Manawatu Hapkido, located in Palmerston North, New Zealand, is a well-established martial arts club founded by Malcolm Wright in 1992. Specialising in the art of Hapkido, a Korean martial art known for its dynamic self-defence techniques, Manawatu Hapkido offers a comprehensive training programme for individuals of all ages and sizes.
Hapkido is not just a sport but a highly effective martial art specifically designed to combat common street attacks. The art incorporates various techniques such as joint locks, strikes, throws, basic ground defence, and the use of weapons and everyday items. By learning Hapkido, individuals can gain confidence, endurance, power, and heightened awareness, ultimately improving themselves both physically and mentally.
The chief instructor at Manawatu Hapkido is Anthony (Antz) Dyer, a highly experienced practitioner who began his journey with the club in 1996. With over 20 years of experience in practising and instructing Hapkido, Antz holds a 4th Dan Black Belt and is a well-respected figure in the Manawatu martial arts community. He has trained with numerous senior martial artists and has provided self-defence courses to security personnel, police officers, prison guards, and other groups.
In addition to leading the Manawatu Club, Antz also serves as the senior instructor at the New Plymouth Taekwondo/Hapkido Club. He regularly travels to Taranaki to fine-tune their skills and oversee their grading process. Antz's dedication and expertise have earned him recognition, as he was awarded his 3rd Dan in September 2018 and successfully graded to 4th Dan in July 2020, making him a Master in Hapkido.
Manawatu Hapkido takes pride in its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, creating a positive environment for both adults and children to train and learn. The club offers classes for kids and adults, allowing everyone to benefit from the art of Hapkido. Whether you are looking to enhance your self-defence skills, improve your physical fitness, or simply want to be a part of a supportive community, Manawatu Hapkido welcomes you to explore what they have to offer.
To stay updated with the latest news and events, you can visit their website or contact them directly. With a strong commitment to self-improvement and a focus on practical self-defence, Manawatu Hapkido strives to empower individuals and equip them with the skills needed to protect themselves in real-life situations.