REGISTRATION FORM - Introductory Martial Arts Classes

Traditionally, Taekwondo and Hapkido do not begin teaching weapons use until after the black belt level, and then expect the black belt level student to quickly become proficient with a wide variety of weapons. Because of the amount of time required to master these weapons, a curriculum was developed suitable for adults and mature youth of all ranks. This allows serious, interested students to develop their skills over a period of years at a more realistic pace.

As a student progresses in rank in Korean Weaponry, their empty-hand defensive techniques will also benefit. For self-defense purposes, all participants of the Korean Weaponry Program are encouraged to take classes in Taekwondo or Hapkido.

The three weapons that are taught are the wooden sword (bokken), the staff (bo), and the nunchaku. The class is conducted safely under the leadership of instructors skilled in each of the three weapons.

Students are expected to master basic techniques, one-step sparring, drills, and forms with each weapon at each rank. At advanced ranks, students also drill with mixed weaponry (sword vs. staff, for example), simulate free sparring with weapons in a controlled environment, and learn techniques to disarm opponents (so that they may wield opponents' own weapons against them).

The goal of weapons practice is to develop focus, concentration, and clarity of mind. Although the use of "live" weapons is not practiced, traditional weapons training used sharp weapons and full contact to reinforce the necessity for absolute perfection in your concentration and technique. In addition, weapons training can help develop awareness, hand-eye coordination, ambidexterity, and hand and arm strength. The techniques learned with the weapons taught can be used in an emergency situation with anything near to hand.

REGISTRATION FORM - Introductory Martial Arts Classes