PERSPECTIVE
The Prince Rupert’s drop paradigm in sports:
GiCheon’s YeokGeun
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Department of Informatics, Ionian University, Greece
Submission date: 2025-02-21
Final revision date: 2025-09-26
Acceptance date: 2025-11-02
Publication date: 2026-03-31
TRENDS in Sport Sciences 2026;33(1)
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ABSTRACT
The Prince Rupert’s drop, renowned for its unique interplay
of tensile and compressive forces, serves as a metaphor for
the biomechanical and physiological adaptations promoted by
GiCheon practice of YeokGeun. As a cornerstone of GiCheon −
a Korean discipline emphasizing the harmonization of mind
and body through ki cultivation − YeokGeun focuses on extreme
isometric joint-locking exercises. These exercises develop
resilience, strength, and adaptability by transforming the
musculoskeletal system through targeted neuromuscular,
structural, and biochemical adaptations. While deeply
rooted in traditional Korean health and martial systems, this
work acknowledges that empirical validation of such holistic
paradigms presents substantial methodological challenges. The
manuscript proposes potential avenues for systematic study of
physiological and biomechanical impact of YeokGeun, aiming
to bridge conceptual insight and quantifiable research. The
emphasis the practice places on balance and precision mirrors
the capacity of the Prince Rupert’s drop to withstand stress
and highlights its role in enhancing athletic performance,
injury prevention, and overall well-being. This paradigm
bridges traditional Korean health systems with modern sports
science, offering a holistic framework for fostering long-term
physical and cognitive resilience. Key areas of focus include
structural integrity, metabolic efficiency, and the application of
biomechanical models like tensegrity to refine energy transfer
across the kinetic chain. GiCheon method of YeokGeun emerges
as a powerful tool for both athletes and individuals seeking
holistic physical and mental development.