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Day 3 of the GHA Korea Martial Arts and Culture Tour

EMA Group’s Seoul Adventure: Day 3 – Arrows, Swords, BBQ, and Karaoke Shenanigans!

Welcome back to our wild ride with the EMA group on our martial arts trip to Seoul for the GHA Korea Martial Arts Seminar and Culture Tour 2024! Day 3 brought a mix of historical skills, mouth-watering food, and a karaoke showdown that we won’t soon forget. Buckle up for another fun-filled day!

Morning: Breakfast Buffoonery

We kicked off Day 3 with another glorious buffet breakfast at the hotel. The spread was so impressive that we could practically hear our taste buds cheering. Waffles, rice, and a plethora of Korean dishes lined the table, making it a challenge to decide what to eat first. A few of us attempted to channel our inner martial artists by grabbing healthy options, but let’s be honest—most of us ended up with plates overflowing with everything from egg to spicy kimchi. “I’m carb-loading for the archery!” we told ourselves.

Morning: Off to Songnam City

After breakfast, we hopped on the bus for a scenic ride to Songnam City. As we rolled through the streets, we had a chat and took some photos. The anticipation was palpable—traditional Korean archery and sword cutting? Talk about stepping into a historical epic! Exciting stuff!

Mid-Morning to Afternoon: Traditional Korean Archery and Sword Cutting Seminar

We first stopped at a traditional palace/fort for a full group shot before heading up the steep hill to the archery and cutting location. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our instructors, who were as enthusiastic as we were, despite the extreme heat of the day. After a great demonstration and a quick safety briefing, we donned our gear and picked up the bows. It was time to channel our inner archers!

As we took aim, we quickly discovered that hitting the target was more challenging than it looked. Our instructor chuckled and reminded us that practice makes perfect. After a few rounds of laughter and friendly competition, we finally hit our stride. Grand Master Greg Walters (Chairman of GHA Australia) did especially well.

Next up was the sword cutting seminar. Armed with traditional swords, we attempted to slice through various bamboo poles. It was both exhilarating and a bit nerve-wracking! The expert instruction from the Masters saw us all manage to cut through the Bamboo.

Evening: All-You-Can-Eat Korean BBQ Dinner

After all that hard work (and a bit of sword-swinging chaos), we were ready for some serious refuelling. We headed to an all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ restaurant, and let me tell you, it was glorious! The sizzling sound of marinated meat hitting the grill was music to our ears.

We piled our plates high with bulgogi, samgyeopsal, and every side dish imaginable. “Just one more round!” became our battle cry as we went back for seconds—and thirds—while swapping stories and laughing about our earlier antics. The camaraderie over grilled meat was unbeatable!

Late Evening: Norebang – The Karaoke Showdown

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed to a norebang (karaoke room) for a night of singing and silliness. Some of us took it seriously, belting out classics like “Step by Step” with all the passion of a true diva, while others just wanted to have fun and throw in some questionable dance moves.

While not the most glamorous norebang, it was still a lot of fun! “Who needs pitch when you have enthusiasm?” someone shouted as we collectively attempted to sing “Bohemian Rhapsody,” resulting in a chorus that could only be described as unique. We laughed, cheered each other on, and embraced our inner rock stars.

Wrapping Up Day 3

As we wrapped up the night, our voices hoarse but our hearts full, we reflected on another amazing day. From traditional archery, sword cutting, to all-you-can-eat BBQ and karaoke chaos, Day 3 was a whirlwind of fun and friendship.

We returned to the hotel, exhausted but exhilarated, ready for whatever Day 4 had in store. One thing was certain: this trip was bringing us closer together—and giving us plenty of hilarious memories to cherish! Stay tuned for more adventures from our unforgettable trip to Seoul on the GHA Korea Martial Arts and Culture Tour 2024!

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Day 2 of the GHA Korea Martial Arts and Culture Tour

EMA Group’s Seoul Adventure: Day 2 – Kicks, Grading, and Shopping Shenanigans!

