ABOUT HAPKIDO

  The moral tenets of Hapkido draw significant inspiration from the teachings of Confucius, emphasizing the cultivation of character, ethical conduct, and harmonious living within society. These tenets serve as the ethical foundation for Hapkido practitioners, shaping not only their martial art practice but also their lives as responsible members of society.
1. Righteousness (Rectitude): This tenet reflects the core principle of moral integrity and uprightness. Hapkidoist are encouraged to be individuals of unwavering principles, guided by a strong sense of fairness and justice. They are expected to make ethical choices and act in ways that are morally sound. Righteousness serves as a moral compass, guiding practitioners to make decisions that align with their values and contribute to the greater good of society.
2. Courtesy: Courtesy is a fundamental virtue in Hapkido that promotes respectful and considerate behavior. Hapkidoist are taught to be mindful of their actions and interactions with others, demonstrating kindness, politeness, and generosity. Practitioners cultivate a spirit of cooperation, showing respect not only to their instructors and fellow students but also to all individuals they encounter in daily life. Courtesy fosters positive relationships and contributes to a harmonious community.
3. Patience:  Patience is a vital trait that Hapkidoist strive to develop. This tenet encourages practitioners to exhibit endurance and resilience, especially in challenging circumstances. It teaches individuals to persevere in the face of adversity, remain calm under pressure, and avoid impulsive reactions. Patience is particularly valuable during training, as it allows practitioners to progress steadily and master complex techniques. Beyond the dojo, it helps individuals navigate life's difficulties with composure and grace.
Hapkido's moral tenets, rooted in Confucian philosophy, go beyond physical techniques and self-defense. They aim to shape individuals into virtuous, responsible, and socially conscious members of society. By adhering to these principles of righteousness, courtesy, and patience, Hapkidoist not only become skilled martial artists but also contribute positively to their communities, fostering a sense of harmony and ethical living. These tenets serve as a reminder that martial arts training is not just about physical prowess but also about personal growth and moral development. 

   Hapkido practitioners consistently report enhancements in physical well-being and increased self-confidence, among various other psychological benefits derived from their training (Boudreau, 1995). The act of mastering specific techniques with the body becomes a medium through which hapkidoists refine their personal character and attitude (Cerny, 1981, 47). Hapkido instills motivation, discipline, and catalyzes transformative change in both adult and adolescent practitioners (Brownridge, 1975, 56). In a society grappling with soaring rates of physical inactivity and extreme obesity, So Won Sool emerges as a beacon promoting physical fitness while centering on mind-body training. Our training offers an engaging alternative to conventional exercise routines and presents a unique avenue for acquiring self-defense and martial skills.
The physical training regimen of So Won Sool delivers significant health benefits, effectively reducing morbidity and mortality. While martial arts are often associated with youth, the advantages of So Won Sool extend across all age groups. Participants, regardless of age, experience notable enhancements in aerobic capacity, balance, strength, and reductions in body fat percentage. Our approach to training not only improves pre-motor skills but also enhances visual spatial awareness and motor reaction time. Through So Won Sool, practitioners gain proficiency in addressing a wide spectrum of aggression, spanning from stand-up confrontations to ground-based combat. Our training encompasses kicking, striking, trapping, takedowns, grappling techniques, as well as the use of blunt and bladed weapons. Beyond physical prowess, So Won Sool imparts the ability to relax and center the body, deepening the mind-body connection for comprehensive growth and well-being. 

  Hapkido encompasses an intricate tapestry of meditation and relaxation training, teaching the practitioner to harness and release energy, both in partnership with others and in solitary pursuit. Achieving the synergy of mind and body, often referred to as enlightenment, self-knowledge, or balance, is the ultimate goal (Ripley, 2003). The physical rigors of Hapkido serve as a pathway to an intangible destination—a realm of mental wellness, spiritual richness, and physical vitality (Back & Kim, 1981; Wiley, 1995; Reid & Croucher, 1995).
The psychological, meditative, and philosophical dimensions of our program are carefully designed to nurture practitioners' overall mental well-being. Sin Moo empowers individuals to manage and mitigate stress through focused breathing and meditation practices. These breathing exercises not only fortify internal organs but also amplify both physical and mental vitality. The meditative and philosophical facets of Sin Moo hold the power to combat negative behaviors often exhibited by unruly adolescents and young adults. Furthermore, Sin Moo's internal development practices offer invaluable support for addressing anxieties, fostering self-esteem, improving self-perception, and nurturing self-acceptance.
Hapkido training shares an intimate connection with morality (Becker, 1982, 19). The influence of Eastern philosophies deeply ingrained in Hapkido practices is evident in the cultivation of strong moral character and the promotion of non-violent attitudes and behaviors (Bäck and Kim, 1978, 24). In-depth research exploring the personalities and life experiences of Hapkido practitioners, with a focus on their levels of self-esteem and self-image, consistently underscores their status as psychologically healthy and well-adjusted individuals (Konzak & Klavora, 1980).
Furthermore, Hapkido training bolsters concentration, diminishes impulsivity, and mitigates hyperactivity concerns. By emphasizing discipline, aspiration, commitment, goal setting, and assertive communication, Sin Moo training hones the practitioner's leadership acumen. Sin Moo cultivates a more resolute pursuit and attainment of objectives, reinforcing the practitioner's verbal conflict resolution skills through the three key stages of Hapkido defense: perception, evaluation, and decision/reaction. In essence, Hapkido transcends the boundaries of physical prowess, venturing into the realm of mental fortitude, ethical development, and psychological well-being