Haidong Gumdo is a Korean martial art that involves using a sword as a method of self-mastery. Beginning students train with a wooden sword in fundamental exercises and sword patterns, or forms, to develop concentration, physical fitness, and confidence. Advanced students begin to train in two-person sword drills designed to teach timing, distance, and impact. Black belt students begin training with a real sword with a sharp edge to practice cutting bamboo, straw bundles and even fruit from the air.
At Lotus Blossom school of Martial Arts, we use Haidong Gumdo as a human performance activity. Using both traditional as well as modern sports science to challenge our senses and thereby strengthen them, gaining self-mastery and self-discovery.