Welcome back to our epic journey with the EMA group! Day 2 in Seoul was packed with action, training, delicious food, and a healthy dose of retail therapy. Grab your favourite snack (preferably something Korean), and let’s dive into our fun-filled day!

Morning: Breakfast Buffet Bonanza

We started the day at the hotel with a breakfast buffet that was nothing short of spectacular. With options ranging from fluffy pancakes to spicy kimchi, it was a true feast. The competitive spirit was alive as we piled the food onto our plates. “I’ll take the waffles, kimchi and the toast, thank you very much!” was the mantra of the day. Afterward, we felt fuelled and ready to take on anything—except perhaps a marathon.

Mid-Morning: Hapkido Seminar and Grading

With our bellies full, we headed to a Hapkido seminar. The energy in the room was electric as we warmed up and got into the groove of things. We practiced kicks, throws, and some impressive self-defence moves that would make even the most skilled ninja envious.

As the seminar progressed, the moment of truth arrived: grading! Our hearts raced as our fellow students showcased their skills. Amidst the seriousness, we couldn’t help but exchange cheeky glances and inside jokes. “If they don’t break a board, we’re blaming the breakfast buffet!” one of our friends joked, drawing chuckles from those who heard it.

Late Morning: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Bonanza

Next up was a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu seminar. This was our chance to roll with the best and learn some slick ground moves. Let’s just say, by the end, we were all experts at the art of awkwardly grappling with each other. Scott Sabeomnim had a roll with the under 17 champion BJJ blue belt that was helping to teach the seminar, he was good.

Lunch: Bulgogi Bliss

After all that hard work (and a bit of clumsiness), we were starving! We headed to a local restaurant for a bulgogi lunch. The savoury marinated beef, sizzling hot, was pure bliss. We piled our plates high and couldn’t resist going back for seconds—because why not? Everyone had a great time and were well and truly full by the time we left.

Afternoon Adventures: Shopping at Myeongdong

With our appetites satisfied, we ventured to Myeongdong, a shopping paradise. The streets were alive with vendors selling everything from skincare products to delicious street food. We split into small groups, and the hunt was on!

There were plenty of shenanigans—like impromptu photo shoots with oversized hats and some seriously questionable fashion choices.

The group then split up, some continued shopping while the rest of us need a break and what better way to unwind than with some furry friends? Our visit to a cat café was a delightful pit stop. Picture this: a cozy space filled with playful kitties lounging around while we sipped our coffees and ice teas, and tried to ignore the fact that we were all secretly plotting to take one home.

The cats, indifferent to our presence, were the real stars of the show. We snapped endless pictures and tried to coax them into posing. Spoiler alert: they had other plans. They were still cute though.

Late Afternoon: Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace

Our next stop was the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built by the Joseon dynasty. Though it was a very hot day, we were still in awe of the intricate architecture and beautiful gardens. The stark contrast between the traditional palace and the modern cityscape of Seoul was truly a sight to behold.

Evening: Shopping in Hongdae

As the sun began to set, we headed to Hongdae, another shopping hotspot known for its youthful vibe. The streets were buzzing with energy, street performers, and all kinds of shops. We wandered through boutiques and cosmetics stores.

Wrapping Up Day 2

As we wrapped up our day, our bags were full, our hearts were light, and we were all buzzing with excitement from the experiences we’d shared. Day 2 was a whirlwind of martial arts, delicious food, and unforgettable moments.

As we drifted off to sleep that night, we couldn’t help but dream of more adventures to come. Here’s to more kicks, laughs, and maybe even a few more questionable fashion choices on this amazing trip! Stay tuned for more of our escapades in Seoul on the GHA Korea Martial Arts and Culture Tour 2024!

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Day 0/1 of the GHA Korea Martial Arts and Culture Tour

Day 0/1: EMA Group’s Seoul Adventure: Day 0/1 – The Journey Begins!

