Hapkido

Hapkido is a Korean martial art translated as "the way of coordinated energy." Choi Yong Sul (1904-1986) established the art of Hapkido in 1951 and its roots are linked to a Japanese martial art called Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu under Takeda Sokaku (1859-1943).

Hapkido is an eclectic martial art and is designed strictly for self-defense. Hapkido is a practical and comprehensive street style self-defense system formulated for every day situations. Hapkido emphasizes circular motion and non-resisting movements to control and restrain an opponent. Practitioners seek to gain advantage through footwork and body positioning to employ leverage. They rely on technique rather than strength against strength.

Hapkido utilizes hands, elbows, knees and kicks for striking as well as joint locks, throws and grappling techniques. It also employs knife, stick and belt techniques. Hapkido is widely accepted by the military for its defensive techniques against knife and gun assaults and law enforcement agencies for its control and restraint techniques.