Hapkido is a Korean martial art that employs devastating kicks, fierce punches and bone-breaking joint locks and throws. As far as fighting styles go, Hapkido is as effective as it is technical, once mastered. Its strong emphasis on kicking makes it similar to tae kwon do and other traditional martial arts, but its sophisticated use of pressure points and joint locks truly makes it a potent form of self-defense. Hapkido is measured by 10 levels of skill, each represented by a different color belt and with its own test for worthiness.
Defense Against Wrist Grabs
Wrist grabs are a central component of hapkido. Many of the throws and joint locks start by grabbing your opponent's wrist. To be a well-rounded practitioner of hapkido, you also have to be able to defend against these same wrist grabs. Demonstrating your defense against wrist grabs is the first portion of the test.
Defense Against Hand Attacks
Being able to block and defend your opponent's hand attacks is the second requirement to get your yellow belt. You must demonstrate before your master that you can block or counter punches from your opponent. There are many ways to defend against hand attacks using hapkido. Your master will let you know ahead of time which defensive moves he expects you to exhibit.
Defense Against Kicks
Kicking is one of the most fundamental parts of hapkido. Spinning kicks, flying kicks and leg sweeps are all part of the repertoire. Your third requirement to get your yellow belt is to demonstrate that you can block these kicks. Just like with defending against hand attacks, your master will prepare you with the types of defensive moves he wants you to demonstrate.
Breaking
For the fourth part of your yellow belt test, you are required to break two 1-inch boards. Breaking demonstrates your power and focus. You must break the first board with a kick. You must break the second board with your knife hand, which is the outside edge of your palm.
History
For the fifth part of your yellow belt test, you are required to demonstrate your knowledge of the history of hapkido. This knowledge is based on the curriculum provided to you by your master.
Essay
The final requirement for your yellow belt in hapkido is a two-page written essay. Your master will provide you with the topic he wants you to write about.
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