Poomsae

Poomsae (patterns) is an important part of Taekwondo. The basic techniques are learnt in class regardless of grade. But each technique and equally each pattern is an indication of the level of skill required for that grade.
The first pattern at Tan'Gun Taekwondo is a very traditional Taekwondo pattern, and has been forgotten by many WTF (World Taekwondo Federation) styles, and even by the WTF itself. Probably because it bears its roots in the Japanese art of  Karate, and to drop this pattern would in many ways disassociate from a painful past. That said however, it is still an essential part of the students progress and an excellent foundation for all forthcoming patterns.

The Tae Geuk Poomsae take their name from selected Trigrams (Three Lines) in the Chinese Book Of Changes (I Ching). 'Tae Geuk' is the Korean name for the familiar symbol depicting the Um/Yang  (Yin/Yang) relationship

                                           
Rules for Performing Patterns:

1. Patterns should begin and end at the same spot.
2. Correct posture and facing must be maintained at all times.
3. The muscles of the body should be tensed or relaxed at the critical moments in the exercise.
4. The exercise should be performed in a rhythmic manner with an absence of stiffness.
5. Movement should be accelerated and decelerated at the appropriate times.
6. Each pattern should be perfected before going on to the next.
7. Understand the purpose of each movement.
8. Perform each movement with realism. It is important to remember that these are not just movements, but an imaginary fight. The more real it becomes, the more interesting you will find every motion, and the more meaning the form will acquire.