Hapkido
🇰🇷 (합기도)

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HAPKIDO FACTS

WHAT IS HAPKIDO?

Hapkido is a dynamic Korean martial art based on a system of self defence, through the use of joint locks, grappling and throws combined with more attacking moves (kicks, punches and other strikes).

Hapkido is practised throughout the world and is closely related to the Japanese art of Aikido.

‘Hap’ literally means harmony, unity and coordination. ‘Ki’ is energy or power and ‘Do’ means art or way, so Hapkido translates to ‘The way of coordinated power.

There are 3 theories in Hapkido:

  1. Yu – flowing water. Students use the power of flowing water. They don’t waste energy trying to remove obstacles (e.g. a rock on a mountain) but flow round it. Flowing water adapts to its environment and builds momentum.
  2. Won – circle. The use of natural flowing circular movements for swift inter-changing between techniques and blocking or stopping an opponent’s attack.
  3. Wha – harmony. Considered the most important element of Hapkido training. Continually practicing the techniques so they become second nature – a reflex action where instinct automatically ‘kicks in’. Harmony with your opponent is as important as finding harmony with yourself. Using an opponent’s force to block or redirect the energy in order to defend yourself effectively. It is also vital that students learn to find harmony in their environment and then blend all of these together.

As is often the case with martial arts which have a long history associated to them, there have been a number of sub-styles of Hapkido that have developed over the years including Combat; Jin Jung Kwan; Shinshei; and Sin Moo. Whilst different, these styles all retain common elements of the Hapkido that Choi introduced.

WHAT WILL I LEARN FROM HAPKIDO?

Hapkido is a Martial Art that teaches the full range of defence including kicks, punches, pressure point techniques, throws, joint locks, traditional weapons, free fighting, ki and meditation.

The sport focuses on technique rather than fitness which makes it an ideal activity for beginners.

Hapkido emphasizes defencive moves rather than attack, so more training is given on throws, twists and pressure points.

Like many Martial Arts self-discipline and personal development as as important as phisical fitness in Hapkido.

WHAT ARE THE HAPKIDO BELTS?

The different colour Hapkido belts represent the different levels of progression in the sport. The beginner grade is white belt and goes through to the advanced ‘Dan’ black belt. There can be different grading systems in place depending on the school or particular style of Hapkido, but some of the grades could include:

Beginner Grade: White Belt

Yellow belt

Orange Belt

Green belt

Purple Belt

Blue Belt

Brown Belt

Red Belt

Red & Black Belt

Black & White Belt

Black Belt

WHO CAN TAKE UP HAPKIDO CLASSES?

Children can start from the age of 4 years old, usually when they have developed enough self-control and focus. Hapkido classes focus on technique rather than strength and fitness so anyone can take part regardless of their ability. Adults can be of any gender or experience level when starting Hapkido classes. Those who walk late at night or those who work in isolation can benefit from Hapkido classes as the self-defence aspect helps them feel safer.

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