Forms (Hyung) contain the foundation of any particular art form and I believe Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do is no different. Some literature states that forms were developed to ensure that the most effective methods of a particular individual or style were not lost; and therefore the true meaning and spirit of an art form can be found through the study and understanding of its forms.
One can study one form for years and still uncover applications and learn something new about the art form. In some literature, it states that Masters used to only study one or two form throughout their lifetime so they could really understand every technique, transition, and subtlety of the form.
There is so much one can learn and gain from practicing and studying the forms; every aspect of the art form is covered from the foundations and the techniques themselves to the philosophy and strategy of the art form as well as the energy side.
When first learning a form, students should focus purely on the mechanics and getting the mechanically movements down perfecting – this includes correct posture, correct eye position, footwork, balance, as well as the motion of the techniques themselves.
Students should practice the forms facing different directions and even with their eyes closed until they are very comfortable with the pattern and mechanics and can perform them without hesitation.
Once the pattern and mechanics are well understood, students should start to apply force and speed to the form. Even while practicing at full speed and power, students should ensure they are locking into stance before finishing the technique.
Students should practice forms 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.
At the advanced stages of studding and practicing forms (Black Belts and above), students will explore:
- The relationship of energy and their mechanics
- Variations and applications
- Projecting energy
Learning and practicing forms can be an exciting part of the art form. The forms themselves contain so much information and one can practice almost every aspect of the art form while practicing a form. In addition, form practice can be done by oneself, and in a limited space, so practicing is not limited but who is around or the size of the room.
I encourage all of you to practice your forms more diligently and start looking for the gems in each form that challenge you and use that challenge to help you propel you further on your journey in learning Han Moo Kwan.
For more information regarding the Han Moo Kwan forms, I refer you to the Association website (http://www.hanmookwan.org/hyung.htm).
Regards,
Kelly
"Don't get set into one form, adapt it and build your own, and let it grow, be like water. Empty your mind, be formless, shapeless — like water. Now you put water in a cup, it becomes the cup; You put water into a bottle it becomes the bottle; You put it in a teapot it becomes the teapot. Water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend." – Bruce Lee
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