What is Hapkido?
Hapkido is a discipline of coordination, a way of strengthening the
mind and body, of fully the individuals physical and mental powers so that he or she will emerge as a more fully integrated
human being.
The word in fact means; Method or Way (DO) for
the coordination Harmony (HAP)of mental Energy or spirit (KI). One should always try to avoid violence, but if someone grabs
you, attempt to strike you, or physically assault you in any way, it has escalated beyond words, and you are left with the
only option which is to defend.
The Korean Art of Self Defense, Hapkido is considered a "soft"
style of Martial Art, as opposed to "hard" styles that practice the use of force against force, making the outcome
a simple matter of size and strength. The Hapkido practitioner diverts or suppresses an attacker's flow of energy peacefully,
this diversion allows him to use the attackers power against himself leading to the attackers defeat. Through the use of pressure
on certain skeletal joint and pressure points, very little strength is needed to overcome an opponent.
Hap Ki Do not only redirects the attack, but turns it back against the attacker
and follows through with offensive techniques which may control his violence or render him incapable of further antagonistic
action. The Hapkido practitioner is in complete control of the confrontation defusing the aggression without the need for
uncontrolled damage as seen in many "hard" styles.
Hap
Ki Do provides complete physical conditioning which improves balance, posture, flexibility, timing, quickness muscle tone,
joint strength and most importanly, confidence through physical and mental discipline.
The immediate aim of Hapkido is of course the welfare of the one practicing it. Not only will skills in self-defense
be attained, but more importantly will be the focus on an individuals character development. A well rounded personality can
be realized only if the spirit is right. Courtesy, Respect, Modesty, Loyalty, Generosity, and Dedication are not only the
source, but also the reward of Hapkido.
