The Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club is an organization charged with the responsibility of maintaining a fighting art as it was initially taught by Mr. Kim, staying true to both its application and intent.
Combining a club atmosphere with the teaching and learning of a potentially deadly fighting art requires the instructors to maintain the right balance of attitude, creating an environment which promotes a friendly exchange of ideas while modeling the necessary intensity. Over time, the club setting tends to foster close friendships which further enhance the spirit of the club. This often results in club members socializing outside of class.
The Art Form:
There were many forms of Tae Kwon Do developed in Korea, promoted through a variety of schools called “Kwans”. Han Moo Kwan is one of nine original families within Tae Kwon Do, and has a somewhat colorful background. The Han Moo Kwan philosophy and strategies are based on an honorable fighting art with its origins dating back hundred of years. According to Mr. Kim, it was selected as a primary form taught to the military, and was forced to go underground when Korea experienced times of political change.
Our Han Moo Kwan retains the traditional style and philosophy taught to Mr. Kim in the 1950s, before the unification of the Kwans (schools) into the World TaeKwonDo Federation (WTF). Unlike WTF, which markets its training toward younger students desiring to achieve through competition (sport), this form addresses the needs of the adult who wishes to practice a power form designed for personal combat. This fighting art is used strictly for self-defense using only bare hands and feet, no weaponry, to fend off attackers.
The physical (body) aspect of our training provides the student with an aerobic and anaerobic workout. Other benefits include increased flexibility, improved balance, and strength training. The mental (mind) aspect of the art form teaches power and focus. Other benefits include stress reduction and increased self-confidence. The discipline of blending these body-mind skills is based on a respect for oneself and others.
The strategies of the Han Moo Kwan art form is close the distance, perform simple, straightforward techniques, strike or block for damage to end altercation quickly, be grounded, and extend energy. The most common tactics used to execute the strategies are linear strikes, kicks, and blocks.
The Chief Instructor reports directly to the Club President, and is responsible to the Board Of Directors for maintaining the integrity of the art form.
The Club Atmosphere:
The club atmosphere was developed and set by Mr. Kim and Bob Rainie. They intentionally dropped most of the formalities found in traditional Korean Tae Kwon Do schools. They also made sure that the club had a social side, so that it was not just a martial arts studio. Mr. Kim suggested dropping the use of Korean terminology and constant bowing so the club workouts would be more like friends getting together than students working under an instructor.
The Club is a non-profit organization. All class instructors are black belts and receive no money for instruction but are “paid” in different ways. Part of this approach revolves around “giving back” to the community which is in-line with Mr. Kim’s philosophy about sharing the art form. In our case, individuals reaching the rank of black belt are expected to give back to those members just starting out.
To help facilitate a club atmosphere, events are planned throughout the year such as picnics in the summer for club members to interact in a relaxed, social environment. Also after students are awarded their new rank, they are treated to a celebration dinner.
Club Officers from the beginning have been essential in running and building the Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club. The Club Officers are the liaisons with the corporate sponsor, Han Moo Kwan Association Board Of Directors and the community. They are the forerunners in promoting and ensuring longevity of the Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club and art form.
Although the art form is often seen as “harsh”, the club retains its underlying goal of building community. Studied by men and women, the young and not so young, a strong sense of camaraderie develops among club members.
Regards,
Kelly
“Show up. Work out.” ~ Mr. Ui Jung Kim (1941-1999), 6th Degree Black Belt, Founder of the Han Moo Kwan Club, Sunnyvale, CA
References
1. http://www.hanmookwan.org/about_us.htm
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Monday, January 2, 2012
Ego, Pride, and Martial Arts - - Chief Instructor's Blog January 2012
Ego, according to dictionary.com, is “conceit; self-importance; self-esteem or self-image.” Pride, according to dictionary.com, is “a high or inordinate opinion of one's own dignity, importance, merit, or superiority, whether as cherished in the mind or as displayed in bearing, conduct, etc.” Another definition of pride, according to dictionary.com, is “a becoming or dignified sense of what is due to oneself or one's position or character; self-respect; self-esteem.” Therefore, Egotism and pride are synonyms.
