Name and Terminology
Korean Name: Gunnun Sogi (걷는 서기)
• Gunnun (걷는): Walking
• Sogi (서기): Stance
Description
Walking Stance is one of the most commonly used stances in ITF Taekwon-Do, forming the foundation for both attack and defense. It provides stability while allowing forward and backward mobility. The stance is characterized by a long, forward-facing posture with the body weight evenly distributed.
Dimensions and Weight Distribution
• Length: Approximately 1.5 times the shoulder width, measured from the toes of the front foot to the toes of the rear foot.
• Width: About shoulder width apart.
• Weight Distribution: 50% on each leg.
• Front Foot: Points directly forward.
• Rear Foot: Points slightly outward, no more than 25 degrees.
• Knees: Both slightly bent, with the front knee aligned over the heel.
The front knee must never extend beyond the toes, and the rear leg remains straight to provide forward drive.” — Encyclopedia of Taekwon-Do
Posture Facing
Walking Stance can be executed in:
• Full Facing: Hips and shoulders square toward the opponent, used for forward attacks or blocks.
• Half Facing: Hips and shoulders turned slightly (about 45 degrees) to the side, often used for side blocks or preparing for turning techniques.
Applications
Walking Stance is used extensively for:
• Basic hand techniques such as punches, blocks, and thrusts.
• Shifting between attack and defense with minimal movement.
• Practicing correct hip twist for power generation.
• Forms (tuls), where it appears frequently as a connecting stance between techniques.
Technical Points
• Keep hips and shoulders aligned according to posture facing.
• Maintain vertical spine without leaning.
• Distribute weight evenly for balance and quick movement.
• Apply outward knee tension for stability.
Common Mistakes
• Front knee extending past toes, causing instability.
• Rear foot turning too far outward.
• Incorrect posture facing for the technique being applied.
Variations
While the standard walking stance is forward-facing, it can be adapted to half-facing depending on the blocking or attacking technique, but the length and width remain consistent.