HAPKIDO OVERVIEW

As such, Hapkido has no forms. The name to the art was given in 1957 after a co-founder added traditional Korean kicking techniques and other punching techniques.

Loosely translated, Hapkido means "the way of coordinating energy" or "the way of coordinated power."

Techniques

The core techniques are derived largely from Aikijujutsu. Moves consist of gentle or forceful throws and joint lock techniques. Most techniques work by unbalancing the attacker and applying pressure to specific places on the body. There are over 700 pressure points used in Hapkido.

The objective in most situations is to get near the opponent for a close strike, lock, or throw.

Hapkido includes techniques in all fighting ranges. Arm and leg joint locks, nerve pressure points, throws, kicks, and other strikes are used.

Many techniques are designed for use in everyday situations such as: seated in a chair, standing in a confined space such as a hallway, reclining in bed, and walking in a crowded building.

Joint locks are used to control an attacker without causing permanent damage. Choking techniques and vital point strikes that can cause severe damage if necessary are used in life-and-death situations.

Basic Principles

While each school is different, the techniques taught cover the following three principles:

• The Non-Resistance or Harmony Principle ("Hwa")
• The Circle Principle ("Won")
• The Water Principle ("Ryu")

The Non-Resistance or Harmony Principle ("Hwa")

The act of remaining relaxed and not directly opposing an opponent's strength/force. Work with an opponent to use their strength and energy to the student's advantage. Push when pulled. Pull when pushed. Go with the flow to conserve energy and overcome much larger attackers.

Example: A student uses an opponent's push by moving in the same direction as the push and using the opponent's forward momentum to throw him. The student doesn't resist or push back.

The Circle Principle ("Won")

Use circular motion. Gain momentum in a technique by using a natural and free-flowing move. The motion is smooth flowing instead of linear or straight.

Example: Redirect a strike by leading it in a circular pattern, adding the attacker's power to the student's.

The Water Principle ("Ryu")

Be soft and adaptable like water. Water does not struggle with anything it encounters. Force is not met with force. Instead, it is directed away. The student doesn't use physical force alone; he attempts to deflect a strike.

Example: In the two-step technique, flow around your opponent and attack from every direction.

Conclusion

Hapkido is a modern martial art that is more self-defense than art. It's techniques are designed for modern situations, and the opponents power and energy is redirected and used to the student's advantage.

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