How can ego/pride hurt you in your practicing, studying, or using martial arts.
In practicing martial arts, your pride and ego get in the way when (1) you are more focused on going faster than your partner or the student next to you than doing it right; (2) you are more focused about “winning” the drill, sparring match, self-defense exchange than learning and doing it right; or (3) you quit practicing altogether because it is taking you longer to learn and become skillful than those around you.
In studying martial arts, your pride and ego get in the way when you (1) are not open to feedback and corrections and make excuses for why you are doing what you are doing losing out on the information the instructor or coach is trying to impact; (2) do not believe you can learn from anyone in the Club regardless of their rank; or (3) are not open to new ideas, again losing out on information trying to be imparted to you.
As stated in my previous blog, if your ego/pride is in the way when you need to use your skill, you may either underestimate your opponent or do more damage than is necessary because you feel slighted (when you may have been able to just walk away had your ego/pride been in check). Neither of these situations will result in a positive outcome. It can land you in jail, result in someone else losing their life or causing severe damage, or costing you your own life or resulting in severe damage to yourself.
Ego/pride does not have a place in the martial arts, they just get in the way. For each class, each drill, each time you practice, as you bow into the dojang check your ego/pride at the door. When you bow to your opponent, remember to place your ego and pride to the side to get the most out of your martial arts study and practice.
Regards,
Kelly
“The martial arts are ultimately self-knowledge. A punch or a kick is not to knock the hell out of the guy in front, but to knock the hell out of your ego, your fear, or your hang-ups.” ~ Bruce Lee, (1940 –1973) American-born Chinese Hong Kong martial artist, actor, and founder of Jeet Kune Do
References
1. http://www.dictionary.com
How can ego/pride hurt you in your practicing, studying, or using martial arts.
In practicing martial arts, your pride and ego get in the way when (1) you are more focused on going faster than your partner or the student next to you than doing it right; (2) you are more focused about “winning” the drill, sparring match, self-defense exchange than learning and doing it right; or (3) you quit practicing altogether because it is taking you longer to learn and become skillful than those around you.
In studying martial arts, your pride and ego get in the way when you (1) are not open to feedback and corrections and make excuses for why you are doing what you are doing losing out on the information the instructor or coach is trying to impact; (2) do not believe you can learn from anyone in the Club regardless of their rank; or (3) are not open to new ideas, again losing out on information trying to be imparted to you.
As stated in my previous blog, if your ego/pride is in the way when you need to use your skill, you may either underestimate your opponent or do more damage than is necessary because you feel slighted (when you may have been able to just walk away had your ego/pride been in check). Neither of these situations will result in a positive outcome. It can land you in jail, result in someone else losing their life or causing severe damage, or costing you your own life or resulting in severe damage to yourself.
Ego/pride does not have a place in the martial arts, they just get in the way. For each class, each drill, each time you practice, as you bow into the dojang check your ego/pride at the door. When you bow to your opponent, remember to place your ego and pride to the side to get the most out of your martial arts study and practice.
Regards,
Kelly
“The martial arts are ultimately self-knowledge. A punch or a kick is not to knock the hell out of the guy in front, but to knock the hell out of your ego, your fear, or your hang-ups.” ~ Bruce Lee, (1940 –1973) American-born Chinese Hong Kong martial artist, actor, and founder of Jeet Kune Do
References
1. http://www.dictionary.com
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Community Service and Martial Arts - - Chief Instructor's Blog December 2011
One of the concepts Mr. Kim stressed as a tenet of the Han Moo Kwan Club was giving back to the community. This is one of the major reasons that Mr. Kim never asked for payment for any of his instruction, why the Club Instructors continue to serve the Club without payment, and why the Club operates as a not-for profit organization.
