Customer Reviews

Dochang Journal - Level One

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This book opens with the phrase "write in this book". The student is encouraged to participate in learning techniques, making notes about what works and how, not just repeating what he/she has been told to do. This interactive structured approach approaches the teaching of Hapkido from an academic perspective. As a Hapkido Instructor for years I appreciate this innovation. This is a new method which allows for a student-focused/user-friendly format that lets the student organize concepts and ideas. Each journal is designed for specific rank levels. This first one is for the beginning Hapkido student, white belt level. As with any workbook, you have to see it and use it to understand its value. This is a good idea, try it and you will like it!

For an entry level book on Hapkido I had hoped the author would have had more to say. I purchased the three volumes Mr. Sims has for sale and was unfortunately dissapointed in all three books. He saddly does not present deep insight or understanding into the art of Hapkido. Instead, he details the art in a very limited manner. I believe this may be because he is only a 3rd Degree Black Belt and in Hapkido you need to be at least a 4th Dan Black Belt to be considered an instructor. I am not attempting to criticize him on his effort. It is simply his overall understanding and presentation of the art appears to be very limited. The book does have some nice photos, however.