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Talk about forms What Are Poome Se?
One of the most important aspects of Tae Kwon Do training is poome se (patterns or forms). Poome se, sometimes called hyung, are a series of offensive and defensive movements arranged in a predetermined pattern and practiced by the student against multiple imaginary opponents. There are a variety of poome se in the various different Kwan’s of Tae Kwon Do and almost all martial arts include some form of pattern practice. While some poome se movements are designed to develop external strength, power, and balance, other poome se were created to help cultivate internal strength Ki. External strength is developed through proper tensing and relaxing of the muscles, dynamic and rigorous body movement, and by maintaining correct posture, form, and balance. Internal strength is amplified within poome se by means of correct breathing, focus, centralization of power, and by way of intense concentration with a calm mind. But this is not all poome se have to offer. They combine the internal and external forces to stimulate the timing, speed, and ability of the student to apply the techniques within the poome se.
Diligent training and correct mindfulness while learning and practicing poome se lead to real understanding of combat principles. Physical routines were a logical way to preserve and pass on this type of knowledge. The various moves have multiple interpretations and applications and are applicable for actual self-defense. Poome se stress the development of correct basics. Each block, strike, and stance must be without flaw. If correct execution of a technique in a hyung is overlooked, then the student will be off balance, thus greatly reducing the amount of power he can generate. The technique would be, to a great extent, ineffective due to lack of power and focus. Since advanced combinations consist of basic movements, the practitioner must have solid basics.
Basic patterns consist of a few blocks and strikes combined with little in the way of footwork. This early integration of basic techniques helps the student develop rhythm, power, and control. As the student progresses through the ranks, the poome se become increasingly complex. Footwork and body movement intensify until movement becomes more natural and the student's techniques become fluid. It is the coordinated effort of the mind and body, internal and external powers, and reaching for perfection which make poome se an integral part of Tae Kwon Do.
 Steps to Mastering a Form Step # 1 Learn in small increments. Have your instructor show you only five or six movements at a time. When you've memorized them, ask to see the next five or six.
Step # 2
Memorize the entire form. Once you have been shown all the movements, practice the form all the way through. Don't worry about whether each movement is correct yet. Count off each movement the same way your instructor would when going through the form in class.
Step # 3
Work on your stances (make sure you are in the correct stance!). Put your hands on your hips and go through the form using only your feet. Check the width of your stances, the length of your steps and where your weight is during each movement. Make your turns are smooth and you are not off balance. Don't spin and don’t stomp.
Step # 4
Work on your hand techniques (make sure you are doing the correct strike/block at the correct level). Once you have gotten your foot movements perfected, add your hands. Make sure your blocks protect your body; your punches are straight and on target and your upper body is facing the correct direction for each movement.
Step # 5
Work on your head. Make sure your eyes are always on your imaginary opponent. Turn your head before turning your body. Never turn without looking first.
Step # 6
Work on the timing. Most techniques, blocks, kicks, or strikes can be formed into logical combinations. As you practice, some movements will naturally go together and just think about the combinations. For instance, a block, grab, turn and throw are all part of one technique. Ask your instructor to perform the form. You'll see how he or she allows one movement to flow into the next.
Step # 7
Add energy & power. Perform the combinations with the same speed and power you would if you were fighting a real opponent. Anyone observing your performance should make a mental note to never force you to defend yourself. Don't forget to kihap!
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