Pattern Chun Ji – 19 movements
Chun Ji is the white belt level form in the Chang Hon system of patterns. Its purpose is to introduce new students to basic stancing and provide a way to practice building a strong foundation. With a simple series of blocks and punches, new students get the opportunity to develop quick muscle memory for two of the most common stances in martial arts.
As with all patterns and new movements, we encourage you to learn your forms in class, with an instructor. This video series allows you to recall what you learned in class to ensure that you practice correctly at home. There is nuance to every move and pattern, and we want to ensure that you do not develop bad habits.
In the following video, you can practice along with Stevens Family instructors Jack Stevens III, and Jenna Davis. Master Jack Stevens calls out each technique, so you can practice with video assistance, or just listen for cues.
Chun Ji – Purity
At white belt, beginner students are taught the Korean tradition that white belt stands for Purity. What this means is that the student is a blank slate. This can be good and bad. There are no bad habits to overcome. However, many of the movements, stances, and footwork will feel strange. Coordination and balance are being introduced that can be a challenge for students of any age. Eventually, through repetition, these movements feel like second nature. The patterns created in the Chang Hon system are named after important people, places, or historical events in Korean history.
Pattern Synopsis
Chun Ji follows a fairly simple “block, punch, turn” format. You will find similar beginner patterns in nearly all traditional striking arts. The first half of the pattern features all front stances. Fully chambered low blocks provide protection to the lower part of the body (toward the earth/foundation), and are followed by an advancing punch. This repeats in all four directions- north, south, east, and west. The second half of the pattern introduces L stances, and fully chambered outward motion inner forearm blocks. These blocks protect the upper part of the body and head (the sky/heavens), and are followed by an advancing punch.
While much of the focus during this pattern is in developing and reinforcing strong stancing, you will also note the “push-pull” power generated by the non-striking/blocking hand coming back to a ready fist. Additionally, the simple movements allow the beginner to concentrate on breath control.
After the pattern concludes, the left foot returns to ready position.