FAQ

Sometimes not all that much; there has been a LOT of cross-pollinization. Virtually everyone in Korea gets some Taekwondo training (it's their national sport - ever know an American boy who'd NEVER played baseball?). The specialty jumping spinning kicks of Hapkido proved very useful for demonstration and breaking purposes and got adopted into Taekwondo. Any Hosinsool (self-defense) techniques you see in Taekwondo got adopted from out of Hapkido. Any HKDists that want to spar tend to do so under TKD rules and adapt their techniques accordingly. But in general if its sport oriented, it's Taekwondo; and if it's self-defense oriented, it's Hapkido.

As in Aikido, the attacker is encouraged to over-commit their attack. The attack is received with minimal resistance, it is guided past the target and then the defender’s own force is added to it. The result is to unbalance and throw the opponent. However, opponents do not always attack with large movements. Often short jabs and kicks are delivered with such rapidity that it is very difficult to lead the opponent’s force. In these situations, the close quarter blocking and striking techniques of Hapkido give the Hapkidoist knowledge of how to counter and overcome such attacks.

Many of the joint locks and throws of Hapkido are very similar to those of Jujitsu. Painful twisting of the joints and tendons along with the application of painful pressure to vital points, combined with a thorough knowledge of human anatomy help to control any opponent regardless of size or strength. These techniques are fine for close quarter attacks, however because Jujitsu practitioners do not practice their techniques against proficient kickers or punchers, they are vulnerable to such long range attacks. Hapkidoists practice kicks and punches to a high degree of proficiency, thus the familiarity gained through practicing the techniques helps in defending against them.

Throwing plays an important role in Hapkido. The basic principles of judo are used in Hapkido, that is, moving your opponent’s centre of balance to a vulnerable position and using your leg or body to topple the opponent. As well, Hapkido uses strikes or pressure points to manoeuvre the opponent with less use of strength.

From the age of 6, both men and women can train Hapkido. The adaptive power of the Hapkido united with the circular movements in perfect harmony will cause the practitioner to fully utilize his opponent's strength against himself without let him having a chance to react. The Hapkido still as therapy, develops, disciplines, liberates and balances the mind and body, aiming to show us the way to a better understanding of the understanding of the universe and of itself. On a daily basis, it helps in the education of its children, in the development of adolescents, leaving the mind open to businessmen and inhibits the tendency to drugs, alcoholism, shyness and aggression.

The philosophy of Hapkido is centered around four principles: - Honesty and Moral Character - Loyalty to Parents and Country - Bravery in Battles - Protect your Family and Community Because of that we pledge to obey the rules of the association and to conduct ouselves in accordance with the true spirit of martial arts: We pledge to be loyal to our country and to promote the development of a better society. We pledge to work together with all classes of people without regard to politics, race or religion. We pledge to promote international goodwill and strive for world peace through the practice of martial arts.

Obey instructors and senior classmates. “Yes sir” or “Yes ma’am” are the proper responses to your instructor’s commands. Don not disturb classmates while they practice. Never try to do something you haven’t been taught. Never ask to be taught new techniques. Wait for your instructor to teach you. Never teach in or out of school if you aren’t qualified and don’t have permission. If you want to practice at another Hapkido school, ask permission from your instructor first. Never use martial arts training needlessly. Use it only for good. “With great power comes great responsibility.” Be on time for class. Attend class regularly. If you arrive late, ask permission to join class. If you must leave early, ask permission and don’t forget to bow yourself out. Never wear shoes in the training area. When adjusting your uniform, face away from the flag and kneel on your right knee. Sit properly with your feet crossed or tucked under you. Do not slouch or lean against the walls. Concentrate on your training. Never do anything to obstruct your own or another's learning. Practice to your full potential. Push yourself to the limits of your endurance, energy and concentration. Keep a strong mind. Don’t let doubts and fears overshadow you. Also don’t show your weariness; it is contagious and will quickly contaminate your classmates. Always persevere and have patience! Remember, we need more practice!

I will develop myself in a positive manner and avoid anything that would reduce my mental growth or physical health. I will develop self-discipline in order to bring out the best in myself and others. I will use what I learn in class constructively and defensively, to help myself and others, and never be abusive or offensive.