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| Vince Valitutti |
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Combinations
Self Defence techniques are best utilised when used in combinations. When training in Hapkido, we learn how to apply these skills not only as separate techniques but also how these may change and flow on to other techniques. In the case of takedowns, combinations (including strikes) can be used to force the opponent to react, creating opening or opportunity to take them down. One technique although effective in its own right may be of more use in setting up for the primary manoeuvre, thereby taking the opponent's focus away from your real intention. Combinations rely on principles of adaptablity and a solid foundation in a variety of techniques from predictable positions and reactions.
Breaking Balance
Unbalancing can be used as the primary technique for a takedown or as a secondary technique to allow the defender to better complete some other manoeuvre. When causing the opponent to become unbalanced, they will usually use their energy and attention to get that balance back. The defender uses this motion to their advantage by completing a different technique (combination). Unbalancing is commonly used in Hapkido to set up for a throw, or to create motion for subsequent locks or strikes. One of the simplest methods of breaking balance is found in basic striking skills.
low centre of gravity
All body throws in Hapkido use the same principles found in Judo. The most important component of the majority of throws is keeping our centre of gravity low while maintaining balance. While most beginners use their own strength rather than mechanical leverage, simply changing height can allow far superior application. Lowering your height is also a simple way to maintain balance during a struggle.
Leverage of joint locks
Joint locks can be used before a fight breaks out of control, at the end of a take down, or even to gain leverage for the common Hapkido whip throw. If you watch the news you may see police or security personnel use these types of locks frequently. The common wristlock used in Hapkido utilises a double-handed grip of the opponent's wrist (with opponent's palm facing outward). With this grip the two thumbs use leverage to force the hand back towards the opponent's own elbow. Keeping the wrist bent often causes the opponent to retract their arm in pain, allowing combination attacks to the shoulder or elbow joint. Variations of this lock can be completed after a takedown by applying a foot or knee onto the shoulder blade, or converting to various armbars. Wrist locks are best used to maintain "pain" control over the attacker - however we would recommend other techniques when controlling an attacker who is affected by alcohol or drugs, with their sense of pain dulled. These other techniques are always based on position and leverage.
To explain some of the manoeuvres presented in this article, we will discuss some important concepts that are vital to Hapkido. These basic principles can be used to improvise and apply to martial arts of any style. Historically speaking, some of these concepts draw important influence from Aikido, Ju Jitsu, Judo and even several Chinese martial art systems.
Redirect Force
The Hapkido practitioner learns to use the opponent's force in many ways. After deflecting an attacker's lunging punch, it takes little effort to continue the direction of that force. By grabbing the wrist and adding a simple tug, the attacker will find themselves off balance or at least forced to manoeuvre to maintain balance. A swinging punch can be dealt with by continuing the momentum in a circular pattern. By manoeuvring our back into the attacker's path after grabbing the wrist and arm, a variety of hip and shoulder throws are easily completed.
Practical training Tip:
Two people sit opposite each other in a formal seated position. Grabbing each other's arms, each person tries pull the other off balance while maintaining their own balance. The idea of this tip is obviously to maintain balance without over re-acting. Beginners tend to overcompensate in resisting the initial direction of force. Using the opponent's force without directly resisting it is not a natural response, it must be practiced often.
Application Tip:
When redirecting the opponent's force this can seem to have the affect of amplifying or building up the opponent's momentum. Re-directing the momentum is useful if the attacker is effectively countering your technique or if you want build up energy for a ‘whip' throw.
Takedown Tip:
Any technique that involves the opponent being taken to the ground should always be treated as part of the big picture, not necessarily viewed as the final technique.
While many Hapkido takedowns may take the wind out of your opponent, always be prepared to maintain control through position and leverage, and be prepared to flow into other techniques such as joint locks, submissions and strikes. Takedowns and throws always occur in close range, so be extra vigilant for hidden weapons, and ensure that you can make a clean escape if needs be.
Known as ‘The Tiger of Hapkido', Master Kiwan Kim started training martial arts at the early age of just five-years-old. Brought up in a small fishing village in South Korea, Kiwan participated in many Korean national martial arts events, also touring Vietnam and the surrounding region as part of the Korean Hapkido demonstration team. His talents became apparent from an early age, which sparked the attention of many of the country's top masters. In particular Kiwan began studying under the watchful eye of renowned teacher Master Kim Haw-sic. Kiwan studied with many other talented students and after two decades became recognised as a master in his own right. Recently moving to Australia, Kiwan now passes on his formidable knowledge to students of all ages, as well as teaching martial arts skills for self defence and movies.
Blitz: Why did you come to Australia?
KW: In Korea, it is considered an advantage to study in a foreign, English speaking country. My primary reason for coming to Brisbane was for the University. With this came the opportunity to broaden my horizons in experiencing another culture. I was also interested in starting a Hapkido School as I am considered to have sufficient grading. It is my honour to my Master Instructor, Kim Haw-sic to continue his tradition and training. He visits Australia every 12 months.
Blitz: What is the most important lesson of Hapkido?
KW: In practical terms it is the principle of circular movements and using the opponent's energy - these are important. Philosophically, it is to use your skills and general well being to make a positive impact on society, rather than using these skills in an aggressive manner, people who do this are less likely to find themselves in tight situations that require physical contact to resolve.
Blitz: What are some of the deeper philosophies of Hapkido?
Our creed is courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self control, and indomitable spirit. We teach the importance of being a responsible and contributing member of the community. An integral part of Hapkido is Tan Jun breathing. This is related to breathing and concentrating your bodies energy (Ki) into a focussed point, whether this relates to a part of your own body in a self defence technique or when used in warming up as part of a breathing exercise. This is what can also help the student to deal with stress and sickness and lead to a healthier life.
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