Essence of Ho-Am TaeKwonDo and its 5 principles by Gretchen Jenkins

Essence of Ho-Am TaeKwonDo and its 5 principles
By Gretchen Jenkins (Johnson's TaeKwonDo & Leadership Academy student)

The Essence of Ho-Am TaeKwonDo is the foundation of Ho-Am TaeKwonDo and makes this style unique. It is based on 5 principals, Balanced Posture Alignment, Extended Plane Dynamic Force, CAT Movements, Staged Flow Transition, and Mindfulness Living and Training.

The first of these principals, Balanced Posture Alignment, encompasses and defines the relationship, at a specific point in time, of the joints, long bones and spine in order to effectively deliver proper Ho-Am TaeKwonDo techniques. This principal also allows the techniques to be delivered safely while allowing maximum weight transfer with minimal movement.

The second principal, Extended Plane Dynamic Force, is the definition of the characteristic straight lines of movement that create the force seen in the foot and hand techniques of the Ho-Am style. This principal is based on well researched biodynamic elements which accommodate the natural movement of the human structure for the safe and effective generation of force.

CAT or Controlled Acceleration and Timing is the principal upon which the flow of movement unique to The Ho-Am style, allowing for tempo change at crucial moments, is based. It involves the timing of the hands and feet to effect the artistic transition in tempo. CAT movements are also critical for safety and effectiveness.

Staged-Flow Transition has three components. It is the action that allows for the smooth transfer of weight and power during each technique. The first stage or component is the chambering or active stage which occurs during the first half of the movement. The second portion is the midpoint. This is the point where the student is fully chambered and relaxed with potential energy at its greatest. The last stage is release of kinetic energy and weight shift to finish executing the technique. There is no pause between the stages allowing for a smooth flowing result.

The final principal is Mindfulness Living and Training. This is about being in the present and paying attention on purpose and with purpose. Living every day in the present and on purpose creates meaningful experiences that enhance our lives and the lives of those around us. This awareness allows for a truer perception of what is really going on around us. This Mindfulness can be practiced anywhere and takes practiced in order to achieve proficiency at being mindful. Once proficient, mindfulness can occur during any activity, anywhere, any day and at any time.

These principals are the foundation of Ho-Am TaeKwonDo. They are meant to keep the student safe while creating a powerful, graceful and well rounded person that has balance of mind and body. These principals lead from student to TaeKwonDo artist.