The Different Movement Principles Of Taekwondo Poomsae

Each Poomsae or movement order of Taekwondo Poomsae is predetermined; therefore, it is essential that you practice accordingly. This predetermined movement line is known as the Poomsae Seon. All forms in the Poomsae have a beginning and an end manifested in defined forms and within a single place. To learn the style and order, it is essential you have an understanding of the principles. The three principles of Poomsae are:

1. Poomsae must present with a degree of power and beauty.

2. The rhythm in Poomsae is derived from a strength and softness of the force behind the movement.

3. The technique of Poomsae is created using a slowness and rapidness of movement achieved with through contraction and expansion of the physical body.

Below is a detailed explanation of the principles to guide further and deeper understanding:

1. All of the Poomsae movements are divided into two main categories, the preparation for a movement and the movement itself. To prepare for a movement, you will rotate the trunk of your body, move your feet and prepare to either strike or block. This stage requires relaxation of the body with a movement of feet to a transitional stance while chambering arms or legs. The main movement involves a block or punch dependent on whether you are striking or kicking. Upon impact, it is necessary to focus bodily force on the target and snap the foot or hand maximising the movement power.

2. All movements require the person to maximize the rotation of the waist and snapping motion of the strike. In Poomsae, this power can be increased by rotating the waist when blocking, punching or striking. Always avoid bending the trunk forward or sideways keeping yourself straight. This is important as bending reduces power.

3. The preparation of a movement requires a sense of relaxation in the shoulders and coiling of the trunk to the side. When performing the primary or main technique, it is necessary to focus all force at the target being attacked at the moment of impact. This is an important principle to remember when considering power and rhythm.

4. Preparation of movement and completing the main movement should be a rhythmic movement with all aspects linked seamlessly. This result is attained by avoiding any pausing when completing a technique.

5. Blocking, kicking and punching techniques requires the use of both arms. When preparing for a movement, it is necessary to stretch one arm toward the target while preparing the other arm to block or punch.

6. When engaging in Poomsae always face the target and align your body correctly.

7. Perform each technique stance correctly adjusting the width and length according to your height. The stance is formed by measuring one step distance from yourself and the target. It is important to pay attention to the bending in the knees.

8. Always bend the knee during kicking and kick as high as possible before recovering balance.