What is Hapkido ?
“The Art or Way of Coordinated Power.”
“Hapkido is not only a self-defense but also an art form; the art is the eventual ability to control the mind, spirit and body toward a more coordinated being.”
Hap Ki Do may be defined as an art that is both, internal and external, hard and soft, a complete art for self defense. It consists of dynamic offensive and defensive techniques using all parts of the body to their maximum advantage.
Hapkido Practice:
Hapkido practice is divided into-
- Striking (drilling punches, strikes and kicks)
- Ground work (using Hapkido techniques on the ground, not a sport aspect)
- Joint work (the learning of joint locking and manipulation techniques)
- Pressure points (proper use and location of these points to assist in techniques)
- Body movement (the proper way to move and flow while dealing with an opponent to utilize their energy against them)
- Tan Jan breathing (breathing techniques)
- Weapons (traditional Hapkido weapons and common objects for self defense)
- Sparring (for development of movement, timing, speed, power and technique)
Advanced belts-
- Acupressure
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
- Advanced weapons
Hapkido as Self-defense:
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Hapkido is one of the most dynamic of all the martial arts. A trained Hapkidoist is able to coordinate mind and body perfectly, thereby allowing the unleashing of tremendous physical power at will. Therefore, it is not the possession of great physical strength that makes a strong Hapkidoist; rather it is the ability to coordinate mind and body. Upon developing this ability, even the smallest person finds that he or she has within himself or herself the power to deliver a devastating blow to any would-be attacker, destroy joints and limbs easily, control and manipulate any attacker regardless of their or your size..
The Benefits of Hapkido as a Sport For All:
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In our everyday lives we often forget the value of exercise to both our physical and mental health. The practice of Hapkido tones the body, develops coordination, quickens reflexes, and builds stamina. At the same time the constant use and stretching of the joints helps build joint strength and increased resilience in them.
Also, the serious practice of Hapkido develops composure, a clearer thought process, deeper insight into one’s mental capabilities, and more self-confidence. In this, Hapkido is not an end, but a means to an end. It is an activity in which advancing age is not a hindrance. Rather it encourages proficiency in the keen coordination of mind and body.
For the most serious of Hapkido practitioners, Hapkido is a way of life, the Do. It becomes who they are and drives them in life, their morals, their directions in life, dealings with other people and most important of all honor, integrity, morality, discipline and respect all within one’s self.
“It is the principle that is to be mastered, not just the mere mechanical motions, before one can develop an effective system of self-defense.”