Taekwondo - Parallel Stance

Learning Outcomes

• Develop proper footwork and posture for basic movements.
• Improve balance and stability.
• Lay the foundation for future kicking and stepping techniques.
• Understand the application of the Parallel Stance.

Description Of Activity

Briefly explain the Parallel Stance (Naranhi Sogi) and its importance in Taekwondo.
Discuss how it's used for basic movements, preparing for kicks and strikes, and maintaining balance during transitions.

Parallel Stance (Naranhi Sogi):
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointed straight ahead.
Knees slightly bent and core engaged for stability.
Back straight and shoulders relaxed.

Arm Positions:
Neutral Position (Ready Stance): Fists loosely closed in front of the body, elbows slightly bent with forearms raised approximately parallel to the ground. This position is often used for preparation before punches, blocks, or kicks.

Low Block Position:Fists clenched and held low in front of the hips, palms facing outwards. This position is used for blocking low kicks.

High Block Position:  Fists clenched and raised above the head, palms facing outwards. This position is used for blocking high attacks.

Chambered Position for Kicks:  One arm bent at the elbow with the fist positioned near the opposite hip (chambering arm). The other arm may be raised in a guard position or extended for balance depending on the specific kick.

Individual Practice:
Instruct students to practice the Parallel Stance individually.
Encourage them to focus on proper foot placement, posture, and balance distribution.
Walk around the class observing individual stances, offering corrections and guidance as needed.

Footwork Drills :
Once students have a grasp of the stance, introduce basic footwork drills:
Marching in Place: Students practice lifting their knees high while maintaining the Parallel Stance and switching leg positions (forward with each step).
Side Stepping: Students practice stepping sideways while maintaining the Parallel Stance and keeping their shoulders square.

Partner Exercises:
Divide students into pairs.
One student practices holding the Parallel Stance while the other practices basic kicks or punches from a safe distance, simulating the application of the stance before attacks.
Students can switch roles after a set time (e.g., 30 seconds).

Wrap-Up (5 minutes):
Briefly discuss the importance of continued practice for mastering the Parallel Stance.
Answer any questions students may have.
Remind them of the applications of the Parallel Stance for various techniques.

Additional Tips:
Visual aids like diagrams or pictures of the Parallel Stance can be helpful for reference.
Consider using cones or tape to mark foot placement for beginners.
Create a fun and engaging learning environment where students feel comfortable practicing and improving their technique.

Additional Notes:
The specific arm position used with the Parallel Stance will depend on the intended follow-up technique (punch, block, kick).
Some instructors might introduce variations with arm positions for beginners, focusing on the core stance elements first.

Variations

For younger students, simplify the instructions and focus on achieving a comfortable and stable stance.  
For advanced students, introduce more complex footwork drills like stepping forward/backward while maintaining the stance or transitioning into kicks from the Parallel Stance.

Coaching Tips

Use clear and concise instructions when demonstrating the stance.
Emphasize the importance of even weight distribution on both feet.
Focus on keeping the core engaged for stability.
Encourage students to practice footwork drills with proper form to improve coordination.
Provide positive reinforcement and constructive feedback during partner exercises.

Equipment/Material Required

• Open space large enough for students to practice comfortably.
• Comfortable clothing that allows for movement (optional: Taekwondo uniform).