Training
There are four main disciplines in Tae Kwon Do
Patterns (Poomse)
Self Defence
Patterns, known as Poomse, are set sequences designed to allow the practice and demonstration of hand and foot techniques, changes of stance, balance and fitness. Poomse are also used to develop co-ordination and concentration as well as cultivating the spirit of the martial arts.
Lessons will start with warm up exercises to prepare the body for the training session ahead. The bulk of the training session will be used to explain, demonstrate, imitate and practice the basic techniques and stances of Tae-Kwon-Do. These basic techniques form the basis of the Poomse and students will be introduced to the first of these (known as Il-Jang) as soon as possible.
As well as the traditional stances and techniques that are utilised in the sport of Tae-Kwon-do, students will be taught self defence methods and techniques that are designed to be more appropriate in a realistic situation. It is not always appropriate or possible (due to location, clothes worn etc…) to use techniques like high spinning kicks in a real life setting. The self defence techniques are designed to teach students methods to quickly incapacitate and take control of an attacker whilst being aware of the confinements or limitations of their surroundings. These are the techniques often referred to in other disciplines as ‘Street fighting’.
Destruction
Destruction gives students the opportunity to demonstrate total mastery of their techniques by breaking various items such as wooden boards, bricks and tiles using their bare hands and feet. Destruction techniques or ‘breaktests’ are a compulsory element of the more advanced gradings.
As well as the four main disciplines above, students will be required to take part in general strength, flexibility and stamina exercises.
A normal lesson lasts for 1 hour.
Lessons are conducted in a very disciplined manner from the outset. Students are expected to maintain focus, to listen and to obey their instructors at all times. There will be absolutely no tolerance of bad or unruly behaviour which will be dealt with in a highly disciplined manner. Students (and parents of junior students) should be aware that instructors raising their voice is more the norm than the exception in an average training session – be prepared!
Sparring
Students will participate in sparring sessions which take three forms:-
Three Step Sparring – controlled sparring where a single technique is used to counter a three step attack
One Step Sparring – Similar to three step sparring, but the counter attack is immediate
Free Sparring – practicing all techniques in a free combat situation. These sessions are non-contact or very light contact
General Excercise
I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.
