FAQ

Q: How do I tie my belt?
A: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geCcFNmyWVg&t=3s

  • Q: How do I know if I or my student is ready for the next belt level?
    A: For ages 12 and under, students must have earned all 3 colored stripes on their belt (Black, Red, Blue). For ages 13 and over, they must know all the techniques on their curriculum and get permission from a black belt instructor.

  • Q: What are my options to receive special attention and move up to the next level at an accelerated rate?
    A: There are several ways to accelerate your improvements. You can join the Black Belt Club, increase your attendance, or take private lessons.  If you think you need consistent help, you can change your program to our Special Combo program. (This program integrates private lessons with our regular group program.)  We also have educational DVDs and USBs available for purchase for self-practice at home. For more detailed information, contact your instructor or studio manager. The best way to improve your Hapkido skill is consistent attendance and focus.

  • Q: Where can I access my belt level curriculum that gives me information on what I need to know to achieve the next belt level?
    A:     To have separate access to your curriculum, ask an instructor for a physical or emailed copy.

  • Q: Where can I get my belt test application?
    A: To receive a belt test application, ask your instructor or download it via our website, www.kimshapkido.com

  • Q: When is the best time to sign my child up for the Black Belt Club Program?
    A: An ideal time to enroll in the Black Belt Club Program is when the student reaches the Orange Belt, and consistently behaves respectfully during class.  *(Black Belt Club is a SPECIAL program for dedicated students who set goals to be excellent black belts within 4 years.  The students who are dedicated to this program show their excellence in Hapkido with a “NEVER GIVE UP” attitude.  Students who have a positive attitude are welcome and are invited to our special group.  Black Belt Club offers 50% off testing fees (ONLY color belts.  NOT black belt) and allows for the student to attend a special class only for Black Belt Club Members.  (Such as Sparring Class is included in the Black Belt Club.)  In our 60 years of teaching experience, we find that Black Belt Club members have/has way high rate to complete their goal.)*

  • Q: What is sparring class?
    A:     Sparring class further hones a student’s fighting skills. It is a great way to improve hand and foot techniques. Other skills that will be improved are coordination, focus, timing, stamina and reaction time. Sparring also provides the opportunity to try in-class techniques on different partners.  Students are required to wear safety gear when they participate.  The entire match is supervised by a black belt.

    • Sparring class is included in our Black Belt Club program.

    • It is mandatory for students to wear all Kim’s Hapkido official safety equipment. (Chest Guard, Gloves, kicking pads, shin guards, head gear, groin cup and mouth piece)

    • Non-Black Belt Club member who want to participate in sparring must contact the school manager or an instructor for details and approval.

  • Q: How are you going to ensure that my child doesn’t use martial arts on other children?
    A: There is NO GUARANTEE that a child would not use martial arts on another child.  When they begin their training in martial arts, they will learn the consequences of hitting others.  Most children use force against others because they don’t know about power and the effectiveness of techniques.  They also have NOT learned to control their power in a positive way.  Your child will have role models to teach them proper usage of the techniques.  A great saying is “It is better for a bully to pick on a child who is a black belt than on a child who NEVER trained in martial arts, because the black belt has the training and the confidence to WALK AWAY.”

  • Q: How do I submit a payment?
    A: We set up a payment program with you using the Black Belt Billing company (D&S Acceptance) to accept payments.  *IF you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEM regarding your payment, please contact to billing company at 909.599.9654.*

  • Q: I need a new or better official uniform. What do I do?
    A: At your studio, we have a variety of official uniforms. Please contact your school instructor to order.

  • Q: I sometimes have a difficult time bringing my child to class. What should I do?
    A: Your child, especially if he/she is young, will sometimes feel unmotivated to come to class. This is not an uncommon situation, so do not feel worried or alarmed. Have your child interact with one of our instructors, who will encourage your child to attend class. If this behavior is consistent, you may request to set up a meeting with an instructor to receive advice on how to help your child stay motivated.

  • Q: How can I make up the classes that I missed because of a vacation or illness?
    A:     If you know your schedule in advance, you can take extra class before.  After an unexpected absence, you can make up classes as soon as you are ready.  Please let your instructors know if you will be missing any time.  All of the make-up classes must be complete within 1 MONTH before or after missing within your membership period.

  • Q: Are there any books or DVDs that will help me earn the next belt level?
    A: There is a written curriculum for each level which you can get from your instructor. We also offer comprehensive home study courses consisting of 20 volumes. All color belt level DVDs and USBs (from white belt to 1st degree black belt) are available for purchase via your instructor or our website. Additionally, DVDs and USBs on other special self defense topics are available for purchase. This program is beneficial for students to train in their own time in the comforts of their homes. This is also great for students who want to refresh their techniques while they are away from the studio. DVDs are beneficial for any Hapkido enthusiast.

  • Q: I want to become a Hapkido instructor. Are there any job opportunities as a Hapkido instructor and/or school owner?
    A: There are four different stages to becoming an instructor. Each level has certain qualifications including Hapkido belt level and time commitment for instructor training.      1) Training Instructor: Must be an advanced belt in Hapkido and have finished part of the training course.
    2)     Assistant Instructor: Must be a red belt or above and have finished the assistant instructor training course.
    3)     Instructor: Must be a Black Belt in Jang Mu Won Hapkido and have finished the instructor training course.
    4)     Official Jang Mu Won Instructor (Sa Bum Nim): Must be 3rd Dan in Jang Mu Won Hapkido and certified from the Jang Mu Won Hapkido Association (JMWHA).At this level you can officially open a school as long as you are in good standing as a member of Jang Mu Won. You must get permission from your direct master.We are always looking for qualified instructors and individuals who have passion and energy for Hapkido. We are looking for positive role models to add to our Jang Mu Won family. We provide the training courses necessary for someone who wants to be an instructor or future leader within our organization. Instructors are not born but built. Speak to your Master/Head Instructor for more information.