Formosa: Soulistic Tuina x Martial Artist

There is a common, often uninformed, critique leveled against modern Taekwondo: that it is a purely sport-focused art, lacking the full-range combat techniques necessary for real-world self-defense. This claim suggests an over-reliance on dynamic, long-range kicking, neglecting the brutal efficiency of close-quarters fighting. However, this critique fundamentally misses the point of the Poomsae (formal exercises). The Poomsae are not just sequences for tournament scoring; they are a historical and comprehensive curriculum of combat principles. The fault lies not with the art of Taekwondo itself, but with the lack of focus on the close-range applications often found hidden within the forms. The mere existence of the Elbow Strike and the Knee Strike  within the basic Taegeuk forms—designed for beginner students—serves as undeniable proof that Taekwondo is, and always has been, an all-round martial art prepared for any range of combat. These strikes demonstrate that Taekwondo contai...

 We currently have two training points : Emmbrook Village Hall 🗓 Wednesdays, 6:00–7:00pm 💰 Fee: £15 per person 👨‍👩‍👧 Special: One adult + one child (under 18) = £15 total 🎄 17/12 will be our last session of the year , with a special Promotion Class. Easthampstead Works 🗓 Sundays, 4:30–5:30pm 💰 Fee: £10 per person ⚙️ Equipment rental: £5 per person ✨ Updates Our Carrd page has been refreshed — check it out for the latest info 📝 https://formosakickboxing.carrd.co/ In March , we’ll have our first Taeguk 1–3 checking . The following article is for practice purposes , to help everyone prepare and feel confident with the forms:  https://xiwenyuan.blogspot.com/2023/01/blog-post_26.html ✨ I’ll be happy to join the promotion event and help direct the performance show — looking forward to celebrating everyone’s progress together!

1. Eight Basic Strikes (劈法八勢) – Movements and Rhythm The eight strikes are broken down into four sets, emphasizing learning the first four before the latter four: A. First Four Strikes (1-4) Movements 1 & 2: Vertical downward strikes (up and down). Movements 3 & 4: Diagonal strikes, slashing diagonally upward (slash and diagonal upward strike). Practice Focus: Do not try to perform the entire motion initially. Only practice the decomposition of movements 1-4. B. Latter Four Strikes (5-8) Movements 5 & 6: Horizontal strikes (lateral slashing). Movements 7 & 8: Pull and Select/Turn (Likely a pulling motion leading to a turn or spin/sweep). C. Overall Practice and Power Application Points Initial Stage: Release power (洩勁) and stretch loosely (movements 1-4). Intermediate Stage: Gradually apply force. Final Requirement: Rely on the rotation of the body to channel power starting from the soles of the feet. 2. Rapid Hand Exchange (極速換手) – Movement Decomposition and...

The Kukkiwon's Himchari poomsae (meaning "strength") symbolizes "A Powerful Challenge"—strength achieved through the accomplishment of a difficult challenge. The form’s flow and floor pattern are intended to symbolize a sprout stretching skyward in its growth, emphasizing dynamic power, verticality, and relentless progression. This article details the first 16 movements, establishing the poomsae's theme of aggressive dynamism, complex transitions, and close-quarters control. 1. Up the Stem: The Opening Sequence and Grappling (Moves 1-3) The form begins from the joonbee spot, facing GA (north), moving up the core stem of the floor pattern. The opening posture is the Covered Fist Joonbee , executed over an 8-count, setting a tone of deep focus and readiness. Move 1: Stepping the right foot back into a Left Walking Stance , the practitioner executes a Left Knifehand Inward Block . Crucially, the blocking hand is left in position, immediately followed by a...

Effective stick fighting relies on mastering several hand positions, each granting a distinct advantage in control, power, or reach. Here are five fundamental grips used when wielding a cane or walking stick: 1. The One Hand Grip This is the most natural and common position for everyday carry. While appearing casual, it is highly functional for self-defense applications. This grip is essential for techniques that require speed and agility, and it is highly effective for generating force through methods such as fist loading and quick, whip-like wrist snapping strikes. 2. The High Point Grip The High Point Grip is a fundamental two-handed position used for balanced offensive and defensive work. To assume this grip: Your hands are placed relatively high on the stick. One hand faces palm up . The other hand faces palm down . Both of your elbows are held slightly bent . This opposing hand orientation provides excellent control and stability for blocking and powerful striking. 3. The Mid ...

We’re excited to share some new developments in our martial arts community! Whether you're just starting out or aiming for elite competition, there’s something for everyone this season. 🌱 New Program Highlights Toddler Martial Arts Class (Ages 3–5) A playful and safe introduction to movement, coordination, and martial arts basics for our youngest members. 🕵️ Bartitsu Workshop – Free of Charge Explore the Victorian-era self-defence system combining boxing, jujitsu, cane fighting, and savate. Open to all curious minds—no fee required! 🥇 Savate Elite Program Designed for students interested in competition-level training. Focused on technique, strategy, and conditioning for future champions. ⚫ Taekwondo Black Belt Program Advanced poomsae training and progression support for students working toward their black belt. Includes exam preparation and performance refinement. 🗓️ Sunday General Training – Rotating Schedule Time: 16:30–17:30 Location: Easthampstead Works, ...