Initiating the Retreat with Hand Position

The practitioner steps backward with the right foot while maintaining high hand guards. As the body moves back, the hands are repositioned at chest level in preparation for the subsequent defensive technique.

Palm and Wrist Orientation

One hand moves to palm-up position while the other transitions to a knife-hand configuration with the blade edge facing upward. This hand positioning establishes the foundation for the upcoming defensive movement.

Lateral Step with Wrist Control

The practitioner executes a side step while directing both hands toward wrist-level contact points. This positioning allows for potential wrist manipulation or control during the retreat sequence.

Foot Stomp and Release Mechanics

Beginning with the right foot positioned as though applying downward pressure, the practitioner then releases and steps back with the left foot. Both hands grip and pull upward while the shoulders press backward, creating a powerful defensive posture.

Two-Hand Gripping and Arm Manipulation

The practitioner grips with both hands and executes a downward pull while turning the head to track the opponent. A left step back occurs as the left hand presses the inside of the opponent's arm behind their back.

Elbow Control and Rotational Footwork

The right hand slides along the opponent's elbow and pulls downward while the right foot rotates and grounds the stance. This creates leverage for continued arm control and repositioning.

Upward Arm Extension

With arm positioning secured internally, the practitioner executes an upward extension or press through the opponent's limb. This movement completes the arm control phase of the retreat sequence.

Knee Control Options and Backward Pull

The practitioner can apply either a gripping control behind the opponent's knee or an alternative striking method on the left side of the shoulder. A backward step with pulling hand actions opens distance while maintaining control.

Dual-Hand Grip and Leg Positioning

Both hands execute a gripping action with the left leg moving over or through the opponent's centerline in a single coordinated motion. This simultaneous hand and leg action creates a locking opportunity.

Lock Application and Completion

The leg is drawn back slowly as a locking mechanism engages on the opponent's body. The practitioner maintains tension through repeated pulling and pressing motions before concluding the technique.

Black Belt Level 2 Hapkido Step-by-step

Master Hwang’s World Class Taekwondo

Retreating Step

2 min read·10 key moments·PT4M3S video

Key Takeaways

•Initiating the Retreat with Hand Position
•Palm and Wrist Orientation
•Lateral Step with Wrist Control
•Foot Stomp and Release Mechanics

Related Techniques

Angle Off Lateral Movement Push Off

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about retreating step?

This video covers initiating the retreat with hand position, palm and wrist orientation, lateral step with wrist control. It provides detailed instruction from Master Hwang’s World Class Taekwondo.

How long does it take to learn retreating step?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 10-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.