Most people think the trend starts when the chart moves.

It doesn't.
The real move usually begins when liquidity gets taken.
Markets are designed to seek liquidity, stops above highs, below lows, and around obvious support and resistance. That's where the largest pool of orders exists.
Price doesn't move randomly. It moves where orders are waiting.
The next time you see a sudden wick before a breakout, don't call it manipulation.
Call it what it is: liquidity being collected.