Poomsae Performance Guide
Rhythm & Tempo
Concerning the time that elapses before any given technique is performed while on the same line of a poomsae:
There is a slightly longer pause before a blocking technique
There is a slightly shorter pause before a striking technique
Block → Block:
Longer interval between
Block → Strike:
Shorter interval between
Strike → Block:
Longer interval between
Strike → Strike:
Shorter interval between
When turning from one direction to another it is always the longer interval
There should be a sort of push/pull feeling between defensive and offensive motions on the same poomsae line
The shorter interval doesn’t mean that you rush the timing of the given technique, rather, it’s about the time between one technique and the next
When there are two or more arm moves per count the shorter interval is used regardless of the movement type
As in all things, there are exceptions to the rhythm & tempo guidelines throughout each recognized poomsae.