Hapkido is a traditional Korean martial art that was influenced by Japan's daito ryu aikijujutsu. Traditional hapkido uses both soft and hard techniques. Eagle Talon Martial Arts says this art "employs the philosophy of using minimal force to overcome a stronger opponent." Soft techniques include joint manipulations and throws that use an opponent's force against him. Hard techniques include kicks and strikes that are seen in other Korean arts like tae kwon do. This combination of techniques makes traditional hapkido a formidable fighting style.
Joint Locks
Joint manipulation is an important part of traditional hapkido. Joint locks can help you subdue an assailant and throw him to the ground. Wrist locks are frequently used in this martial art. To perform a basic wrist lock, grab an opponent's right wrist with your left hand. Put your thumb on the back of his hand and place your fingers on the front of his wrist. Use your thumb to push his hand toward his wrist. You can also perform a wrist lock by putting both of your thumbs on the back of an opponent's hand.
Throws
The throwing techniques of hapkido exemplify the style's ability to redirect an opponent's force. You can perform hapkido throws against much larger opponents. A common type of hapkido technique is the neck and hip throw. If an opponent throws a punch, you can redirect his energy with a block. Step toward the assailant and wrap your arm around the back of his neck. Pull him over your hip and throw him to the ground. Use a mat for throws to avoid serious injuries.
Kicks
According to the American TKD Martial Arts Center, hapkido has "some of the most effective and devastating kicks in all of martial arts." These kicks include several jumping and spinning techniques. A basic hapkido kick is the front-snap kick. To execute this technique, lift your knee straight up in front of you. Point your knee at your target. Quickly snap the ball of your foot out at the target. Recoil the kick after you make contact. Make sure you don't kick a target or opponent with your toes because you can injure yourself.
Strikes
Hapkido strikes are often used to weaken an opponent and set him up for a joint lock or throw. Strikes also target vital areas on the body. For example, the tiger mouth strike is delivered to an opponent's throat. To perform this strike, hit with the webbing between your thumb and forefinger. Hapkido also uses powerful elbow strikes. You can forcefully strike an assailant's chin with a rising elbow.
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