What is a pattern?
A set of fundamental movements, mainly defence and attack, set in a logical sequence against one or more imaginary opponents. The number of movements and the diagrammatic symbol of each pattern symbolises either heroic figures in Korean history or instances relating to historical events.
Why do we perform patterns?
To learn sparring techniques, stances, correct facing, improve facing, improve posture, focus movements, body shifting, breath control, muscle toning, learn to relax and tense muscles at the correct time and practice other techniques that are not possible in other areas of training.
Why do we learn the interpretations of patterns?
Pattern interpretations are derived from people and events in Korean history and show one or more of the tenets to give us inspiration.
Why are there 24 patterns?
The reason there are 24 patterns in Tae Kwon-Do is because the founder, Major General Choi Hong Hi, compared the life of a man with a day in the life of the Earth, and believed that some 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, maybe it will 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, one day or all of my life.”
Execution of patterns
- Patterns should begin and end on the same spot. This will indicate the performer’s accuracy
- Correct posture and facing must be maintained at all times
- Muscles of the body should be tensed or relaxed at the appropriate moments in the exercise
- The exercise 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
