Hapkido

Hapkido is a Korean martial art. Its name means literally “The way of coordination and power.” Hapkido is a complete martial art in that it consists of: dynamic striking and kicking techniques, very similar to Tae Kwon Do, both hard and soft style deflection techniques, throws, takedowns, ground-fighting, and extensive joint locking techniques.

The Meaning of Hapkido

Hapkido is the Korean martial arts that uses kicks, strikes, throws, and join locks. It is a very versatile style of combat.

• Hap – means “coordinated” or “joining”
• Ki – means internal energy, spirit, strength, or power
• Do – means “way’ or “art”

It is most often translated as “the way of coordinated power”.

The Three Principles of Hapkido

Nonresistance (Hwa) – Harmony

Circle principle (Won) – Circle

The Water/Flexible principle (Yu) – Flow

Hapkido emphasizes circular motion and control of the opponent. The essence of Hapkido is to gain advantage through technique, avoiding the use of strength against strength. Thus a “weaker” person is able to defend him/herself against a “stronger” attacker