Patterns (Tul)

A pattern (Tul) is a series of fundamental moves of attack and defence set to a fixed or logical sequence performed against an imaginary opponent(s). As the General wrote “though sparring may merely indicate that an opponent is more or less advanced, patterns are a more critical barometer in evaluating an individual’s technique.”

The following points should be borne in mind while performing patterns:

1. The Pattern should begin and end at the same spot. This show the performers accuracy.

2. Correct posture and facing must be maintained at all time

3. Muscles of the body should be either tense or relaxed at the proper critical moments in the exercise

4. The exercise should be performed in a rhythmic movement with an absence of stiffness

5. Each pattern should be perfected before moving to the the next

6. Students should know the purpose of each movement

7. Students should perform each movement with realism

When students are first learning patterns, we tend to see stiffness and attempts at power being delivered by force. However, the key to power is relaxation. Try not to introduce stiffness into your patterns. Similarly, beginners often rush through the pattern (in part driven by nerves). The table below gives some guidance as to the approximate pace you should be looking to achieve. Obviously there is no one correct speed, but the table gives you a rough idea.

We have shown three columns of times. The first is Master Suska, perhaps the single most successful patterns competitor of all time, the second is the time taken during the filming of the Legacy project which was overseen by the General himself, and the third is the recommended time from the ITF. Times round these will show the natural flow of the pattern.

There are 24 patterns in ITF Taekwondo. The General wrote “The life of a human being...can be considered as day when compared to eternity...the 24 patterns represent 24 hours, one day [when viewed from the perspective of eternity] or all of my life [when viewed from the perspective of the individual]”.

Each of the patterns links to an important element of Korean history and/or culture. One of the many ways in which General Choi attempted to protect the Korean heritage from ever facing the existential threats all too common in the past.