Patterns

Patterns, or 'forms', are sequences of techniques performed in a set order. They represent combat with imaginary multiple attacks from different directions.

A pattern is essentially a training aid, allowing usage of potentially dangerous techniques in a totally safe environment.

To the novice, pattern training is a meaningless series of techniques, and they are so busy remembering the order of moves that they are totally preoccupied. Only once the pattern has been thoroughly learned can the student introduce deeper understanding for the movements.

When practising patterns, it is important to stay calm and focus the mind. The pattern will start and finish on the same spot, and the technical accuracy will be reflected by the deviation from this spot at the finish of the pattern.

The Various Patterns

There are many patterns, but initially we will just concentrate on the set Taegeuk patterns, of which they are 8.

Images of the Taegeuks

Use these links to look at the Taegeuks in a illustrative form. They are really only useful if you already know the pattern a little, as some of the moves are either quite complex, or not shown very well. If in doubt ask your instructor.

All images on the links below are approx. between 40-70kb.

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