Journal Entry 4: Kibon Form 2 and Taegeuk Form 1

This week I worked on the second form under the Kibon group and the first form under the Taegeuk group. Kibon form 2 (Kibon 2) is very similar to Kibon 1 in that it has the same basic I-shape form, but differs in that it starts with a middle section outer block with the left arm, followed by a front snap kick, and immediately follows with a straight right middle punch. This sequence is repeated after turning around 180 degrees with the opposite hands and feet. Kibon 2, as in Kibon 1, then has a sequence of three forward stances and straight middle punches with both the right and left hands. The beginning sequence is repeated here going both directions. The sequence of three forward stances and straight punches is repeated back to the starting position. 

Since I had Kibon 1 down pretty well from the week before, I was able to learn Kibon 2 pretty quickly. The first form under the Taegeuk was a different story. Taegeuk 1 starts in the ready position and moves into a walking stance to the left while executing a low block with the left hand. A step forward with the right foot into another walking stance with a right straight middle punch comes next. This sequence is repeated after a 180 degree turn to the right, back the other way. That sequence is followed by a 90 degree turn to the left into left forward stance and immediately followed, from the same position, by a straight right middle punch. Next, I stepped to the right 90 degrees with the right foot, in a right forward walking stance, and executed an inside middle block with the left arm. I then stepped forward with the left foot, while executing straight right middle section punch. After another 180 degree turn, this time to the left, the sequence is repeated the other way and with the opposite hands. Next a 90 degree turn to the right into a right forward stance and executing a low block with the right arm, followed immediately, from the same position, by a left straight middle punch. Next, a 90 degree turn to the left, into a left forward walking stance, while executing a high block with the left arm. Keeping the left foot planted execute a front snap kick with the right foot coming down into a right front walking stance and executing a straight right middle punch. Turn 180 degrees to the right and repeat the sequence the other way with the opposite hands and feet. Step to the right with the left foot into a left forward stance and execute a low block with the left arm. Step forward with the right foot into a right front forward stance and execute a straight right middle punch and return to the ready position. 

I have really enjoyed learning these techniques. Although I'm nowhere near ready to engage in any type of kyorugi (sparring) with an opponent yet. After each workout, I felt relaxed and energized all at the same time, it was kind of weird sensation. I am already beginning to feel in better control of my body. My kicks feel stronger and easier, and my punches feel straighter and with more snap. I can only imagine what I will feel like when this project is completed.