General Choi Hong Hi, Founder of International Taekwondo Federation, wrote in his book Encyclopedia of Tae Kwon Do The Art of Self Defense that “By contributing labor to the community, especially to the poor or disabled, the student learns charity, humility, comradeship, tolerance and a sense of generosity."
So why is community service and learning charity, humility, comradeship, tolerance and a sense of generosity important in studying martial arts?
Charity, according to dictionary.com, is “generous actions or donations to aid the poor, ill, or helpless”. Learning and understanding charity supports the notion of using martial arts to defend those around you that are in need. This may mean actually using your skill or ensuring police or security is called so they can protect those unable to protect themselves. Or just showing presence and peacefulness can sometimes calm down a difficult situation, and attract people to another way of being. This is one of the true essence of the martial arts spirit. Sun Tzu in The Art of War, stated “The best victory is when the opponent surrenders of its own accord before there are any actual hostilities...It is best to win without fighting.”
By learning humility, one learns to be respectful, keep their pride in check and not be arrogant. These attributes can save your life if you ever have to use your martial arts skill to defend yourself. By being respectful and keeping your pride in check you will not let your ego get in the way; you will respect the potential skill the other person may have as well as only do what you need to do to stay safe. If your ego gets in the way, you may either underestimate your opponent or do more damage than is necessary because you felt slighted. Neither of these situations will result in a positive outcome.
Comradeship is critical in learning martial arts. Learning martial arts by oneself is near impossible. It is the sharing in the classes and session that you truly are learning and growing as a martial artist.
Tolerance allows one to have according to dictionary.com “a fair, objective, and permissive attitude toward opinions and practices that differ from one's own“. This is also critical in learning martial arts. By keeping on open and objective mind you are more open to learning new ideas and thoughts. In our Club this is especially important when learning or hearing about the energy side of the martial arts. At first these ideas may seem impossible or against what you think or think you know; therefore it is critical to be open to what may be possible if you want to really learn the full extent of the art form.
One of the definitions of generosity in dictinary.com is “freedom from meanness or smallness of mind or character.” If you are confident in yourself and not vindictive, you will ensure you use martial arts for what it is meant to be used for – only for self defense and only if you feel unsafe or feel those that are with you are unsafe. If you use martial arts for any other reason, you will no doubt find yourself in trouble with the law and dishonoring the teachings, that have been shared with you.
As the holidays are upon us, I encourage you to not only ponder how community service and these five attributes described by General Choi may improve your martial arts or the study of martial arts, but to also participate in a community service act.
Regards,
Kelly
"True karate is this: that in daily life one's mind and body be trained and developed in a spirit of humility, and that in critical times, one be devoted utterly to the cause of justice." ~ Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957), founder of Shotokan Karate
References
1. Encyclopedia of Tae Kwon Do The Art of Self Defense by General Choi Hong Hi
2. http://www.dictionary.com
3. The Art of War by Sun Tzu
General Choi Hong Hi, Founder of International Taekwondo Federation, wrote in his book Encyclopedia of Tae Kwon Do The Art of Self Defense that “By contributing labor to the community, especially to the poor or disabled, the student learns charity, humility, comradeship, tolerance and a sense of generosity."
So why is community service and learning charity, humility, comradeship, tolerance and a sense of generosity important in studying martial arts?
Charity, according to dictionary.com, is “generous actions or donations to aid the poor, ill, or helpless”. Learning and understanding charity supports the notion of using martial arts to defend those around you that are in need. This may mean actually using your skill or ensuring police or security is called so they can protect those unable to protect themselves. Or just showing presence and peacefulness can sometimes calm down a difficult situation, and attract people to another way of being. This is one of the true essence of the martial arts spirit. Sun Tzu in The Art of War, stated “The best victory is when the opponent surrenders of its own accord before there are any actual hostilities...It is best to win without fighting.”
