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PATTERNS (TULS)
THE PURPOSE OF PATTERNS (TUL)
In ancient times, strict laws - similar to the Code of Hammurabi’s “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” - were enforced even when harm occurred accidentally. Because free sparring as we know it today did not yet exist, martial arts students had no safe way to practice or test their skills against moving opponents.
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Progress was limited until an innovative practitioner created the first patterns. Patterns are sequences of fundamental movements, representing offensive and defensive techniques arranged in a logical order. Through patterns, a student practices responding to multiple imaginary opponents from different angles, using a wide range of attacking and blocking tools.
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Pattern training allows students to:
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Develop sparring skills
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Improve flexibility and body shifting
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Strengthen muscles and breath control
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Build smooth, fluid, and rhythmic movement
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Learn techniques not easily gained through basics or sparring alone
In essence, a pattern functions like a unit tactic - a complete, structured method for applying techniques. While sparring may show who is more experienced, patterns are a more accurate measure of a student’s technical ability.
NINE POINTS TO PERFECTING PATTERNS
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Starting and ending point — The pattern should begin and end at the same spot, demonstrating accuracy.
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Posture and facing — Maintain correct posture and direction at all times.
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Muscle control — Tense or relax muscles at the appropriate moments.
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Rhythm — Movements should be rhythmic and free of stiffness.
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Speed variation — Accelerate or decelerate movements as required.
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Mastery — Perfect each pattern before advancing to the next.
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Purpose — Understand the purpose of every movement.
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Realism — Perform each movement with realistic intent.
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Balance of techniques — Distribute techniques evenly between right and left sides.
THE 24 PATTERNS ON TAEKWON-DO
Our system includes 24 patterns, symbolizing the 24 hours of a day—a metaphor for one’s entire life. TaeKwon‑Do is meant to become a lifelong practice.
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Each pattern’s name, number of movements, and diagram represent significant figures or events in Korean history. As you learn each pattern, you will also learn its historical meaning and symbolism.