| Pattern Performance Tips |
Perform movements with precision and accuracy.
Begin and end each pattern at exactly the same spot on the floor (not true for all patterns). This indicates the proper performance of all stances and movements.
Perform all movements at the speeds and rhythms required by the pattern being performed.
Correct posture and facing must be maintained at all times.
Head/eyes should turn to face opponent before body turns.
Concentration should be reflected in the face and eyes.
Do not "wind" techniques. "Winding" is a term used to describe the motion of raising the rear heel after a step forward and then dropping it as you execute a hand technique, such as when performing a forward stepping reverse punch. The correct motion is to hold the punch until the front foot touches the floor and then fire it. This insures hand-foot timing (foot touches, punch fires, punch reaches target as weight is shifted to the foot, thus adding mass of body to the punch. When "winding" front foot touches, weight is shifted, rear heel lifts, and then heel drops as the punch is fired. Some think this looks good when performing patterns, but it is not Taekwondo and it does not increase power. We perform as we practice. If you practice patterns this way, when under stress your body will perform this way.
Tense or relax muscles at proper points within the pattern. Move like a wave that gracefully moves toward shore and then explodes onto the beach.
Perform the pattern rhythmically, smoothly and without stiffness.
Perform all movements with rapid facing and correct posture.
Do not just "walk" through the pattern, perform as if you were Hwa-rang warrior in mortal combat.
Perform techniques with power and control.
Show spirit and positive attitude.
Use correct foot/hand shape.
Use wide stances with proper foot placement.
Do not hold breath. Use breathing that is in rhythmic with each movement.
Kiai at proper points.
Accelerate or decelerate movements at the proper points.
Know the purpose of each movement.
Know the distinctive features of pattern.
Know the meaning of each pattern.
Perform each movement with realism.
Perfect each pattern before moving to the next.
Sting once said about music. "Great music's as much about the space between the notes as it is about the notes themselves." In Taekwondo: a great pattern is as much about the space between the movements as it is about the movements themselves.
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