Hapkido is a fighting art from Korea, with strong similarities to the better-known art tae kwon do. Like most martial arts, there is no central authority that governs all hapkido certifications. Rather, autonomous federations and even individual school determine what they require for their different certifications.
Certification Ranks
Beginning hapkido students wear a white belt as part of their uniform. Depending on the certifying agency, that student will pass through seven to eleven levels of rank, called "kub," before qualifying for black belt. Some, but not all of these kub promotions will mean wearing a progressively darker belt - typically moving through yellow, blue and red belts. After attaining black belt rank, a student can progress through ten levels of black belt, called "dan."
Kub Requirements
The specific techniques for any given kub rank vary between different schools and organizations. As a general rule, beginning students focus on punches, blocks and kicks out of context. As they progress, they learn more advanced tools, and begin using tools they have mastered in context and with partners. Often, they learn specifically defined self defense techniques against certain attacks. Joint locks, throws and falling techniques join the material as the student approaches closer to black belt rank.
Dan Requirements
The first four or five ranks of black belt are similar to the kub ranks: the student learns progressively more challenging and demanding techniques. These techniques often include weapon disarms, as well as training with the long staff, short stick and cane. Breathing and meditation, as well as healing and massage, are commonly required at this level. Beginning with fifth dan, the certification is awarded rather than earned. This means that instead of demonstrating knowledge of a defined curriculum, the recipient receives rank only by demonstrating their value to the art and organization. Traditionally, 10th dan is reserved for the founder or current leader of a specific hapkido organization.
Teaching Certification
In many organizations, the black belt rank is a defacto certification for teaching a class unassisted. However, some organizations require additional training in teaching methods before an individual is certified to teach. In some schools, this requirement adds value to the teaching staff. In others, it's nothing more than an income stream for the organization.
References
- Hapkido Info
- Dave Coffman; Martial Arts Historian; Hillsboro, Oregon
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