Reason for Patterns

What do Patterns represent?
The name of each pattern and the number of movements and diagram/symbol of each pattern symbolize either a historical event or heroic figure in Korean history. These events and heroic figures are to be respected.Although the history is Korean, all people and cultures can relate to their struggle and triumphs. The messages and morals are universal and the purpose of memorising the meanings is to honour and uphold the people, actions and events, therefore representing the tenets of Tae Kwon-Do.
What is a Pattern?
A pattern is a set of fundamental movements, both attack and defence, set in a logical sequence designed to deal with one or more imaginary opponents. Patterns are an indication of a student’s progress, or a barometer in evaluating an individual’s technique.
Why do we perform Patterns?
Patterns are practised to improve Tae Kwon-Do techniques, to develop sparring techniques, improve flexibility of movement, master body shifting, build and tone muscles and improve balance and breath control. They also enable the student to learn techniques which cannot be found in other forms of training.
Why are there 24 Patterns?
The reason for 24 patterns is because the founder, General Choi Hong Hi, compared the life of man with a day in the life of the earth. He believes that people should strive to bequeath a good spiritual legacy to coming generations and in doing so gain immortality. Therefore if we can leave something behind for the welfare of mankind, maybe it will be the most important thing to happen in our lives, as the founder says:

“Here I leave Tae Kwon-Do for mankind as a trace of a man of the late 20th century. The twenty four patterns represent twenty four hours, one day, or all of my life.“
Points to consider when performing Patterns
  • Patterns should begin and end on the same spot. This will indicate the performers accuracy.
  • Correct posture and facing must be maintained at all times.
  • Muscles of the body should be tensed or relaxed at the proper critical moments in the pattern.
  • The pattern should be performed in a rhythmic movement with the absence of stiffness.
  • Each pattern should be accelerated or decelerated according to instructions.
  • Each pattern should be perfected before moving on to the next.
  • Students should know the purpose of each movement.
  • Students should perform each movement with realism.

“When you know One thing Through and Through Then you know Everything.”