Ah, the thrill of adventure! Our EMA group’s martial arts trip to Seoul for the Global Hapkido Association’s (GHA) Korea Martial Arts and Culture Tour kicked off with all the excitement of a high-energy training session. From the moment we boarded the shuttle bus to Melbourne Airport, we knew this was going to be a trip to remember. Let’s dive into the highlights of our Day 0/1!

The Shuttle Shuffle

We piled into the shuttle bus, filled with anticipation and excitement. The drive to the airport felt like the opening scene of an epic movie—friends chatting and laughing, some ridiculous jokes being thrown around. Cue the laughter!

Flights of Fancy

After check-in and a few rounds of airport selfies, we boarded our flight to Singapore. As we settled in, we made sure to have our travel essentials ready: neck pillows, snacks, and—most importantly—queueing the martial arts movies for the flight!

Layover in Singapore

Once we arrived in Singapore, we marvelled at the airport, unfortunately though, it was quite late, so a lot of the shops were closed. We had just enough time to get some snacks, have a quick look around and have a rest before we had to board our next flight. Between movies and snacks, we cheered each other on as we navigated through our travel fatigue and excitement.

Touchdown in Incheon

Finally, we landed in Incheon, and the excitement hit us like a roundhouse kick! We were met at the airport by Grand Master Choong Woo Lee, the head of GHA Korea, who organised the quick shuttle bus ride that brought us to the Yongsan Ibis Ambassador Hotel. We felt like true warriors as we checked in, ready to rest up for the martial arts adventures ahead.

Exploring Yongsan Station

With introductions done, we set out to explore Yongsan Station, a bustling hub of shops and eateries. We divided into small groups, with some of us on a quest for the best Korean snacks, while others were simply trying to navigate the signage (which was a fun challenge at times!). The excitement of being in a new city was palpable, and we couldn’t help but capture it all with our phones.

Greeting Grand Master Lee

After a bit of freshening up, we gathered to meet the legendary Grand Master Lee (founder and President of GHA International) and Master Tom Adam (Canberra Martial Arts Master and Vice Chairman of GHA Australia). They greeted us with warm smiles and a sense of humour that instantly put us at ease. We could already feel the energy shifting; we were in for an inspiring experience!

Group Dinner

After our adventures at the station, we gathered for dinner with the tour group. The feast was a delicious introduction to Korean cuisine. We dove into bibimbap, bulgogi, and, of course, the mandatory kimchi. As we passed dishes around, jokes flew as fast as chopsticks, and we bonded over shared stories and, for some of us, soju.

Evening Stroll along Cheonggyecheon

To wrap up the day, we headed to the stunning Cheonggyecheon Stream. The illuminated waterway was the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll, and the atmosphere was magical. As we wandered, we took turns posing for goofy photos, capturing the essence of our adventure. We even had a spontaneous martial arts poses by the stream—complete with exaggerated moves and lots of laughter!

Wrapping Up Day 0/1

Exhausted but exhilarated, we finally made our way back to the hotel, already reminiscing about our day. From the laughter-filled shuttle ride to meeting our esteemed masters, every moment was filled with joy and camaraderie. We crashed into our beds, dreams swirling with martial arts moves and the promise of more adventures to come.

Stay tuned as we continue our journey through Seoul and the GHA Martial Arts and Culture Tour — who knows what tomorrow will bring? One thing’s for sure: with this group, it’s bound to be entertaining!

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Eagle Martial Arts Blog Image
COVID-19 UPDATE – 25/10/2021 – TRAINING RECOMMENCES

TRAINING RECOMMENCES OCTOBER 30 2021!

We are happy to announce that EMA will now reopen for training from this Saturday, October 30!

All classes will be held at the dojang (gym) from this date onwards. 

Please note, government restrictions state that you must be fully vaccinated to attend training. For more information please visit this website.

If you are 16 years of age or over, please be prepared to show your proof of vaccination before entering the premises. 

Please bring a mask that you can train in as we may wear them when doing close quarter training such as techniques or pad work.

