The Bow
Bowing is an external symbol of internal respect. This video demonstrates the bowing from standing and seated positions. It also demonstrates how we salute the flags, showing respect for our country and a "Hap Ki" respect to our teachers.
Kneeling Meditation
This video demonstrates how to kneel into meditation position.
This video shows you the basic stances for fighting, defence and the breathing stance position. In defence, showing your palms to someone is an international symbol of yielding, you do this whilst you negotiate. Palms up can also allow you to block and strike quickly. Behind these passive palms however you must manage distance and be in a mental state of readiness. Once the fists come up, the fight is more than likely to be on so it's important to have an understanding of your outward behaviour in a conflict situation.
Breathing Exercises
This video demonstrates the four basic breathing exercises of Hapkido. These are done from a traditional horse riding type stance and the mind must be empty with only a focus on the breathing. Hands are Live! The breathing starts in through the nose at a four second count together with the first motion of the exercise and breathing out through the mouth at a four second count with the second part of the exercise. Repeat this breathing with all four exercises to the front, low, side and high.
Basic Footwork
Learn the basic footwork movement of stepping. As you progress these will be combined with attacks and defence.
Learn the basic footwork movement of shuffling. As you progress these will be combined with attacks and defence.
Learn the basic footwork movement of 90 and 180 degree turning. As you progress these will be combined with attacks and defence.
Clinch Positions
Once you look to close the distance in a fight, this video will break down the different clinch positions with and without uniform/clothing. Take note of the positions of the hands, one must look to control both the neck and the arm/s of an opponent. As you progress you will be taught throws, takedowns and submissions from these positions.
Distance Management
If you manage the distance, you manage the damage. Be aware of the three foot rule which is the realistic distance an empty hand opponent can do you harm, more of this on our self defence page. As you progress you will build the formula you need for each area of distance in combat.