Evolution of Learning Hyung Part 1- - Chief Instructor's Blog August 2011

Note: This two part series describes the evolution of learning hyung (forms). The first part describes the mechanics and mechanical power.

Forms (Hyung) contain the foundation of any particular art form. One can study one form for years and still uncover applications and learn something new about the art form; in essence there is an evolution to learning hyung and an evolution to understanding a hyung and therefore in understanding the art form. In learning and studying forms, the evolution starts with the mechanics, mechanical power, energy and other more advanced aspects. And in each step as you learn something new, you embrace it as part of that form, other forms, and the basics, such that as a martial artist you are evolving as well.

In the Beginning – Mechanics
Before learning any new form, it is recommended students first learn the new techniques introduced in that form. It is also recommended student focus on a single interpretation for each technique when first learning the form to allow them to focus on the correct position, motion, transitions, stance, eye position, etc. Once the techniques are known, students should practice the entire the pattern of the form. This includes learning and perfecting the correct posture and eye position for each technique.

In general, in learning the forms, techniques that are performed with an advancing motion should be demonstrated as strikes/kicks, while those with a retreating motion should be demonstrated as blocks.

Students should practice the pattern and mechanics until they are comfortable with each technique and know the exact position for each technique. Students should practice the forms facing different directions and even with their eyes closed until they are very comfortable with the pattern and mechanics.

Once students learn the form, students should demonstrate the form for an instructor to determine when they are either ready to learn the next form or to start adding more force or start studying how they are using energy. Students should be able to get through the entire form undistracted and without hesitation and know the precise position of each technique before moving onto another form. Each form provides its own challenges which are typically areas students should focus on when practicing the form or when they start to apply force or eventually energy to the form.

Over time, advanced students (Black Belts) should perform the techniques such that the techniques are abbreviated and the punches/strikes are shorter and the movements are more concise.

Advanced students should also explore the forms that do not naturally finish at the starting spot and discover what adjustments need to be made to finish at the starting spot. The ability to adjust stances to be able to move to an exact spot has merit in self-defense scenarios.

Force and Speed (Mechanical Power)
Once the pattern and mechanics are well understood, students should start to apply force and speed to techniques and the movement in the forms. Students are encouraged to practice forms at full force and speed while attempting to maintain perfect mechanics. Even while practicing at full speed and power, students need to still ensure they are locking into stance before finishing the technique. Other art forms gain mechanical power by locking into the stance and executing the technique at the same time. If the target changes position and you strike it before you are into stance, the technique will not be effective. In Han Moo Kwan, we also train to be more effective by using stance, and not relying on the motion of locking into stance to produce the power. This allows students to develop strong techniques that can still be effective in situations where they are unable to lock into their stance as opposed to being totally ineffective.

Forms should be practiced with full force and speed after a heavy workout when one is completely exhausted. This training will allow one to practice in an environment closer to a real self-defense situation, where one needs to be able to perform as effectively as possible even if one is injured or tired. In addition, when training with force and speed, it allows one to practice controlled breathing.

In Part II, the energy side plus some other aspects of studying the forms at an advanced level are described.

“To practice kata is not to memorize an order. You must find the kata that work for you, understand them, digest them and stick with them for life.” ~ Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957), founder of Shotokan Karate

Regards,
Kelly