Beginner Curriculum
8 years and older, beginning to intermediate ranks
The junior curriculum includes fundamentals of Hapkido sword and staff techniques and modern sport weapons sparring. The emphasis is on developing skills and coordination so that students can satisfy their interests in martial arts and weapons training in particular.
Sport Sparring
Modern soft weapons create a safe and fun training through combat sport sparring. We use the Century ActionFlex line of martial arts padded weapons, which recaptures the spirit of full-speed weapon dueling, and safe enough for students 8 years and older.
Required Gear
All students in the weapons program must have: foam helmet with face shield, chest protector. For beginners, the following gear is recommended but optional; juniors and adults are required to have: padded gloves, neck protection, padded sword, and cup (optional for females).
Tenets
The Weapons Sparring program shares the same values as the Taekwondo program, but a little more formally. Weapons training demands higher levels of self-control and respect for the weapons, to ensure safety. Therefore weapons classes will include formal seated bow, meditation, and the recitation of the tenets directly:
1. Perseverence
2. Courtesy
3. Respect
4. Honor
5. Integrety
6. Self-control
Advanced Curriculum
10 years and older, intermediate and above
The advanced curriculum for the weapons program maintains the modern sport sparring and reintroduces traditional elements. Traditional training goes back to Taekwondo roots: (1) multiple applications in Taekwondo forms (including weapons); and (2) Hapkido training, the sister-style to Taekwondo, which is the basis for many Korean weapon styles.
Introduction to Applications
Taekwondo poomsae are rich in meaning and heritage. Prior to the 20th century, martial arts knowledge was integrated and holistic. With the advent of photography and wide-spread literacy, martial arts knowledge experienced rapid growth. 20th century styles specialized to address local and contemporary self-defense and safety challenges within cultural traditions. 21st century styles, enjoying peace brought about by civilized society, further exaggerated the specializations to fit the needs of sport competition. Consequently, broad understanding has disappeared from many modern martial arts curriculum. The advanced weapons class reclaims some of this deeper understanding.
Students learn different applications of techniques found in Palgwe forms, including joint locks, pressure points, and weapon techniques.
Intermediate and Advanced Applications
Students review techniques in Taegeuk and Palgwe forms with applications for take-downs, throws, and pins. Advanced applications include exploring Eastern mindfulness through Buddhist meditation poses found in forms.