If you have been to or had any contact with people who have been to these exposure sites, do not come to training and follow the VIC Gov’s public health advice https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/exposure-sites

There are some procedures that must stay in place as per the VIC Gov’s requirements. Your cooperation is much appreciated.

  1. Contact tracing is an essential requirement for all business operations. Please check in electronically using the barcode at the entrance upon arrival on each visit to the EMA dojang/dojo (gym). This is required for both adults and kids classes.
  2. When entering the dojang/dojo; Please sanitise your hands. Masks must be worn indoors when not participating in training. This includes all students that are not yet on the mats and parents/spectators (applies to all people that are 12 years old and over).
  3. Always adhere to our usual standards of hygiene, clean dobok/gi (uniform), cuts or abrasions taped prior to class and wear appropriate training gear.
  4. Do not come to training if;
    1. You are sick with flu, cold or have had symptoms of COVID-19 in the past two weeks,
    2. Tested positive for COVID-19,
    3. Are awaiting test results for COVID-19,
    4. Have been in contact with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19,
    5. You are a returning traveller from interstate or overseas until you have been processed through the usual procedures.
  5. If you are over 16 years of age you must be double vaccinated. If you are under 16 years of age and not vaccinated or single vaccinated, you can come to training normally (until such time as 12yo+ are at 70-80% double vaccinated, then the double vaccination rule will also apply to the 12yo+ age group). Please be prepared to show your proof of vaccination as per Vic Gov Covid restriction requirements. 

While we can’t wait to get back to training it is important that we follow the rules, especially as numbers of cases are still on the rise.  


Thank you again for your support. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Let’s train covid safe.

We can’t wait to see you all again soon!

EMA Team

#backtotraining #lockdownending #kidsmartialarts #hapkido #bjj #brazilianjiujitsu #selfdefence

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EMA Kids Martial Arts Gif2
Why Martial Arts Are Great For Your Kids
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If you are a parent, we are certain that your child’s health and development are among the highest priorities in your life. There is so much you can do, so much conflicting advice on what are the best things a kid should do to grow up happy, healthy and equipped with all the right skills to tackle life.

We don’t have all the answers, but we are certain that training in martial arts is hands down one of the best practices for your children, let us explain why.

What are martial arts?

Karate? Taekwondo? Hapkido? Kicking? Punching? – Lifestyle, Mindset, Character-Building

For those that know martial arts only from pop culture, we would like to explain that it’s more than just kicking, punching and fighting.

For many, it’s a lifestyle, a mindset, and a deep philosophy.

Martial arts are often centuries old organized systems of practices and traditions that are practiced for physical, psychological and spiritual development and for learning self-defence skills. They have been a very important part of human history and continue to bring immense benefits to its practitioners to this day. The physical practice develops strength, coordination and endurance while building character, boosting self-confidence and self-control.

Another popular misconception is that it’s just for adults. This can’t be further from the truth. Unlike most sports and practices, martial arts don’t just train the body in isolation, but also the mind in equal measure. Martial arts as a solo journey encourages self-improvement stronger than team sports but also encompasses benefits of teamwork through training with, and supporting, other students in their journey.

Benefits of martial arts for children

Kids Martial Arts: Focus, Self-Defence, Fitness, Respect, Discipline & Teamwork

Like with everything else, if you put in the time, you will see the results. Martial arts are no different. Besides the mass of anecdotal evidence, many of the benefits for children and adults alike have been researched.

Let’s inspect the most prominent traits you will see in your children if they start practicing martial arts.  

Focus

The attention span of everyone is declining with the rise of technology and this is even truer for kids. The complex nature of martial arts movements and principles requires a level of focus and concentration that will undoubtedly improve the child’s focus and discipline. That’s why it’s better to start early, so they can use this focus in every area of their development.

Self-Defence and Environmental Awareness

Being aware in your surroundings and being able to defend yourself is one of our main pillars at Eagle Martial Arts. After all, martial arts were developed for this exact purpose. The cold truth is that it’s inevitable that at some point someone may bully your child and when this moment comes, their martial arts skills will be invaluable not only to be able to physically react, but even more importantly to resolve the situation calmly and without violence.