By learning humility, one learns to be respectful, keep their pride in check and not be arrogant. These attributes can save your life if you ever have to use your martial arts skill to defend yourself. By being respectful and keeping your pride in check you will not let your ego get in the way; you will respect the potential skill the other person may have as well as only do what you need to do to stay safe. If your ego gets in the way, you may either underestimate your opponent or do more damage than is necessary because you felt slighted. Neither of these situations will result in a positive outcome.
Comradeship is critical in learning martial arts. Learning martial arts by oneself is near impossible. It is the sharing in the classes and session that you truly are learning and growing as a martial artist.
Tolerance allows one to have according to dictionary.com “a fair, objective, and permissive attitude toward opinions and practices that differ from one's own“. This is also critical in learning martial arts. By keeping on open and objective mind you are more open to learning new ideas and thoughts. In our Club this is especially important when learning or hearing about the energy side of the martial arts. At first these ideas may seem impossible or against what you think or think you know; therefore it is critical to be open to what may be possible if you want to really learn the full extent of the art form.
One of the definitions of generosity in dictinary.com is “freedom from meanness or smallness of mind or character.” If you are confident in yourself and not vindictive, you will ensure you use martial arts for what it is meant to be used for – only for self defense and only if you feel unsafe or feel those that are with you are unsafe. If you use martial arts for any other reason, you will no doubt find yourself in trouble with the law and dishonoring the teachings, that have been shared with you.
As the holidays are upon us, I encourage you to not only ponder how community service and these five attributes described by General Choi may improve your martial arts or the study of martial arts, but to also participate in a community service act.
Regards,
Kelly
"True karate is this: that in daily life one's mind and body be trained and developed in a spirit of humility, and that in critical times, one be devoted utterly to the cause of justice." ~ Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957), founder of Shotokan Karate
References
1. Encyclopedia of Tae Kwon Do The Art of Self Defense by General Choi Hong Hi
2. http://www.dictionary.com
3. The Art of War by Sun Tzu
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Why We Learn Falls and Rolls We Do - - Chief Instructor's Blog November 2011
Falls and rolls are not considered part of Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do. Mr. Kim was convinced by the founding fathers to train students in falls and rolls for safety reasons. Mr. Kim would say “Just don’t fall”. However, in sparring or self-defense situations, a fall may occur when one is thrown, or a leg is grabbed when a kick is not retracted quickly enough, and therefore it is important to teach students to fall correctly so they will not get hurt. The falls and rolls taught in the club are a few of the basics types of falls and rolls and are a combination of what is traditionally taught in Aikido and Judo.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both Judo and Aikido falls and rolls. Judo falls and rolls are designed to take harder, more uncontrolled falls, and minimize impact to the arms, legs, and head. One of the main objectives of Judo falls and rolls is to stop all momentum. If one were flying off a motorcycle at 30 miles per hour, a person would reduce their chances of injury if they performed a Judo fall or roll. Judo falls and rolls are harder to teach, harder to learn and become more proficient at. Those practicing Judo typically practice falls and rolls 90-100 times a night several nights a week to become proficient. Aikido falls and rolls are designed more to guide your body and softly and safety land and return to one’s feet while minimizing impact to the arms, legs, and head. One of the objectives of Aikido falls and rolls is to go with the momentum and continue with it. They are typically easier to teach and initially learn.
Since the main purpose in the Han Moo Kwan Club is to keep students safe in class and falls and rolls are practiced minimally, what is taught in our club is a combination of the two to take the aspect of each that keeps students safe in class while being able to apply aspects that integrate better with Han Moo Kwan. What is taught is also just a few of the basics types of falls and rolls which we consider the most likely to be used or can be used instead of another type of fall or roll. For example, we do not teach back rolls, since a back fall could be used in the situation. Initially we teach the Aikido style to the new students since it is easier to learn. Later we introduce the Judo style to more advanced students.
