Stages of Patterns

Patterns are a major part of Taekwondo training. We learn new one at each belt level, practice then daily, perform them at tests, compete with them at tournaments, and for some hate every minute of it; considering it a required waste of time. The problem is that those who dislike patterns, and also most other students, only practice the elementary stage of pattern learning and never experience the true purpose of pattern training.

Patterns are a constant in Taekwondo. By being constant, they transmit the history of Taekwondo through the decades without changing. However, to apply the techniques used in patterns to our daily lives, we must also practice them in relation to the threats we face in today's society. Patterns have much to offer Taekwondo students if they understand and train at the other stages of pattern training.

There are four stages of pattern training: