ITF System

Foundations / Timing

Timing

Timing is not speed. Timing is when the right things happen together. In ITF Taekwon-Do, timing is a foundational skill that determines whether technique works — regardless of strength or athleticism.

What timing actually is

Timing is the coordination of:

  • movement
  • alignment
  • focus
  • power

A technique is well-timed when these elements complete together. If one finishes early or late, the technique degrades.

Timing is synchronization, not speed.

What timing is not

  • Not rushing
  • Not moving faster to hide problems
  • Not hitting as soon as possible
  • Not something added after technique

Fast technique with poor timing is still poor technique.

The ITF timing requirement (plain)

The ITF system consistently requires that:

  • Movement finishes before or at the moment of impact
  • Alignment is complete at impact
  • Focus is already established
  • Power is expressed at the finish, not during travel

This is why correct ITF technique often feels calm rather than frantic.

The timing sequence

A useful way to understand timing is as a simple sequence:

Move → Align → Focus → Deliver → Finish

These steps overlap, but they must resolve in the correct order. Delivering before alignment is finished is the most common timing error.

Why timing fails

Rushing

Speed is often used to hide instability. When rushed, alignment and focus lag behind the technique.

Early power

Applying tension too early disrupts movement and slows transitions. Power belongs at the finish.

Late focus

If the eyes and intent arrive after the body, the technique has no clear target.

Timing in transitions

Most timing problems are actually transition problems. If the body has not settled before the next technique begins, timing is already broken.

This is why timing improves fastest when transitions improve.

Timing in patterns

Patterns test whether timing remains consistent under:

  • direction changes
  • longer sequences
  • fatigue
  • increased complexity

Well-timed patterns feel deliberate. Poorly timed patterns feel rushed or heavy.

Common timing mistakes

Technique lands before stance is finished

Indicates rushing or poor transition control.

Power bleeds through the movement

Indicates early tension instead of finish-based power.

Pauses appear randomly

Often a sign of uncertainty rather than intentional control.

Simple timing checks

Freeze check

After any technique, freeze for 2 seconds. If balance or posture needs correction, timing was off.

Half-speed test

Perform at half speed. If timing collapses, it was being held together by momentum.

Silent finish

Loud landings or stomps often indicate late alignment or early power.

Timing as a foundation

Timing does not belong to advanced training. It belongs to every movement, at every level.

Strong timing makes:

  • power easier
  • balance more reliable
  • focus clearer
  • movement calmer under pressure

Key idea

Good timing makes technique feel inevitable.
Bad timing makes technique feel forced.

Next

Timing works directly with: