Hwa Rang Do is one of the most complete martial art systems in existence. If we have the goal of mastering ourselves, we must also become masters of any situation. Our martial art curriculum provides the vehicle for this pursuit, so you can expect to learn extensive details about the following topics.
- Stand-up Combat – This area of martial arts includes striking, joint manipulation, and throws. All types of striking with hands and legs is covered, also learning concepts of proper distance and range is critical, and then the timing of being able to deliver an effective strike when the opportunity presents itself is a must. All types of linear and circular striking is covered in our system, along with distance and in-close combat. Another important aspect once you are “in-close” is the ability to use joint manipulation to secure and neutralize the opponent, so all types of throws and take-downs are added so that one can finish with a quick submission.
- Ground Combat – This area of the martial arts deals with what happens once you and your opponent are on the ground. The advantage of position & leverage are paramount so that one can control (or escape from) the opponent and then once again secure them with a submission. Wrestling concepts are added into the mix, and there are a number of drills used to create a better ground game. Please remember that grappling/jujitsu is a sport venue, however, in the end we have always integrated our ground game with our stand-up skills so that one can defend and control the situation no matter if you are standing or on the ground.
- Weaponry – This area of the martial arts makes up our final third section of the combatives. We practice regularly at weapons so that we have the proficiency to use any external object as a tool for both offensive and defense capabilities. We practice over 100 different weapons in our system, and we also have a dedicated arena for weapon vs. weapon fighting in Gumtoogi (Sword Fighting) & Bongtoogi (Stick Fighting).
- Meditation – This moves our study to that of the self and the mind. In the Tao Te Ching, Lao Tsu is famous for saying, “One who conquers others is strong, One who conquers himself is truly mighty!” No matter how much one trains, you will never escape this fact, so it is imperative that you develop the skills to calm your mind and emotions, create greater awareness, and truly know who you are – weaknesses, frailties, ego, and all. While this is obviously a study of a lifetime, we will help you begin this journey with breathing techniques, guided meditations, and dialogues with our Chief Instructor.
- Curriculum – As with any system, there needs to be a method to the madness, and our curriculum is the way that we can keep everything organized for not only your progression, but also that of the students. We have a set number of techniques, forms, basics, and self-defense techniques for each belt. This curriculum is our static library of information, and as one practices you will be able to dynamically apply those skills as needed in an improvisational manner through your different types of matching. The curriculum aspect of the Instructor Program is very important, as this is what is taught to students and is also standardized throughout all of our schools globally.
There is quite a bit of material listed above, and it is impossible to imagine how much you will actually be learning. We also hope that you keep in mind that for us in Hwa Rang Do, getting to the 1st Degree Black Sash rank is ONLY the beginning! Even though you will have developed significant prowess in all of those areas, this is actually only a foundation and your vocabulary of skills and expectations will only increase as you move on to the higher Black Sash Degrees.