy in breaking down how TKD classes run, what to expect, basic movements and other issues that newcomers face. If you’re feeling anxious about starting the art, then this book may be a good starting point.

Ara’s Rocky Road to White Belt by Jeffrey Nodelman

If you’re an adult, then please skip this review as this book is intended for kids. Parents, read on. The idea of this book is to get kids to learn confidence through the art of Taekwondo. It is loosely based around Taekwondo and is aimed for younger children who are training. You can expect the 5 tenet to be featured in the form of various themes and there’s actually quite a few of this book released. Remember, for kids training is arguably more of a mental battle compared to a physical one, which is where this book excels.

Kukkiwon Taekwondo Textbook by Kukkiwon

This book is considered something of a holy grail when it comes to Taekwondo books. Originally written in Korean, it has also been conveniently translated into English too. This book literally has it all, and in great detail too. Not only does it show the form and technique of stances and patterns, it also looks into the history and philosophy of TKD. For those looking at an umbrella approach to learning about everything involving TKD, this book is well worth a read. Although it may cost more than most on this list, the price is also justified as it writes about just about everything to do with Taekwondo.

A Killing Art by Alex Gillis

If you’re wanting to know about the history of Taekwondo and the gory details, then this book does a fantastic job in explaining everything. Sometimes, historical recounts can glamorize certain aspects…but not here. From the cults to tangles with geisha’s, this book pulls no punches and the title hints at this. This book won’t talk about techniques or particular moves, but is instead intended for history buffs who love the legacy of Taekwondo.

Taekwondo: Complete ITF Patterns by Marc Tedeschi

As the title says, this book has all of the official International Taekwondo Federation patterns listed under one roof. This is a truly massive book, with over 3000 photos, diagrams, close-ups, and precise breakdowns. In short, if you buy this book then you probably won’t need to buy anything again when it comes to learning the patterns. The reviews speak for themselves on this one, it is gold dust.

Taekwondo Defense Against Weapons by Bok Man Kim

Originally published in 1979, this is an updated version of the book that still applies to modern-day life today. It has references to Silat and is something a little different compared to most forms of TKD that take a hand-to-hand combat approach. Here, Bok Man Kim mixes things up and applies TKD to fighting with weapons. If you’re feeling like going out of your comfort zone and learning something a bit unusual, then this book may be suited to you.

Traditional Taekwondo by Doug Cook

Returning to the philosophical origins of Taekwondo, Doug Cook uses his book to outline the beginnings of the art. This book is also big on the self-defense aspect of TKD. Cook is quick to remind readers that TKD was originally intended for self defense and it has over 3200 methods to defend yourself. With this said, there’s enough here to keep you entertained, from a technique and learning point of view as well as through learning the history.

Tae Kwon Do by Yeon Hee Park

This book takes quite a spiritual stance whilst literally teaching you how to train Taekwondo. In brief, Yeon Hee Park outlines that TKD is about inner growth and however the individual chooses to interpret the art. With this said, the book can get quite heavy at times and borders on being profound. However, this is ultimately what martial arts are about…physical and mental growth. Bearing this in mind, this book is a good read for practitioners of all levels.

Taekwondo Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior by Doug Cook

One of Taekwondo’s biggest writers Doug Cook returns. This book is about the traditions of TKD and asks and answers some important questions on the subject. These feature the meaning of being a black belt and the difference between doing sports TKD and training self-defense TKD. Featuring the tenets, this book has been well researched and should give you a clear outline as to how to behave as a Taekwondo practitioner as well as other life lessons.