Pattern Usefulness

Some movements use two or more blocks in succession with no counter between them, or use blocks that have no counter, or add a technique after a block or blocks as a finishing technique even though there were no preceding attacks to weaken the opponent. To overcome these limitations, think of the preparatory movement of the block as being the block, and the block itself as being a strike. Since the preparatory movement is usually toward you, it may be thought of as a close range block.

Some movements may work, but only after years of practice. Concentrate your training on perfecting useful techniques instead of spending time on perfecting flashy, useless techniques.

Use movements that defend specifically against Taekwondo techniques as opposed to "street" techniques. It is unlikely that you would face another martial artist in a self-defense situation. Consider the probability of a particular attack actually happening. If a movement relies on two or three people attacking, each with specific attacks, this will probably never happen in real life. However, if a movement is in response to a wrist grab or a punch, then it will be more likely to occur.