For example, the leg tuck as one returns to a sitting position, is Aikido style. Judo pikes the legs at impact. Some of the pros of the leg cross from a Han Moo Kwan perspective include but is not limited to (1) The leg tuck promotes more leg strength which can support learning and being more proficient in kicks and cat stance; (2) allows one to return to one’s feet more quickly; and (3) allow one to use the legs while on the ground. However, the leg tuck could cause more injury in a hard fall (slamming the ankle to the ground, etc), so learning the Judo style in this case would cause less injury.
Again, there are benefits to both styles and by learning both you can keep yourself safe in situations (in class and outside of class) if you fall or are thrown.
Regards,
Kelly
"Fall seven times, stand up eight." - Japanese Proverb
There are advantages and disadvantages to both Judo and Aikido falls and rolls. Judo falls and rolls are designed to take harder, more uncontrolled falls, and minimize impact to the arms, legs, and head. One of the main objectives of Judo falls and rolls is to stop all momentum. If one were flying off a motorcycle at 30 miles per hour, a person would reduce their chances of injury if they performed a Judo fall or roll. Judo falls and rolls are harder to teach, harder to learn and become more proficient at. Those practicing Judo typically practice falls and rolls 90-100 times a night several nights a week to become proficient. Aikido falls and rolls are designed more to guide your body and softly and safety land and return to one’s feet while minimizing impact to the arms, legs, and head. One of the objectives of Aikido falls and rolls is to go with the momentum and continue with it. They are typically easier to teach and initially learn.
Since the main purpose in the Han Moo Kwan Club is to keep students safe in class and falls and rolls are practiced minimally, what is taught in our club is a combination of the two to take the aspect of each that keeps students safe in class while being able to apply aspects that integrate better with Han Moo Kwan. What is taught is also just a few of the basics types of falls and rolls which we consider the most likely to be used or can be used instead of another type of fall or roll. For example, we do not teach back rolls, since a back fall could be used in the situation. Initially we teach the Aikido style to the new students since it is easier to learn. Later we introduce the Judo style to more advanced students.
For example, the leg tuck as one returns to a sitting position, is Aikido style. Judo pikes the legs at impact. Some of the pros of the leg cross from a Han Moo Kwan perspective include but is not limited to (1) The leg tuck promotes more leg strength which can support learning and being more proficient in kicks and cat stance; (2) allows one to return to one’s feet more quickly; and (3) allow one to use the legs while on the ground. However, the leg tuck could cause more injury in a hard fall (slamming the ankle to the ground, etc), so learning the Judo style in this case would cause less injury.
Again, there are benefits to both styles and by learning both you can keep yourself safe in situations (in class and outside of class) if you fall or are thrown.
Regards,
Kelly
"Fall seven times, stand up eight." - Japanese Proverb
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Benefits of Learning Hyung Exactly - - Chief Instructor's Blog October 2011
The previous two blogs discussed the evolution of learning hyung. It was noted that the first step to learning hyung is learning the mechanics. One aspect of the mechanic is learning and knowing the exact position and motion for each technique.
You may ask yourself, why hyung need to be learned so perfectly. In Gichin Funokohi’s The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate [1], his eighteenth principle is “Perform kata exactly: real combat is another matter.”
Funakoshi states, “Since techniques and methods of every kind have been woven into kata, and experts and masters from ages past have carefully preserved the various kata, kata should be practiced and performed in the same way they are taught.
Learning the techniques, motion, and transitions precisely allows one to develop discipline, control, more awareness of one’s body (since you need to learn to be aware when you are not performing a technique, motion, or transitions correctly). By practicing being precise, you will be more capable of striking or kicking an opponent exactly where you choose to strike or kick them.
Martial art masters that created hyung had applications and lessons in mind when they developed them. Many martial arts masters would study one hyung (kata) for decades to truly understand all the applications and the lessons to be learned from one form
Much of the history and knowledge of martial arts was never written down and from our Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do lineage perspective if it was written down, it most likely perished in World War II when the Okinawan Islands were practically destroyed. However, since hyung were created with applications and the spirit of martial arts in mind among others things, by studying and practicing you may be capable of uncovering this wealth of knowledge and the sprit left to us by masters a hundred plus years ago.
