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What is Hapkido?
Hapkido translated: Hap means "coordination," Ki means "power," and Do means
"the way" - in short, "the Way of Coordinated Power."
Hapkido uses diversion or suppression and combines skeletal
joint locks, pressure points, throws, kicks, and the attacker's power against him. Hapkido emphasizes circular motion, non-resistive
movements, and control of the opponent. Although Hapkido contains both outfighting and infighting techniques, the essence
of Hapkido is to gain advantage through technique, avoiding the use of strength against strength. For example, if the attack
is strong, one must receive it gently. If the attack is gentle, one must counter it powerfully. This makes this style suitable
for women, as they are not required to meet an attacker head on. Some of the striking and kicking practice is form-like with
no partner; however, most technique is done with a partner. There is some weapons training for advanced students - which
consists of knife, short bo, middle bo, sword, long bo, cane, and belt.
Sparring is also incorporated into the training. Some Hapkido techniques are unsuitable for use in sparring, as their use would result in injury, even
when protective gear is used.
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