Chang's Hapkido Academy

Grandmaster Gedo Chang's Hapkido martial arts schools emphasises practical self-defence, confidence, balance and fitness.

The ancient Korean martial art of Hapkido is made up of three components: ‘hap’ – coordination of mind and body, ‘ki’ – inner energy, and ‘do’ – a self-controlled and disciplined life. The centre maintains that it is more defensive than other far-eastern fighting forms, teaching students how to subdue an opponent without causing serious injury. But don’t fret - they admit that in order to defend against punches, kicks and other aggressive manoeuvres you’ve got to learn them first.

Gedo Chang has started his empire of martial arts schools near Chicago and opened his first centre – or dojang - in London in 2001, moving to their current location in Blackfriars in 2003. He personally trains all his head instructors and regularly visits the schools. The centre is open five days a week and offers individual and group classes for all ages. It’s not all throwing each other around in pyjamas though – the club organises social events for members throughout the year.