Regards,
Kelly
“Keep kata as they are without embellishing them.” ~ AnkÅ Itosu, (1831 –1915) Okinawan Karate Master and considered the creator of the Pinan/Heian/Pyung Ahn series
References
1. The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate: The Spiritual Legacy of the Master by Gichin Funakoshi
You may ask yourself, why hyung need to be learned so perfectly. In Gichin Funokohi’s The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate [1], his eighteenth principle is “Perform kata exactly: real combat is another matter.”
Funakoshi states, “Since techniques and methods of every kind have been woven into kata, and experts and masters from ages past have carefully preserved the various kata, kata should be practiced and performed in the same way they are taught.
Learning the techniques, motion, and transitions precisely allows one to develop discipline, control, more awareness of one’s body (since you need to learn to be aware when you are not performing a technique, motion, or transitions correctly). By practicing being precise, you will be more capable of striking or kicking an opponent exactly where you choose to strike or kick them.
Martial art masters that created hyung had applications and lessons in mind when they developed them. Many martial arts masters would study one hyung (kata) for decades to truly understand all the applications and the lessons to be learned from one form
Much of the history and knowledge of martial arts was never written down and from our Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do lineage perspective if it was written down, it most likely perished in World War II when the Okinawan Islands were practically destroyed. However, since hyung were created with applications and the spirit of martial arts in mind among others things, by studying and practicing you may be capable of uncovering this wealth of knowledge and the sprit left to us by masters a hundred plus years ago.
Regards,
Kelly
“Keep kata as they are without embellishing them.” ~ AnkÅ Itosu, (1831 –1915) Okinawan Karate Master and considered the creator of the Pinan/Heian/Pyung Ahn series
References
1. The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate: The Spiritual Legacy of the Master by Gichin Funakoshi
Friday, September 2, 2011
Evolution of Learning Hyung Part I1- - Chief Instructor's Blog September 2011
Note: This two part series describes the evolution of learning hyung (forms). The first part described the mechanics and mechanical power. In this second part, the energy side plus some other aspects of studying the forms at an advanced level are described.
Studying Energy
When students can apply sufficient force to cause damage with each technique, it is also a time for students to work with an instructor to study the relationship of energy and their mechanics. This practice is to ensure that the direction of focus and movement for each technique or transition to the next technique matches the direction of the energy.
Study of Variations and Application
For more advanced students (Interim Black and Black Belts), once the form can be performed well with force and speed, students should explore all possible variations and applications of the moves. This analysis of the forms to undercover its applications are called bunkai in Japanese. The variations, applications or interpretation of the techniques can be as many as the expansiveness of one’s imagination. Everything within the hyung has a meaning or application (even though some of them may not be very obvious), even turns and transition, so these too should be studied in detail.
Again, a single interpretation of a technique is practiced when first learning the form so students can focus more on the correct position, motion, transitions, stance, and eye position for each technique.
Discovering the variations and applications within a form should be practiced with a partner to understand and explore their potential applications in self-defense or sparring. When practicing with a partner, in order to determine the effectiveness of techniques, it is important that partners respond to the techniques with realistic and predictable responses. In addition, by sharing new ideas, other interpretations of the application(s) may be uncovered. In studying the variations and possible applications, it is also important to try to understand why it works.
References 1 and 2 are excellent sources of information about studying applications in the hyung.
Applying and Projecting Energy
For advanced students (Black Belts), after exploring force and speed and potential applications of each technique within the form, they should spend time on applying and projecting energy and setting intentions throughout the techniques within the form.
Advanced students should consider practicing the forms eliminating reciprocal actions and relying on internal energy for power instead.