Fitness

Every martial arts consists of complex movements that mobilize the entire body. Training properly, with intent and focus, will develop strength, mobility, agility, stamina and balance. You will witness your child becoming stronger every week. They will start using their bodies functionally and you can be sure they will stay fit, healthy and active.

Respect

Respect to authority, elders and hierarchy is pivotal in traditional martial arts. There traits are ever disappearing in today’s world, but in martial arts they have not been lost. Your child will learn to be well mannered and respectful not only to the instructors but also to others around them. Furthermore, they will learn respect and appreciation for their own abilities.

Discipline and Teamwork

The environment in a martial arts school with its atmosphere of respect and honour inspires these values even in the most problematic of kids. The young ones learn that concentrating on a single task will inevitably lead to good results. All the challenges in the dojo/dojang teach problem solving that lend itself perfectly in the day-to-day life.

Despite being a solo activity, martial arts also build a very strong bond between practitioners because they face the same challenges, help each other overcome them and push each other to become better.

Eagle Martial Arts program for kids

Coordination, Behaviour, Self-Control, Discipline, Respect, Self-Respect

By now, you are probably convinced of the undeniable benefits a child can get by training martial arts. Here at Eagle Martial Arts, we take pride in developing a comprehensive curriculum that is specifically tailored to each age group in a way that helps the children grow as both martial artists and people while also being a lot of fun.

Starting as early as 3 years old, your little one can become an Eaglet at EMA. They will develop vital motor skills, coordination and well-mannered behaviour while having a lot of fun. The 3 and 4 year olds grow up every day and it’s important to satisfy their curiosity with meaningful and interesting tasks. We will help you do that while kick starting your child’s growth.

The next age group is the Little Eagles. We created a teaching method that we call “edu-tainment” for the 5- and 6-year-olds. In a fun and interesting manner, we teach our Little Eagles 8 pivotal life skills and traits:

  • Focus
  • Memory
  • Coordination
  • Self-control
  • Fitness
  • Discipline
  • Teamwork

The oldest children up to 13 years of age fall in to the Junior Martial Arts category. Here, we focus on incorporating all the previously learned skills in a holistic self-development approach. Children start learning more effective self-defence and control techniques. We also emphasize many verbal, psychological and verbal anti bully techniques.

The road from junior leads to teen and adult and quite possibly a lifetime journey in martial arts, rewarded by unwavering self-confidence, robust health and body and friendships for life.

Martial arts are perfect for children

Focus, Strength, Self-Improvement

It’s safe to say martial arts are perfect activity for kids. It takes commitment and consistency, but the rewards are well worth it. Guide your child in the early stages and it will thank you for it later in life.

If you feel inspired by the promise of focus, discipline and strength, maybe you will start your own martial arts journey alongside your child and walk the path of self-improvement together. There are classes at EMA suitable for every age and gender.

Studies on benefits of martial arts:

1. Psychosocial Benefits of the Martial Arts: Myth or Reality? A Literature Review

2. The effects of martial arts participation on mental and psychosocial health outcomes: a randomised controlled trial of a secondary school-based mental health promotion program

3. Health benefits of hard martial arts in adults: a systematic review

4. Getting Fit With Martial Arts

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EMA Hapkido Throw
What is Hapkido?
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Hapkido

The modern world is a much safer place than any other time in history. If you live in a developed country, chances are you will never have to use physical force to save your life, health, or dignity. 

But imagine that one day you are forced to defend yourself, your family, or your property and there is no other option in sight. At this very moment, the physical and mental skills you can apply are the single most valuable thing you possess.

As the ancient Chinese proverb goes “It is better to be a warrior in a garden, than a gardener in a war”. This still rings very true today.

Hapkido is a hybrid martial art designed for self-defense originating from Korea that includes a complete arsenal of techniques both for striking and on the ground. 

Our aim at Eagle Martial arts is to train Hapkido in a way that can be applied, not just practiced.

