The History of Hapkido

Techniques of self defence and the defence of one's family name, religion, nation or culture is a basic human instinct for the purposes of propagation. The creation of techniques and strategies in a form or pattern then follow in order to preserve the style for subsequent generations.

A method of self defence may also adapt and change with time, correlating with the changes that occur in a society. This exists in every society, country or nation. One cannot isolate Hapkido, or any other martial art, and specify exactly from where it derives. To do so would be simplistic and overlooks the thousands of years of combat history in a society.

Hapkido is an effective means of self defense used in a situation when one cannot mediate conflict without violence, and force is required. The style encompasses techniques that utilize the whole body, including joint locks, punching, kicking, grappling, throwing, and attack of pressure points. On the other side of the fighting aspect of Hapkido is healing through Oriental medicine. By knowing both, one's knowledge of Hapkido is complete.

Hapkido is the way of harmonious energy. The essence of Hapkido lies in the following: circle, flow and harmony. Each technique is executed in a fluid and circular motion, in which the energy of the opponent is in harmony with the practitioner. A single technique flows flawlessly into the next. Unlike a knot, one technique should not leave you in a situation where there is no possibility to continue an attack or defence.

The only true way to learn Hapkido is through actually practicing it; it's flavour cannot be tasted from reading books.