Melbourne Hapkido

It’s easy in the heat of the moment to react and focus on applying a technique, but it’s the three underpinning principles of Hapkido that allow us to apply a technique effectively. i.e. Harmony, Circular Movement and Water.  

Employ the principles before the technique and protect yourself – cover, block, move off the line; take the attacker’s balance and structure; then respond with the appropriate technique.

Applying the principles allows you to respond – not react – and to adapt to the situation. Self defence is fluid and often messy.

There is a difference between learning and applying a technique. Focusing on the principles allows us to bridge the gap. 

Hwa (화) - HARMONY
Do not meet force with force e.g. if your attacker pushes you pull, if they pull you push. Blend with their movement and use their own momentum against them, move them to a position that favours you.

Won (원) - CIRCULAR MOVEMENT
Redirect linear attacks into a circular pattern. Circles help you generate centrifugal force and control an attacker’s balance. Be the centre of the storm.

Mul (물)- WATER
Be flexible and adaptable. Like water, your defence or attack should flow around an obstacle adjusting to the opponent’s reactions.

Our Women's Self Defence Course is featured in News.com.au! https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/real-life/surprise-reason-women-have-been-heading-down-to-melbourne-beach-at-night/news-story/21d1ec9488638893315154ec386853b2

What a great start to our first Women’s Self Defence Course for 2026! So much energy and enthusiasm in the room. We are excited to be training with such an engaged group of women over the next 6 weeks.

Take ownership of your training.

Instead of just passively following along in your classes, take an active role in your training. In discussion with your instructor or mentor:

* Assess your current situation.
* Establish your training goals.
* Develop a plan.
* Take the necessary actions to achieve these. Consistency is the key.

You don’t have to do this alone. We need our fellow students and instructors to help us progress, but you do need to drive it.

“Wisdom comes from experience. Experience is often a result of lack of wisdom.”― Terry Pratchett