To start projecting energy one must also have focus and intent. When practicing Han Moo Kwan, the students should have intent of the energy that matches the strategies and philosophy of Han Moo Kwan: direct, offensive, linear, hard. When students project energy with good mechanics and focus (mind-body-spirit) it makes them extremely effective and increases their overall power. In addition, when students project energy during Hyung, which will be unique to each person’s own style and method of doing so, students start “making the Hyung their own.” This does not mean that the student changes what the Hyung looks like to a casual observer or changes the style of the art form. A natural fall out of this is the timing and cadence of the form varies throughout the hyung based on the intent and focus being projected.
In addition, advanced students should also start practicing where they split their ethereal body from their physical for each move of the form such that their ethereal body is ahead and protects the physical body until the physical body completes the technique.
Finishing at Starting Spot
Advanced students (Black Belts), 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.
Regards,
Kelly
“Kata and wazu (technique) are both limited by themselves. They are useless until one learns how to apply them in any situation.” ~ Okinawan Martial Arts Poem, unknown author
References
1. Bunkai-Jutsu by Iain Abernethy
2. The Way of Kata: A Comprehensive Guide for Deciphering Martial Applications by Lawrence Kane
Studying Energy
When students can apply sufficient force to cause damage with each technique, it is also a time for students to work with an instructor to study the relationship of energy and their mechanics. This practice is to ensure that the direction of focus and movement for each technique or transition to the next technique matches the direction of the energy.
Study of Variations and Application
For more advanced students (Interim Black and Black Belts), once the form can be performed well with force and speed, students should explore all possible variations and applications of the moves. This analysis of the forms to undercover its applications are called bunkai in Japanese. The variations, applications or interpretation of the techniques can be as many as the expansiveness of one’s imagination. Everything within the hyung has a meaning or application (even though some of them may not be very obvious), even turns and transition, so these too should be studied in detail.
Again, a single interpretation of a technique is practiced when first learning the form so students can focus more on the correct position, motion, transitions, stance, and eye position for each technique.
Discovering the variations and applications within a form should be practiced with a partner to understand and explore their potential applications in self-defense or sparring. When practicing with a partner, in order to determine the effectiveness of techniques, it is important that partners respond to the techniques with realistic and predictable responses. In addition, by sharing new ideas, other interpretations of the application(s) may be uncovered. In studying the variations and possible applications, it is also important to try to understand why it works.
References 1 and 2 are excellent sources of information about studying applications in the hyung.
Applying and Projecting Energy
For advanced students (Black Belts), after exploring force and speed and potential applications of each technique within the form, they should spend time on applying and projecting energy and setting intentions throughout the techniques within the form.
Advanced students should consider practicing the forms eliminating reciprocal actions and relying on internal energy for power instead.
To start projecting energy one must also have focus and intent. When practicing Han Moo Kwan, the students should have intent of the energy that matches the strategies and philosophy of Han Moo Kwan: direct, offensive, linear, hard. When students project energy with good mechanics and focus (mind-body-spirit) it makes them extremely effective and increases their overall power. In addition, when students project energy during Hyung, which will be unique to each person’s own style and method of doing so, students start “making the Hyung their own.” This does not mean that the student changes what the Hyung looks like to a casual observer or changes the style of the art form. A natural fall out of this is the timing and cadence of the form varies throughout the hyung based on the intent and focus being projected.
In addition, advanced students should also start practicing where they split their ethereal body from their physical for each move of the form such that their ethereal body is ahead and protects the physical body until the physical body completes the technique.
Finishing at Starting Spot
Advanced students (Black Belts), 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.
Regards,
Kelly
“Kata and wazu (technique) are both limited by themselves. They are useless until one learns how to apply them in any situation.” ~ Okinawan Martial Arts Poem, unknown author
References
1. Bunkai-Jutsu by Iain Abernethy
2. The Way of Kata: A Comprehensive Guide for Deciphering Martial Applications by Lawrence Kane
Monday, August 1, 2011
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
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
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