Combat Hapkido

Hapkido Style at Taekwondo World

There are many styles of Hapkido and many associations or governing bodies of the various styles. Some boast of thousands of techniques and more than a 100 kinds of kicks. Some styles have created forms/patterns. Some emphasize high, jumping, aerobatic kicks and, equally aerobatic breakfalls. Others, more influenced by Judo and Aikido, emphasize throwing skills. Some have developed a strong sport aspect and engage competitively.

At Taekwondo World we practice what is known as Combat Hapkido. The style and curriculum was designed by Grandmaster John Pellegrini and was subsequently recognized (1999) as a legitimate style, distinct from the other styles. Combat Hapkido is recognized in Korea by the name of "Chon-Tu Kwan Hapkido" and is registered with the World Ki-Do Federation, an Hapkido organization which is recognized by the Korean Ministry of Education.

Some DIFFERENCES between TRADTIONAL HAPKIDO and COMBAT HAPKIDO

• No Forms (Poomse)
• Kicks are delivered to the lower part of the body
• Aerobatic kicks are not taught
• Aerobatic throws are not required or employed
• There are no "hard" blocks or static stances
• Traditional weapons are not taught
• Combat Hapkido teaches the use of self defense tools: dan bong, cane, stick, and knife
• Combat Hapkido teaches practical components in Ground Fighting; Pressure Points; Firearms Disarming
• Breaking boards (or other materials) not required nor desirable
• Combat Hapkido is not a sport and is not practiced competitively
• Combat Hapkido is evolving

Fundamental Principles and Concepts of COMBAT HAPKIDO

• Keep a low center of gravity
• Side-step the line of attack
• When pulled, push; when pushed, pull
• Do not use hard blocks. Rather, re-direct, deflect, check, parry jam, cut
• Understand the principle of the "Live Hand"
• Use balance disruption techniques
• Take advantage of the attacker's momentum
• Use distraction techniques before and during joint manipulation
• Keep index finger extended to reinforce grip
• Maintain a state of physical and mental relaxation
• Use the hips as the delivery system
• Learn how to extend, direct, focus and channel your Ki energy
• Always choose economy of motion
• Anticipate autonomic responses and follow up
• Understand the different ranges and directions of hostile confrontations

The Great Benefits of Combat Hapkido

Combat Hapkido is designed to be an extremely realistic, versatile and comprehensive discipline of self-protection.

 Combat Hapkido's dynamic concepts are based on scientific principles of anatomy and biomechanics as well as psychology and strategy. It is well suited for men and women of all ages and sizes because physical strength and athletic abilities are not essential. The emphasis is on redirecting the assailant's aggression and power back toward them with little effort and minimum force on your part.

Combat Hapkido is ideal for those individuals who do not have the time, desire or ability to commit themselves to the demanding study of a traditional Martial Art and are not interested in the "sport" aspect required by many systems. The essence of Combat Hapkido is pure Self Defense. It is the synthesis of scientific principles, realistic applications and plain common sense.

Grandmaster John Pellegrini
Founder of Combat Hapkido