Sparring or Free Fighting
At American College of Martial Arts we believe that sparring is optional. We don’t believe that a person should be pushed into a situation where they have to have physical contact with another person in a striking or kicking environment. We would like for all individuals who would want to spar have the opportunity but to get pushed into doing so could have adverse effects. Sparring is...
Read MorePrinciples of a Joint Attack
Whether you are in Korea (where I began studying Hapkido) or in Alamance County, North Carolina (where I am currently teaching) a fighter must use one or more of the following principles in order for a joint attack to work. Pressure points Use 2 way action Twist joint in a direction in which it is not designed to go. Confuse opponent Generate a base Use movement in your body to apply...
Read MoreFear
Fear is realized after the fact for some, before for some and during for others. For those after the fact for fear it shows training and no mind. This is part of who we are and who we were as children of no egos and thus new minds or as believed no mind. We were like running water, free moving, absorbing. As we got older the water froze and we learned fear and distrust of ourselves and...
Read More10 Most Asked Questions/Answers About Martial Arts
1. Do I need to be in shape first? No. The reason a large number of people participate in Tiger Shark Hapkido is to get in shape. A workout at American College of Martial Arts is very healthy as long precautions are taken as need be. It incorporates aerobic exercise with stretching, balance and coordination drills along with simply learning how to breathe. 2. How expensive is it? The price...
Read MoreVictory
If you defeat an opponent your victory dance should be the same as if you had lost. In Mixed Martial Arts as well as styles such as Judo and whether you study anywhere in the Piedmont Triad area a warrior should be measured by his compassion and courage by his enemies and friends alike. -Master John Dowdy
Read MoreMission Statement
No Limitations! We are here to help motivate individuals to achieve a higher standard for themselves, physically and mentally. To share this philosophy with all within their sphere of influence as they go out into the community. To help others understand any limitations they perceive can be overcome by proper desire and attitude. It is the mission of ‘TIGER SHARK HAPKIDO’ and its related...
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