ABOUT HAPKIDO
“While learning Hapkido the student acquires numerous skills such as hand , foot and weapons techniques together with spiritual improvements such as positive thinking and self control."
Hapkido is a unique Korean Martial Art. It is not a sport like some forms of Taekwondo, Judo and Karate have become. Traditional Hapkido focuses on self-defence through physical and personal development, as well as self-defence techniques.
The techniques were developed and jealously guarded by the privileged few charged with the protection of the King and the Royal Family, and its secret techniques were not widely taught. Since then the art has been renamed Hapkido and enjoys huge popularity throughout Korea and many countries in the Western World.
The literal translation of Hapkido is "The art (or way) of co-ordinated power."
The aims of the Hapkido practitioner are threefold:
- To obtain healthy mind and body, (mental and physical strength), from positive thought and physical training.
- To develop good manners in all our dealings and general daily life.
- To develop the ability and willingness to contribute to the happiness and well being of:
- One's family
- One's friends and neighbours
- One's Country
While learning Hapkido the student acquires numerous skills such as hand, foot and weapons techniques together with personal improvements such as positive thinking and self-control. Hapkido is not limited to punching and kicking like many martial arts. It is a complete means of self-defence and incorporates many techniques that allow self-defence with minimum violence and complete control of the opponent. These techniques include joint locks, pressure points, takedowns and restraints as well as the punching and kicking.
From the point of view of the ordinary person Hapkido may appear to be only self-defence, however the art consists of procedures for both attack and defence. Hapkido is a suitable means of fitness and self defence for men & women of all ages, from the young child to a retiree. If the student of Hapkido chooses to use the attack skills he/she will quickly overwhelm their opponent.
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