What is Hapkido

Hapkido is martial art originated from Korea. Hapkido translates as "the way of coordinated power". Hapkido is a way of physical and mental coordination. Every movement requires the coordination of both the mind and body, and consistent practice is necessary to maintain this coordination.

Hapkido utilizes a wide range of attacks and defenses. Its kicking and punching make it appear like traditional Karate or Taekwondo. The wrist and joint locks look very similar to Aikido. Its many throwing techniques cause it to look like Judo. Grappling and escapes appear similar to Jujutsu. Traditional weapon techniques look similar to Kobudo. However, Hapkido includes all these different techniques in the single art because it is a self-defense martial art.

Techniques practised in hapkido include:

• Joint locks
• Throws
• Kick catches
• Chokes
• Sweeps and take downs
• Kicking and striking
• Circular blocks
• Pressure points and skin grabs
• Falls
• Meditation
• Traditional weapons techniques

Main Hapkido techniques are devided onto:

1. empty hands against empty hands

2. empty hands against armed

3. armed against armed

Every category is devided on offansive and defensive techniques. Techniques are practiced from various situations – standing, sitting, jumping and laying. The combination of mentioned techniques result in a well rounded system of self defense that will prepare you for any situation.

Practicing Hapkido you will gain more than just the ability to defend yourself. There are many positive side effects to Hapkido training. The most notable is good health, which is achieved through the constant training and exercise required to master Hapkido. The discipline and focus required to master the techniques of Hapkido tend to carry over to life outside the dojang and can make a difference in your everyday life.