Introduction To Patterns

Patterns form a very important aspect of taekwondo training. In taekwondo, Poomses is another word for patterns or forms in WTF. A set pattern is composed of a series of defensive and attacking movements performed by students on their imaginary opponents. Through the practice of patterns, students are able to learn the various techniques in taekwondo and how to apply them. Patterns have a variety of roles in taekwondo which are all essential to the taekwondo student.

What Are Some Of The Patterns Used In W.T.F?

W.T.F uses Poomsaes as patterns. Poomsaes originally came from a Chinese oracle known as I Ching. The I Ching consists of 64 hexagrams. The following are some of the Poomsaes in W.T.F and their meanings:

1. Taegeuk 1 (II Jang)

This is the beginning of all Poomsaes and should be performed with the greatness of heaven.

2. Taegeuk 2 (Ee Jang)

This pattern represents the lake. Every lake has its own mysteries and treasures. The movements in these patterns should be performed with the students knowing that every man has their limitations. However, these limitations can easily be overcome. Once a person overcomes their limitations, they can enjoy that joyous feeling that they are in control of their own future.

3. Taegeuk 3 (Sam Jang)

This pattern symbolizes fire. This is because fire has plenty of energy. Since time immemorial, fire has had a great impact on man by helping him to cook and to scare away wild animals. However, it has also brought with it catastrophes. This pattern should therefore be performed following a certain rhythm with few outbursts of energy.

4. Taegeuk 4 (Sah Jang)

This pattern symbolizes thunder. The earth absorbs thunder that comes from the sky. Thunder, as we all know, is a very powerful force of nature and therefore, this pattern should be performed with this in mind.

5. Taegeuk 5 (Oh Jang)

This form represents the wind. The wind is also another powerful force of nature and can sometimes be distrustful. The wind has been known to become so furious that it destroys everything in its path while at other times it has been known to be gentle. This form should be performed with this in mind. The students have to know how to be gentle and how to cause mass destruction with just a single movement.

6. Taegeuk 6 (Yook Jang)

This form represents water; yet another powerful force of nature. Water has been known to move mountains. The movements in this form should be performed like water does. At one time water stands still while at other times it thrives like a river.

7. Taegeuk 7 (Chil Jang)

This form represents the mountain. Regardless of the size, mountains will always look majestic. Thus when students perform the movements in this form, they should keep in mind that the movements have to be majestic and need to be praised.

8. Taegeuk 8 (Pal Jang)

This form represents the earth. Yin is the trigram that is associated with this form. There is still some light even in darkness. Students performing this movements should know that it is the last of the Taegeuk.

9. Poomsae Koryo

The name Koryo, represents an old Korean dynasty. The people of the Korean dynasty defeated the Mongolians during the Koryo period. The spirit of the Koryo people is reflected in the maneuvers associated with the Poomse Koryo. The movements in this form should reflect the strength and the energy that was used to control the Mongols.

10. Poomsae Keumgang

Keumgang means diamond. The movements in this form should be as beautiful as the diamond and the Korean mountain (Keumgang-San).

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