EMA Hapkido Board Break

What is Hapkido?

Martial Arts? Judo? Self Defence? Taekwondo? Karate?

Hapkido was created in Korea as a form of self-defense. The name literally means “The way of coordination and internal power” and it‘s characterized by combining dynamic striking, kicking, deflection techniques, throws, takedowns, grappling locks as well as a vast array of joint locking techniques.  

This makes Hapkido a complete martial art and one of the original “mixed martial arts”. The creator of the style Choi Yong-Sool adapted the Japanese art Daito-ryu Aiki jiu-jitsu when he returned to his country after spending 30 years in Japan. 

He and his followers saw the need to add more and more aspects to Hapkido from other martial arts, that have proven themselves to be applicable in real combat. Kicks and strikes from indigenous Taekkyon (parent style of modern Taekwondo) were added first, then various throws and ground fighting techniques from judo. 

The main goal of Hapkido is to rapidly subdue and render any attacker helpless without the use of brute force. Instead, practitioners seek to gain the advantage through manipulation of body position and applying leverage to incapacitate without the use of strength. The control over the opponent allows the Hapkido artist to choose to defuse the situation without causing harm or inflict serious damage if wanted. This makes Hapkido a preferred system for many law enforcement personnel throughout the world. 

Traditional Hapkido is based on 3 important principles.

  1. Principle of Nonresistance to force- this principle teaches to not act directly opposing the opponent’s force. Balance and fluidity are used to redirect and use the opponent’s force against them. 
  2. Principle of Circular motion- using circular motions allows the gathering of greater energy and using it in the techniques. All the movements in Hapkido are free-flowing and natural.
  3. Principle of water- in short, this means to fluidly adapt to the circumstances of the opponent and the surroundings. One must be able to adapt and respond to every situation. This principle also shows the flowing nature of the moves in Hapkido.

Of course, we can analyze these concepts in much greater detail, but perhaps we will do this in another article. This one is just to familiarize you with the basic principles and what you will learn if you choose to train Hapkido. 

Choi Yong Sul 1

How we train Hapkido at EMA

Kicking, Striking, Throwing, Techniques, Ground Work & Application

At Eagle Martial Arts we view martial arts to be much more than kicking and punching. Martial arts should teach you a wide array of skills and attributes. In addition to learning how to defend yourself physically, you will become confident, collected, and aware in a large range of situations.

Our Hapkido program can provide you with the complete toolset for this. We developed Eagle Martial Arts to fill many of the gaps between traditional martial arts and real-life scenarios. 

In the last couple of decades, the rise of the sport of Mixed Martial Arts exposed a lot of gaping holes in many traditional disciplines and beliefs. In addition, the large usage of cameras pretty much everywhere also documented many real altercations that everybody can watch on the internet. 

With this knowledge, we followed the example of early Hapkido masters and expanded the already very potent traditional style with some aspects from other battle-proven styles like Brazilian jiu-jitsu and kickboxing. The result is a comprehensive curriculum for the modern world. 

Still, we encompass all the values and techniques from traditional Hapkido and we are proudly a part of the Global Hapkido Association.

EMA Hapkido Class1

Even more benefits of Hapkido

Strength, Cardio, Flexibility, Stress Relief, Fun

Training in martial arts is a never-ending journey to self-improvement and immense mental development. But it’s also a great workout for the body. Systematic training will undoubtedly increase your muscle strength, flexibility, and cardio.

The flowing and non-resistant nature of Hapkido reduces the chance of injuries and harm significantly, especially in comparison with modern combat sports training. 

And last, but definitely not least one of the most beneficial aspects of training martial arts is stress relief. When you focus on perfecting the techniques you forget everything else in your life. All the real or perceived problems you have go away at least for the duration of the practice. 

Hapkido’s reliance on technique and precision rather than strength makes it perfect for all types of people. Your journey in Hapkido and martial arts is one of mastery of yourself, not others, and can begin at Eagle Martial Arts.

EMA Hapkido Ha Dan Dolyo

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