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Step 1
Check with your Dojung or Hapkido school to see whether uniforms are sold there. The uniform includes a loose-fitting jacket and trousers, usually made of cotton and polyester. Hapkido uniforms may be either all white or may have the distinctive diamond pattern with white lines on black fabric or black lines on white fabric. Verify the uniform with your instructor and check with online martial arts catalogs for pricing and availability as well.
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Step 2
Expect that your beginner's belt will be provided when you buy the uniform. The color of the belt indicates your level of proficiency; so you can expect that your instructor will let you know which color you need as you progress. Most schools will award you with the appropriate belt when you are ready for the next stage of learning.
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Step 3
Look for practice mats at local sporting goods stores. You will want a mat that is no less than two inches thick and covered with a durable material. Before making a purchase, check with online catalogs to compare prices and discover where you can get the best deal.
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Step 4
Examine the gear bags and protective gear at sports stores, but check with your instructor before you make a purchase. Beginners probably will not need anything except the uniform, belt, and mat. As you become more advanced, then you may need more protective gear. An online catalog will offer a great variety of items, probably much more than you will ever need.
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Step 5
Learn from Hapkido videos if you cannot find a Dojung or school in your locale. A standard web search will locate many online sources for videos and books, such as worldhapkido.com. Some sites will even let you view a small sample of a typical video. Check your public or school library for instructional Hapkido materials, as well.
