How Students Can Represent and Grow Hapkido by KJN Richard Hackworth, PhD.
Hapkido is a dynamic and versatile Korean martial art founded by Choi Young Sool in Korea that emphasizes self-defense, joint locks, throws, and strikes. It is a comprehensive art that encompasses both physical and mental development, fostering not only self-defense skills but also personal growth and a harmonious approach to life. As a hapkido student, you play a crucial role in representing and growing this art. Here’s how you can actively contribute to the positive representation and expansion of hapkido:
- Embody the Principles of Hapkido
Hapkido is more than just physical techniques; it is a philosophy that emphasizes respect, harmony, and personal growth. By embodying these principles in your daily life, you become a living testament to the positive impact of hapkido. Demonstrate respect for your instructors, fellow students, and those around you. Strive for harmony in your interactions and approach challenges with a calm and composed demeanor. Pursue personal growth by continuously learning, improving your skills, and expanding your knowledge.
- Be a Dedicated and Enthusiastic Student
Your dedication to hapkido training reflects your passion for the art and inspires others to explore its depths. Attend classes regularly, practice diligently, and actively participate in discussions and demonstrations. Your enthusiasm will be contagious, attracting others to the art and showcasing the positive energy that hapkido cultivates.
- Share Your Knowledge and Passion
Spread the word about hapkido by sharing your knowledge and passion with others. Talk about your experiences, explain the principles and techniques, and demonstrate the benefits of hapkido to your friends, family, and community. Engage in conversations about hapkido online and in person, highlighting its positive impact on your life and encouraging others to explore its potential.
- Participate in Demonstrations and Events
Volunteer to participate in hapkido demonstrations and events, showcasing the art’s techniques, philosophy, and benefits to a wider audience. These events provide an opportunity to dispel misconceptions about martial arts and demonstrate the practical applications of hapkido in self-defense and personal development.
- Support Your Dojang and Instructors
Your dojang, the training hall where you practice hapkido, is a hub for the growth and development of the art. Support your dojang by being an active member, assisting with organizing events, and promoting its activities. Show your appreciation for your instructors by respecting their guidance, acknowledging their contributions, and helping to spread their teachings.
- Engage with the Hapkido Community
Connect with other hapkido practitioners online and in person, exchanging knowledge, sharing experiences, and fostering a sense of camaraderie. Participate in online forums, attend seminars and workshops, and engage in discussions about hapkido techniques, philosophy, and training methods.
- Promote Hapkido Online and in Your Community
Utilize social media platforms to share informative posts, videos, and articles about hapkido. Create engaging content that highlights the benefits of hapkido, showcases its techniques, and dispels common misconceptions. Engage with online communities interested in martial arts and self-defense, introducing them to the unique aspects of hapkido.
- Organize Hapkido Workshops and Seminars
Take the initiative to organize workshops and seminars in your community, inviting experienced hapkido instructors to share their knowledge and expertise. These events can introduce newcomers to the art, provide opportunities for existing practitioners to deepen their understanding, and promote hapkido’s presence in your community.
- Embrace Continuous Learning and Growth
Never stop learning and growing as a hapkido practitioner. Attend seminars and workshops led by experienced instructors, explore different styles and techniques, and delve into the philosophical underpinnings of the art. Your continuous pursuit of knowledge and improvement will inspire others and contribute to the overall growth of hapkido.
- Be a Positive Role Model
Your actions and behavior reflect not only on yourself but also on the art of hapkido. Be a positive role model by demonstrating respect, humility, and integrity in all aspects of your life. Your positive influence will attract others to hapkido and reinforce the art’s emphasis on personal development and harmonious living.
By embodying the principles of hapkido, actively participating in its growth, and sharing your passion with others, you can effectively represent and contribute to the expansion of this dynamic and enriching martial art. Remember, hapkido is a journey of continuous learning, personal growth, and harmonious living. Embrace this journey and inspire others to join you along the way.
About the author: Richard Hackworth is the Vice President of the International Independent Hapkido Alliance and Chairman of the Hapkido School Growth Committee and Membership Committee. He is President of the USA Hapkido Union, the national governing body of Hapkido under the authority of the IIHA.
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