Hapkido

There is still ongoing debate surrounding the origins of Hapkido but many believe it was developed by Choi Yong Sul in Korea towards the end of the 1940s, having studied a very similar discipline in Japan for 30 years.

As a student of Hapkido you can expect to learn many different kicks and punches as well as some very effective joint locks, pressure points, throws, chokes and take downs.

Literally translated, Hapkido means the way (do) of power (ki) and coordination (hap), and is a style based on three principles: water, circular motion and non-resistance. Despite the often close physical contact of Hapkido, it is not necessarily a style that relies on strength to overpower an opponent. Instead Hapkido-ists use intelligence, skill, footwork and body positioning to gain leverage and control. Much like a stream will flow around an obstacle such as a rock, the principles of Hapkido teach the student to flow around or through their opponent’s attack, all the while manipulating the opponent’s power to their own advantage.

In addition to learning new physical skills, the well-rounded nature of Hapkido enables students to also gain strength, speed, agility, flexibility, coordination, discipline, leadership, respect and self-confidence.

Eric Nerland and Emma Lynds are resident Hapkido experts at Elements Academy and have over 20 years of experience between them. If you are interested in taking part in one of their classes please contact us for further details.