In Hapkido, as students advance through belt rank, they will learn techniques and defenses against weaponry. At Draco Academy, we teach both control and utilization of weapons through training. Various weapons of advancement include a knife, cane, rope, nunchaku (nunchucks), sword even firearms. › Read more
Sparring is a form of training that is a type of ‘free-form’ fighting. In Taekwondo, the art of sparring emphasizes kicks and punches thrown from a mobile stance, including a system of blocks, kicks, punches, and open-handed strikes and may also include various take-downs or sweeps, throws, and joint locks. Sparring is one of the techniques that are › Read more
Taekwondo hand attacks make up fast combinations of strikes which can leave an opponent stunned and unable to defend himself. They are executed from standing, jumping, spinning or rushing forward. Taekwondo hand strikes can be separated into two distinct styles: Closed hand strikes (jireugi) Open hand techniques (chigi) In Hapkido, hand attacks consist of punches, hand › Read more
Blocking techniques are to prevent an opponent’s attack from entering into your sphere of safety. To prevent the opponent from attacking its target, you must intercept and redirect the attacker’s attack. Blocks are also used offensively by hurting the attacking limb of the attacker. › Read more
Recent Posts
April 5, 2018
There’s no better feeling than knowing you are independent and can look after yourself. That includes being able to defend yourself in a dangerous situation. However, self-defense classes for women can offer far more than the ability to defend yourself, they can improve your focus, self-awareness and all-around fitness too. Here are five benefits associated
March 20, 2018
Most students who enroll with us here at Draco Academy want to know how quickly they can progress through the Taekwondo belt system. Essentially, how quickly can they achieve their ultimate goal to be a coveted black belt? It goes without saying that to pass the black belt test requires considerable dedication, hard work, and
March 7, 2018
Classes are an investment in time, energy and money. Also, regular attendance is important to attain advanced level skills. Consider these five tips if your child is reluctant to attend classes. 1. Be mindful of your child’s activities before class. Are they having fun playing with toys? If so, that can wait until after class.
December 4, 2017
At some point in the life of a young person, he or she will likely encounter a bully. At school, or when hanging out with friends, children must learn to deal with bullies in a way that is safe, smart, and effective. It’s hard to teach children how to deal with the adversity of
November 16, 2017
Everyone knows what a black belt is, but did you know that only 1 in 10,000 martial arts students earn a black belt? With so much at stake, it would be foolish to just “wing it” the day of. An achievement like a black belt needs physical and mental preparation if one wants to earn
November 14, 2017
Martial arts, in all forms, are widely practiced and have a wide range of benefits. All forms support an active lifestyle, encourage focus and stillness, aid in weight loss, increase self-confidence levels, help tone muscles, and improve cardiovascular health. Most students at our Illinois martial arts school in Homewood hone in on hapkido or taekwondo