|
Poomsae
An introduction, to black belt and beyond
By Grand Master Tony Vohra 8th Dan. Photographs by Master Jeff Scott-Smith 5th Dan.
In the June issue, we covered Taegeuk Il Jang, which is the first poomsae that is used in basic development of Taekwondo techniques. This pattern has 20 movements counted as 18 consecutive counts with one kihap at the end, performed over 17-21 seconds. This month we take a look at Ee Jang, the second form. EeJang has 23 movements counted as 18 consecutive counts with one kihap at the end and should take between 18-23 seconds to be performed, from sijak to baro.
Taegeuk Ee Jang is the pattern, essential for progression from 8th KUP to 7th KUP (green tag). If we consider the new movements in this form, we have olgul bandae jireugi (high punching directed to the philtrum). However, in this pattern there are more consecutively delivered movements such as ap chagi olgul bandae jireugi (front snap kick followed by a long stance philtrum punch). Also, and consecutively delivered, are the ap chagi momtong bandae jireugi (front snap kick followed by solar plexus punch) in movements 16, 17 and 18. The final movement should be performed with a simultaneous punch and kihap - LOUD, SHARP and SHORT executed from the lower abdomen.
When executing this form, all movements in a sideways direction, are in ap seogi (walking stance) moving to ap kubi seogi (long stance). When turning, please remember to pivot on the balls of the feet, whilst maintaining the centre line of the body along the straight axis of movement, moving in either direction along a straight line.
When moving forwards and backwards in this form ap seogi is used. Momtong anmakki (reverse mid-section block) and olgul makki (high block) are delivered (which have been covered in detail in previous articles).
Whilst executing the kicking technique, it is important to cover the centre line of the body with the forearms,with a forward and centre guard, holding them close to the body and kicking between the guard. Following this movement, the hand should be drawn back to the waist, creating a reaction arm, ready to execute the punch as you land.
To reiterate, whilst doing all forms, please remember that it is crucial you start and finish at the same spot. As you move doing techniques, the finish of one position is the start of the next position, whilst moving smoothly from one position to the next. It is important to fix each technique but don’t hold the position too long.
Please be sure to look in the direction of movement, in between techniques. The body should be relaxed whilst moving but, have tension in the abdomen/midriff on completion of all attack and defense techniques. Starting at Charyeot and moving to Chumbi at the beginning and Baro at the end of the form, are each done with breathing (inhale and exhale) - taking 5 - 6 seconds.
Breathing is done as in basic movements where you will exhale on the completion of a motion. Teaguek Ee Jang represents tae meaning “pond”. The surface of a pond may be disturbed by the motion of the wind creating waves, whilst the inner centre of the pond remains silent and still. This signifies outer-softness with inner-firmness. The consecutive movements in this form should emulate this rising wavelike motion.
|
