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en Espaņol
Hapkido can be translated literally as
"the way of coordinated power." Each hanja or Chinese character can be translated as follows:
- Hap - unification, coordination, summation
- Ki - energy of nature
- Do - way, path
An in depth explanation of Hapkido might fill
up volumes but we present here the purpose and training principle
of Hapkido.
Hapkido aims to harmonize with earth, heaven,
and nature. It is a study in enhancement of internal and external
power. The character of this power can be found in coordination
and harmonization. It follows these principles for defense
of oneself and others. It cultivates a sound character, healthy
body, and the ability to protect oneself in any encounter.
In training it develops the bones and muscles
externally and gathers ki internally, developing a body capable
of soft and fluid defenses coupled with devastating attacks.
Its techniques encompass the point to the circle (range of
linear and circular techniques), synthesis of hardness ad
softness (principle of um and yang) that allows for idea transition
between defensive and offensive techniques. In addition, knowledge
and utilization of pressure points and joints greatly enhances
the self-defense techniques, which makes it possible to turn
the opponent's strength against him.
Moreover, although there can no true separation
of the mental, physical and spiritual aspects of martial arts,
for the sake of explanation to those less familiar, mental
training can be classified under simbub (law of the mind,
refer to Kidohae curriculum), physical health training as
kibub (law of ki), self-defense training as shinbub (law of
body).
The basis of Hapkido is ultimately an understanding
of these basic elements of the human condition; that of the
mind, body, and ki. The mind can be represented as a circle
so that it can be maintained at a level state. Ki can be represented
as a square so that healthy ki can be harnessed, drawn in
to fully cultivate. The body can be represented as a triangle
so that it can be ideally balanced in development. These separate
elements must also come together and seek harmony and coordination
at a higher level.
Hapkido is mainly realized through physical
movements but through training it is apparent that there are
other benefits at hand. There are the mental and philosophical
teachings of positive life actions together with the responsibility
to follow the path of the righteous man, a true martial artist. |
