The importance of POOMSAE (patterns)

Poomsae (patterns) are a pre-arranged set of movements gradually becoming more complex the more you learn. There is normally ONE poomsae to learn per belt in preparation for your next promotional test. Each poomsae should be practiced by mentally picturing imaginary opponents attacking from all sides.
It is important to practice and improve all poomsae not just the one you are concentrating on for your next grade. Students should practice one poomsae after another with only the breathing junbi exercises in-between. Then the student will truly understand the first steps of poomsae.
Poomsae are truly a way of understanding and practicing every aspect of your martial art; basic technique, breathing control, balance, co-ordination and concentration. The mind and body can work together in striving for perfection of technique that can never be achieved. Taekwondo is meaningless without poomsae.