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Forms (Poomse)
From the earliest time of karate practice,
basic and advanced techniques were developed by repetitions of offensive and defensive
movements because there was no other way of practicing on an actual opponent without
injury. Thus, the training form became a vital and mysterious part of Taekwondo learning.
A properly executed form trains the muscle reflexes for speed, balance, power and
smoothness of execution. Stable balance, eye contact with an imaginary opponent, a
rhythmic flow of motion and power are all things judges look for.
Each belt rank in Taekwondo requires the learning of a new form. The forms become progressively more complex and difficult to perform as one advances through the ranks. When learning a form for the purpose of belt promotion, it is recommended that it be practiced at least 300 times before attempting to test. Almost all forms finish in the same spot at which they began. While the length of the step will vary by individual, the angle of each step must be in the exact manner. Each movement in the form serves the function of either on offensive or a defensive technique against an imaginary assailant. The student should envision a target and concentrate on it during each step. While there is a continuous flow to well-executed form, there is also a slight pause at each stance. This permits the execution of each technique with the foundation of a proper balance. Each technique should be distinct and separate while maintaining a rhythm from beginning to end. With the advanced student, timing improves and each pause between stances becomes more and more subtle. Breath control helps the student to conserve muscle energy and enables them to perform several forms with maximum power and minimum exertion. Forceful exhalations on each technique (block or strike) creates a more powerful blow. Taking a breath between steps or holding breath will lead to rapid exhaustion. Each form contains two or more "Ki-haps' - the Korean word for yell. The actual yell varies with each individual. The important thing to remember is the forceful expulsion of air along with the contraction of the abdominal muscles. Copyright 1999 Gautreaux's Martial Arts Center Inc.This page was last updated on 09/05/99.
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