Tae Kwon Do’s hyungs training teaches techniques, strengthens mind
By Michael Ronquillo

Hyungs training is a very important part of Tae Kwon Do. It is the ultimate measuring stick to determine a student’s advancement in rank. Just what are hyungs?

Simply put hyungs a series of offensive and defensive movements arranged in set patterns. Students practice these through shadowboxing against imaginary opponents.

Patterns range from basic to advanced ones. Basic patterns serve as introductory stage and are made up of very few strikes and blocks; footwork is not emphasized yet. At this point the student becomes accustomed to Tae Kwon Do. As the student progresses through the ranks, hyungs training becomes more intense. Intricate details such as footwork, posture, and body movement are now focused on. The ultimate goal is to perform the techniques in a fluid and natural motion. This becomes possible through the application and fusion of a student’s external and internal strength.

A person’s external strength is fostered through physical exercises like muscle relaxation, body postures, movements, form, and technique. Internal strength, on the other hand, is derived from mental exercises like concentration, self-discipline, breathing patterns, and controlling one’s state of mind.

A student’s external and internal strength are dependent on each other and make up the essence of hyungs training. Speed, control, rhythm, timing, and technique improve alongside these.

The basic mantra of hyungs training is to teach and enforce correct techniques. Every strike, stance, and block must be performed flawlessly. A technique is useless if proper form is not utilized. Just like a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, Tae Kwon Do practitioners are only as good as the techniques they have mastered--hence the significance of hyungs training.