Frequently Asked Questions

What are hapkido techniques like? Hapkido techniques focus on defending oneself from any type of physical attack. Some techniques are spectacular, sending an opponent flying through the air. Others are small, deft movements that immobilize the aggressor. Ultimately, it is the energy of the attack itself that brings down the attacker by utilizing the unique theories of motion found in hapkido. Increased stamina, flexibility and muscle development occur naturally from training, but hapkido techniques do not depend on strength for effectiveness.

Is hapkido practical for self-defense? Yes. Hapkido is a specifically designed martial art of self defense. Hapkido training teaches you how to defend yourself against strikes coming from various angles and how to free yourself if someone grabs the front or back. In addition to standing situations, hapkido training teaches you how to defend yourself from the ground.

What are the benefits of hapkido training? Performing the circular techniques of hapkido will improve your flexibility. Learning how to defend yourself without using your strength will improve your ability to relax. Hapkido training teaches you to be more alert and capable of handling any sudden or contentious situation.

How can hapkido be effective without emphasizing strength? Hapkido techniques are not designed to depend on muscular strength. The power of hapkido comes from turning your hips and your relaxed posture in which the weight of your body is directed towards your physiologic center in the lower abdomen. You will be amazed to see how powerful you can be when turning your hips and applying the techniques from the center of your body.

Are punching and kicking part of hapkido? Hapkido is not a type of karate, but there are punching and other types of striking along with practical kicking. Defense against kicks are deferred until the students falling ability is inline with the techniques. Kim Moo Hyun, who studied in various temples, created the kicking techniques of hapkido. 

Does hapkido involve weapons training? Yes. Weapon Hapkido Techniques.

Whom is hapkido training suited for? Hapkido is for everyone, women and men both benefit from hapkido training. When hapkido is well executed, age, height and weight are irrelevant.

 How long does it take to achieve black belt status? This depends on you. Because a certain number of practice hours are required to advance from one rank to another, the more you practice, the faster you will earn your black belt. 

What is hapkido class like? The instructor demonstrates and explains hapkido techniques using a senior student. Then each student practices the technique with a partner. One person is the kongyoksa (the one who attacks and receives the hapkido technique), the other person is the makisa (the one who receives the attack and applies the hapkido technique). The makisa practices the technique four times (twice on the right side, twice on the left side) and then he or she becomes the kongyoksa and the other person becomes the makisa. After a few minutes, the instructor demonstrates another technique for students to practice. This pattern continues throughout the class. All classes include mixed hapkido ranks.

Can I attend a class just to watch? Yes, and everyone is encouraged welcome to attend a free class as our guest.

Are there competitive tournaments in hapkido? No. Hapkido is not a martial sport, it is a martial art. The techniques are designed for self defense, not competition. Competitions do not allow most of the techniques practiced in hapkido.

Is the Red River Hapkido affiliated with a hapkido sanctioning organization? Red River Hapkido is affiliated with the United States Korean Martial Arts Federation and the Daehan Kidohwe (hapkido world headquarters) in Seoul, Korea. The federation develops hapkido practice methods, sponsors training seminars, establishes grading standards and registers ranks, including those awarded by the Red River Hapkido. All certification for students and yudanja (black belts) is by USKMAF and dan certificates are also available from the Daehan Kidohwe. Yes, there are a lot of hapkido organizations in Korea and around the world. The Daehan Kidohwe is the oldest and very first hapkido organization and was founded by Choi Young Sul, the founder of hapkido.