How will Kuk Sool Won™ help me?
Kuk Sool can benefit men, women and children of all ages. Through diligent practice, Kuk Sool training will develop strength, quickness, balance, timing, flexibility and coordination. At the same time, powers of concentration, self-discipline, and self-control significantly improve. In addition, faithful practice will enhance circulation and digestion, reduce problems of the back and joints, help in weight loss, and help to develop and maintain a youthful appearance. These benefits will positively affect all aspects of your life.
Meditation, removing thoughts from your mind, leaves a clear, reenergized mind and body that is able to concentrate on the present task. In addition, meditation instills self-control and self-discipline. Overall, meditation strengthens the spirit, mental well-being and brings balance to a student's life.
Stretching and body conditioning exercises (mohm puhl gi) condition the total body. They create smooth, flexible and strong muscles externally and condition internal organs as well. This can be especially beneficial for injured people or people with back problems. In fact, Kuk Sool has been recommended by physicians as part of a rehabilitation program.
Breathing exercises (ki cho jah ki) increase oxygen flow to the lungs, heart and mind which bolster an individual's alertness and mental outlook. Moreover, breathing control exercises, such as ki cho jah ki, provide an opportunity for students to clear their minds which will improve their ability to focus and concentrate. These exercises also tone and strengthen internal organs. According to Korean tradition, those who develop their "Ki" (internal power) through breathing exercises have long and healthful lives.
Basic hand techniques (soo ki) and Basic kicking techniques (johk sool) condition and strengthen the upper and lower body, respectively. By executing hand strikes and kicks repeatedly, students acquire increased stamina and the balance and coordination needed to strike with precision, fluidity and power.
Falling techniques (nak bub), after becoming proficient, allow a person to fall without getting hurt. Another benefit is body conditioning: practicing falling techniques strengthens internal organs and tones connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments; with repeated practice, the body becomes "tighter" and better-able to withstand the effects of falling. Each individual is allowed to progress at his or her own pace according to their abilities.
Forms practice (hyung) combines basic hand and kicking techniques in a pattern of "connected moves." This provides the foundation of a student's martial arts training: timing, balance, speed, coordination, and control -- all are invaluable to the martial artist. The practiced Kuk Sool student trains to move as elegantly and effortlessly as flowing water.
The five principles of forms are:
Eyes:
bright and clear
Mind: calm and focused
Body: soft (low, stable, supple and
relaxed)
Feet: slow and precise
Hands: fast and controlled


