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student principlesHapkido is Not Just About Fighting!
Demonstrate proper consideration at all times. We can show respect by bowing to each other, to the Dojang, and the instructors but it is also having a proper state of mind. Students should value the time spent with others, respect their views, and show courtesy on and off the mat. Treat others with respect and they will respect you in return.
Use mediation time at the start of class to clear your mind of all distractions. Similar to preparing the body through warm up, begin class when you are also mentally ready. You will get more personal satisfaction and enjoyment out of class when you focus on what you doing. Once you are ready - then always train to the best of your ability. You will feel and perform better if you work hard and concentrate on what you are doing. Learn the proper protocols and technique slowly at first before increasing power and speed. Master a technique before moving on to more advanced material. Focus on your present actions and give it your best effort.
It doesn’t matter if you're a seasoned martial artist or it’s your first day, there is always something you can learn through practice and training. Observe the technique being demonstrated, listen to feedback from others, and use the principles that you have been taught. One of the reasons we bow to each other is because our training partner has helped us to understand something more about ourselves – what is possible, a change for the better, or a new perspective. Demonstrating humility by showing a willingness to learn without ego, both in and out of class, is an important factor to becoming a greater martial artist and a better citizen.
Any student of the martial arts must display a strong sense of perseverance in his or her studies - it requires many steps to climb a mountain. In most cases, there are specific paths or steps that must be followed. Learning a technique completely will generally mean taking the time to allow the knowledge and skill to "sink in".
When you first begin Hapkido or move to a new level, you will learn a series of technical movement without much thought to the underlying principle surrounding the technique. The technical aspects of your training, although important, is only one part to your growth. As you learn and rise to the higher levels, you will be expected to self-evaluate your attitude, technical skill, sincerity and representation of Hapkido. There are many questions to ask yourself that will lead to deeper understanding. Questions like “Is the technique practical for me?", "Does it work the same for people of different height or weight?", "What limits do I have and how can I overcome them?"
Martial arts training is not just about getting some exercise or learning a few interesting techniques. Additionally, a Hapkidoist does not practice the school principles only during class time – one or two hours a week. Rather a Hapkidoist applies what he/she has learned to everyday life. This entails leading a healthy lifestyle with proper exercise, diet, and social interaction; demonstrating self-discipline, accepting new challenges, serving your community, and meditates regularly. Set goals in other aspects of your life – school, work, friends, or family - and celebrate small wins.
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