Martial Arts Taught

---

Hapkido is a Korean martial art that emphasizes self-defense, incorporating a wide range of techniques, including strikes, joint locks, throws, and traditional weapons. It combines elements from several martial arts, drawing from both Korean and Japanese traditions, with an emphasis on using an opponent's force against them.

Key Characteristics of Hapkido:

1. Joint Locks and Throws: Hapkido is well-known for its joint locks, which are designed to control or incapacitate an opponent by targeting joints such as the wrist, elbow, shoulder, knee, and ankle. Throws and takedowns are also commonly used to off-balance and neutralize attackers.

2. Strikes and Kicks: The art includes a comprehensive array of striking techniques, including punches, kicks, and knee strikes. Hapkido practitioners learn a variety of kicks, ranging from low kicks aimed at an opponent's legs to high, jumping kicks.

3. Circular Motion: A core principle of Hapkido is the use of circular movements. This allows practitioners to redirect an opponent's force, making it easier to apply joint locks, throws, or strikes. Circular motions are also used to evade attacks and maintain a fluid, continuous defense.

4. Non-Resistance: Hapkido emphasizes the principle of "non-resistance" or "flowing with the force." This means that instead of meeting an opponent’s attack with direct force, a practitioner redirects the attacker's energy to create an opportunity for counter-techniques.

5. Weapons Training: Traditional Hapkido often includes training with weapons such as the cane (joong bong), short stick (dan bong), knife (kal), and sword (gum). Practitioners learn both offensive and defensive techniques using these weapons.

6. Philosophy and Self-Defense: Hapkido is not just a physical discipline but also involves a philosophical component that teaches respect, discipline, and the responsible use of martial skills. It is often practiced for self-defense, with an emphasis on avoiding conflict and only using force when absolutely necessary.

Training and Curriculum:

Hapkido training is usually very comprehensive, covering:

- Basic Techniques: Strikes, blocks, and evasion.

- Joint Locks and Grappling: Techniques to immobilize or control an opponent.

- Throws and Falls: Methods for safely executing throws and how to fall correctly to avoid injury.

- Kicking Techniques: A wide range of kicks, often more varied than in other martial arts.

- Weapons: Training in traditional Korean weapons.

- Self-Defense Scenarios: Practical applications of techniques in self-defense situations.

History and Development:

Hapkido was developed in the mid-20th century in Korea, drawing on traditional Korean martial arts and the influence of Japanese Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, which was brought to Korea by Choi Yong-Sool after his return from Japan. Over time, different masters developed their own schools and interpretations of the art, leading to a variety of styles within Hapkido, but all maintaining the core principles of joint manipulation, striking, and circular motion.

Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art that combines elements of traditional Korean fighting techniques with influences from Chinese and Japanese martial arts. It is primarily known for its emphasis on striking techniques, including powerful kicks, punches, and open-hand strikes. Tang Soo Do also incorporates blocks, joint locks, and forms (known as *hyung*), which are choreographed patterns of movements meant to simulate combat scenarios.

The philosophy of Tang Soo Do focuses on the development of character, respect, discipline, and self-control, as well as physical fitness. Training often includes rigorous conditioning exercises, sparring, and self-defense techniques. While it shares similarities with other martial arts like Taekwondo, Tang Soo Do retains a more traditional approach, often emphasizing the art form's cultural heritage.

Tang Soo Do practitioners typically wear a *dobok* (uniform) with a belt that indicates their rank, which progresses through various colored belts before reaching black belt levels. The art has a strong emphasis on the "Do" or "Way," signifying a path of personal growth and lifelong learning. 

Overall, Tang Soo Do is not just a system of self-defense but also a way to cultivate a balanced mind, body, and spirit.

Budo Taijutsu is a comprehensive martial art derived from 9 ancient Japanese combat schools. Embedded within each of these 9 ryu (or schools) are principles of movement and strategy that allow a practitioner to consistently find the place of effortless freedom in the midst of conflict.

The Bujinkan system, which was founded by Masaaki Hatsumi. The term "taijutsu" translates to "body technique" or "body art," emphasizing the use of natural body movements, leverage, and biomechanics to overcome opponents.

Bujinkan Taijutsu encompasses techniques from several ancient martial arts, including striking, grappling, joint locks, throws, and ground fighting. It focuses on using the whole body in a fluid and adaptable manner, allowing practitioners to defend against armed and unarmed opponents. The art places a strong emphasis on natural movement, balance, and timing, with an aim to control an opponent rather than relying solely on brute force.

Training in Bujinkan Taijutsu also includes an understanding of strategy, awareness, and the ability to respond effectively to a wide range of threats.

Small Circle Jujitsu is a modern martial art that focuses on leveraging biomechanics and efficiency to control an opponent, regardless of size or strength. Developed by Wally Jay in the mid-20th century, it emphasizes precise movements, joint locks, pressure points, and the use of small, circular motions to create leverage. Unlike some other forms of jujitsu, which rely on larger, more forceful movements, Small Circle Jujitsu is designed to be quick and efficient, making it effective for self-defense. Practitioners learn to manipulate an opponent's balance and use their energy against them, often turning minimal effort into maximum impact. This style is particularly well-suited for individuals of smaller stature or those who prefer a more strategic approach to martial arts.