Joint-locking techniques allow a weaker person to overcome a much stronger adversary by reversing the power of the stronger. Using these techniques with balance and speed, a student can joint-lock, throw, control and/or redirect an opponent. When performed properly, these techniques use the weakness of your opponent¹s joints and vital points against him or her.

Animal techniques are based upon the movements and/or characteristics of certain "martial" animals. Balance and speed resulting in tremendous strength are characteristics borrowed from the praying mantis (sah mah gi), with its heavy head and long legs. The snake (bahm) is completely defensive, only striking when threatened or attacked. The fighting principle learned from the snake is a defensive attack that allows the entire body to strike as a single force. On the other hand, the tiger (ho rahng ee) is entirely offensive. Kuk Sool recognizes the tiger's speed and body weight to aggressively pounce upon his prey. Another attack animal is the eagle (dohk soo ri): it frightens its prey then attacks from above and behind. In Kuk Sool, eagle techniques often begin with faked techniques followed by a grab to pressure points with penetrating fingers. Like the eagle, the crane (hak) is an aggressor. However, the crane utilizes loose, relaxed and quick moves exhibiting a softer power than the eagle. The crane focuses total energy on one point with a long-ranged, relaxed strike. Korean martial arts employ only the basic fighting principles of the "martial" animals. With the fact that people are not animals, Korean martial arts do not try to imitate the animals.

Weapon training perfects the balance between body and weapon. With assiduous practice, weapon training is as beneficial to the mind as to the body. It demands concentration and self-control to avoid injury; also, it aids physical conditioning from performing the task.

Specialized training introduces students to higher-level techniques, pressure-point training, and advanced hand strikes and kicks. Also, sparring training is offered by notably proficient instructors (sparring gear is mandatory). In addition, specific instruction is given on how current training can be useful in women's self-defense and street fighting situations.

Mental training is evidenced throughout Kuk Sool training, whether in meditation, forms practice, weapons training, etc. In addition, mental training is the basis of student conduct. Students are expected to display a high level of respect, self-control, and
discipline during each class. In Kuk Sool, mental training is crucial: the body is not strong without a strong mind.

In conclusion, Kuk Sool training influences students in a powerful way: it acknowledges the "whole" student -- not only the physical being -- but equally important -- the mental being. In this way, martial arts is different from other sports because most sports concentrate entirely on physical conditioning. From Kuk Sool training, a person can expect to be physically stronger, more flexible and healthier overall. In addition, a person can expect, from mental training, to exhibit more self-control and self-discipline which account for a calmer disposition. Since Kuk Sool incorporates both physical and mental training, the "whole" student -- body, mind and spirit -- is strengthened. As a result, a person attains harmony, good health, and mental well-being.