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Hapkido consists of multiple methods that include these major grouping: Empty hands against empty hands; Empty hand against weapon; Weapon against weapon. These methods are the basic foundation of Hapkido. Hapkido is as diverse as the definitions this ancient art form envelops.

Hap means harmony, Ki represents the life force or universal energy, and Do is the art form and the way. The practice of Hapkido brings forth a harmony and a unique balance to life. The philosophy of Hapkido pertains to creating harmony in life, strength, and coordination. As the student practices Hapkido there is an energy force from the student as well as the opponent’s energy that work together to create harmony. Harmony refers to a flow of movement between the student and the opponent. When harmony exists then strength and coordination can be developed. Coordination is the ability to flow with movements and combined with Hapkido techniques these techniques are enough to bring an opponent to their knees.

Hapkido is designed to combine movements that do not necessarily require physical strength, but an understanding of how to perform the movements. The main techniques include kicking, punching, joint locking, throwing and the use of pressure points. The application of tension to pressure points can bring an opponent down. Joint locking techniques will stabilize or twist the joints to bring an opponent down. Hand striking techniques are used in Hapkido to punch, push, and strike an opponent. Throwing techniques are used against an opponent when the student is approached from behind, head-on, or from the floor. The goal is to throw the opponent away from the student. These techniques do not require an enormous amount of strength in order to lift and throw a man, but it does require an understanding of Hapkido.

 

            In the world of martial arts Hapkido is considered one of the most complete martial arts because Hapkido consists of hundreds of kicks, punches, joint locking, pressure points, and throws. The beauty of Hapkido is that minimal strength that is required to bring an opponent down no matter the size, or gender of the opponent. Hapkido combines a synergy of movement that works with the energy and power of the opponent as well as students. These techniques flow with energy and power that resemble the force of moving water.

 

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