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Punches & Thrusts (Jirugi / Tulgi)
In patterns, punches and thrusts are a timing test: step + hip + finish should arrive together without extra tension.
What to prioritize in patterns
- Arrival timing: feet and hands finish together (no “catch up”).
- Height discipline: low/middle/high are definitions.
- Finish stability: you should be able to stop and hold without leaning.
Shortcut: If the punch looks strong but you can’t freeze the finish, the structure is wrong.
Reference table
| ITF Technique Name | Tool | Motion | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Najunde Jirugi | Fist | Straight | Low |
| Kaunde Jirugi (Baro / Bandae) | Fist | Straight | Middle |
| Nopunde Jirugi | Fist | Straight | High |
| Dwit Joomuk Jirugi (Upset) | Fist | Vertical | Middle |
| Sewo Joomuk Jirugi (Rising) | Fist | Vertical | High |
| Sonkut Tulgi | Fingertips | Linear | Middle / High |
| Sonkal Tulgi | Spearhand | Linear | Middle |
| Dwit Joomuk Jirugi (Upset) | Fist | Vertical (upward from below) | Middle |
| Sewo Joomuk Jirugi (Rising) | Fist | Vertical (centerline) | High |
Note: Some techniques appear with additional motion detail. Treat that as part of the “motion” definition when the pattern specifies it.
Common pattern errors
- Hand “chasing” the step: feet land, then the punch arrives late.
- Shoulders doing the work: the punch becomes an upper-body shove instead of a connected action.
- Overextension: reaching past your stable line to “look longer,” losing posture.
Practice drill
Freeze on finish
Do single-step punches. Stop at the finish and hold 2 seconds. If the finish wobbles, reduce speed and fix stance and alignment.
Step-hand sync
Go slow enough that step + punch land together every rep. Increase speed only when timing stays consistent.