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Showing posts from November, 2025

Poomsae Himchari: The Powerful Challenge (Moves 1-16)

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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...

An Overview of Five Essential Grips in Stick Fighting for Self-defence

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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 ...