Tae Kwon Do Patterns

PATTERNS

Various fundamental movements most of which represent either attack or defence techniques, set to a fixed and logical sequence against an imaginary opponent.

We practise patterens to improve our Tae Kwon Do techniques, to develop sparring techniques, to improve flexibility of movement, master body-shifting, develop muscles, balance and breath control. They also enable us to acquire techniques, which cannot be obtained from other forms of training.

The reason for there being 24 patterns in TAE KWON-DO is because the founder Major General Choi Hong Hi, compared the life of man with a day in the life of the earth and believed that people should strive to bequeath a good spiritual legacy to coming generations and in doing so gain immortality. Therefore, if we can leave something behind for the welfare of mankind, it may be the most important thing to happen in our lives, as the founder says: "Here I leave Tae Kwon Do for mankind as a trace of a man of the late 20th Century. The 24 patterns represent 24 hours, one day or all of my life."

Interpretations of Pattterns.

The name of the pattern, the number of movements, and the diagrammatic symbol of each pattern symbolises heroic figures in Korean history or instances relating to historical events.

Interpeatations of Patterns are learnt so that you can draw some inspiration and guidance from the examples given of the tenets of Tae Kwon-Do.

The Theory of Power

Reaction Force – Pulling the opposite arm back in co-ordination with the strike creates a reaction force.

Concentration – Applying impact force onto the smallest target area

Equilibrium – Use of reaction arm for dynamic stability to keep the body balanced

Breath Control – Tense abdomen to breathe out on impact. See why we Kihap (below)

Mass – Use hip twist and knee spring to increase body weight

Speed – The most essential factor for power, however all the other factors contribute to speed.

 

The Kihap

Correct breathe control will not only improve ones stamina and speed, but will also focus the power of a technique.Correct breathing in Tae Kwon Do is controlled by the diaphragm. A sharp exhaling breathe during movement, with sudden stop on impact of the technique tenses the abdomen and maximizes power and effort of the delivery. The breathing technique in Tae Kwon Do is called a Kihap or shout. Although it is called a shout be careful not to use the vocal chords instead of the diaphragm or the benefits will be lost.

Hints and Tips

The pattern should begin and end on the same spot. This indicates a performances accuracy

Muscles should be tensed and relaxed at the correct times

Always move the head first to clearly see your attacker

Correct posture and facing must be maintained at all times

Muscles of the body should be performed in a rhythmic movement with absence of stiffness

Each pattern should be accelerated or decelerated according to instructions

Each pattern should be perfected before moving on to the next

Students should know the purpose of each movement

Students should perform each movement with realism



Click to like this page