HapKiDo Classes Near Gallatin, TN
Elite combat self-defense training. Joint locks, throws, pressure points, and weapon defense — certified through top international HapKiDo organizations. Ages 12 and up.
What Is HapKiDo?
HapKiDo is a Korean martial art built for real-world self-defense. Unlike sport-based martial arts that operate within competition rules, HapKiDo is a complete combat system designed for civilians, law enforcement, and military personnel. The name translates to “the way of coordinating energy” — reflecting its core principle of redirecting an attacker’s force against them.
GMA’s HapKiDo program covers every range of combat: dynamic kicks and strikes at long range, devastating elbow and knee strikes at close range, standing joint locks and bone-breaking throws at grappling range, and ground self-defense when the fight goes to the floor. We also incorporate foundational Rocian Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques for ground defense.
HapKiDo emphasizes circular motion, non-resisting movements, and control of the opponent. Practitioners gain advantage through redirection of force, balance, footwork, and body positioning — using bone-breaking leverage and throws rather than strength against strength. This makes HapKiDo effective regardless of the practitioner’s size or physical strength.
Commando-Style Combat System — GMA HapKiDo is a non-sport, elite combat self-defense style. Our program trains students to counter techniques from other martial arts and defend against common street attacks — including knife, club, and gun removal techniques. We also offer specialized programs for law enforcement and military personnel. Certified through GHF, KHF, KKAHMA, and WCHF.
What You’ll Learn
A complete combat system covering every range of fighting — from long-range strikes to ground defense.
Dynamic kicks, blocks, strikes, and devastating throws. Long-range and close-range combat techniques for standing confrontations.
Takedowns, arm bars, and ground control tactics. Incorporates Gracie BJJ fundamentals so you’re never helpless on the ground.
Standing and ground joint manipulation, cuffing techniques, and bone-breaking leverage throws. Control without relying on size or strength.
Strike zone targeting and devastating pressure point strikes. Learn where and how to apply precise force for maximum defensive effect.
Defense against guns, knives, and clubs. Training with cane, bo staff, short stick, sword, sai, and knife. Removal and disarming techniques.
Self-defense against 1, 2, 3, and 4 attackers simultaneously. Redirection tactics, balance control, and strategic positioning under pressure.
Is HapKiDo Right for You?
Effective self-defense for everyone — regardless of size, strength, or experience level.
Adults who want practical, real-world self-defense skills that work regardless of size or athletic ability. No experience needed.
Experienced practitioners who want to add joint locks, throws, and weapon defense to their skillset. Complements TaeKwonDo, BJJ, and other arts.
Officers and service members seeking control and restraint techniques. Specialized curriculum adapted for professional use.
Ages 12 and up. Teens train alongside adults in a structured, disciplined environment. Family members can train together.
Learn From Certified Masters
Certified Master Level instructor. Academy Owner, Academy Director, Master Instructor, and Hyung Demonstrator. Multi-discipline martial artist with deep expertise in Korean combat arts.
Kukkiwon / ITF / TIU
Certified Instructor Level. Front Desk Manager and multi-program instructor at GMA. Trains across TaeKwonDo, HapKiDo, and youth programs.
Kukkiwon / TIU / GMA
HapKiDo Tuition
Depending on program length and classes per week
Contact us for a detailed tuition breakdown. We’ll find a program that fits your schedule and budget.
Real Results, Real Confidence
“I have trained for years, in multiple styles, in multiple states, and at multiple gyms. GMA has the best variety of arts available in the Nashville area — frankly, the best I have seen anywhere. All the instructors are top quality. You won’t find better instructors, a more flexible schedule, or this size gym with such great equipment anywhere else in the State of TN.”
“Outstanding martial arts training. Exceptional leadership. Wonderful with children and special needs students. Highly recommend!”
HapKiDo FAQ
TaeKwonDo focuses primarily on kicks and strikes — it’s a sport-based martial art with competitive forms and sparring. HapKiDo is a combat self-defense system that covers joint locks, throws, pressure points, weapon defense, and ground fighting in addition to strikes. Think of TaeKwonDo as the striking art and HapKiDo as the complete self-defense system. Many GMA students train in both — they complement each other perfectly.
No. HapKiDo is specifically designed to use an attacker’s force against them through leverage, redirection, and body positioning. Size and strength are not factors — the techniques work because of physics, not muscle. You’ll build fitness, flexibility, and coordination as you train, but none of that is required to start.
HapKiDo classes are open to ages 12 and up. Younger children interested in martial arts self-defense should check out our Kids Martial Arts or TaeKwonDo programs, which teach age-appropriate discipline, confidence, and basic defensive skills. Teens 12+ train in the adult HapKiDo class in a structured, controlled environment.
Absolutely. HapKiDo’s joint locks, control holds, cuffing techniques, and weapon disarming are directly applicable to law enforcement and military roles. GMA offers specialized training adapted for professional use — including compliance techniques, restraint methods, and de-escalation through physical control. Contact us about our law enforcement and military programs.
HapKiDo weapon training covers both defense and proficiency. You’ll learn defense against guns, knives, and clubs — including disarming and removal techniques. You’ll also train with traditional weapons: cane, bo staff, short stick, sword, sai, and knife. Weapon defense is introduced progressively as your foundational skills develop.
Ready to Learn Real Self-Defense?
Your first HapKiDo class is free. Come experience commando-style self-defense training led by certified master instructors with decades of experience.
509 Garnet Ct, Suite 100, Gallatin, TN 37066
(731) 324-3850 | info@gmagallatin.com