“A Message To New Students”
I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the
International Hapkido Martial Arts University, Ca.
&
Jung Bai Hapkido
Since the dawn of time, people have searched for and developed ways of facing and overcoming the everyday challenges of life. By training in the martial arts, one confronts these major challenges and attempts to reach higher standards of life: mentally, physically, and spiritually.
Your lessons are designed to start you on your journey in the Martial Arts. The road is long, but in time you as a martial artist will learn to control your own actions and develop humility, courage and respect for yourself and others.
Our teaching offers our students a completely comprehensive curriculum covering the entire range of combat as taught in Jung Bai Hapkido, as taught by Grandmaster J. B. Lee, an student of Grandmaster Lee, Dong Gu & Hapkido founder Dojanim Choi, Yong Sul, and one of the founding Grandmasters of our beloved art. With time and patience you will gain all the knowledge needed to have the confidence and ability to succeed in all aspects of your life, regardless of your age. Our efforts are directed towards carrying on the traditions of the Martial Arts and aid in the development of today’s modern day men, women, and children.
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THE BEGINNER
One of the most difficult lessons the new student must learn is that progress in Hapkido is slow. Each person beginning instruction wants to begin immediately on advanced techniques, forgetting the basic framework. So it would be wise for each person to consider the following guides when first training:
1. Hapkido is not only a self-defense but also an art form; the art is eventually the ability to control the mind, spirit and body toward a more coordinated being. So, first as the piano student must play notes, then scales, Hapkido students must learn the basics of stance and position before incorporating technique.
2. As the musician must practice everyday, so must the serious student of Hapkido.
3. Not only is it important to practice consistently, but also slowly. The slower the beginner practice, the faster progress will be made. The student is less likely to overlook details so crucial to further development.
4. Never compare yourself to other students. The Subum/teacher is the only one responsible for you. But after all, the belt is only a symbol of accomplishment, not the accomplishment itself.
5. All students begin training at different levels of development. This is not to say that two students may join class at the same time, but one is already advancing. Not all have equal ability; therefore, progression is individual.
6. Finally, every student must understand that the martial arts are a perishable skill. If you neglect your training then your skills and abilities will diminish. Only by diligent training will you continue to develop and reinforce your reflexes, speed, power and overall ability.
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Chief Instructor: Master Daniel W. McCullar, 5th Dan
International Hapkido Martial Arts University
International Hapkido Karate Association
