Technique Overview
The circle roll with slap and circle flip with slap build upon the sideways breakfall foundation. These techniques are essential for self-defense scenarios where one arm is trapped during a throw, as well as for controlled falling demonstrations.
Foundational Positioning
The circle roll with slap combines two previously learned techniques: the circle roll and the sideways breakfall. Rather than rising to the left knee, the practitioner remains flat on the left side of the body with shoulder, hip, and knee planted firmly on the ground.
Slap Placement and Body Position
The slap must be executed in front of the body, adjacent to the torso, to effectively absorb impact. Practitioners commonly make the mistake of slapping behind their momentum or rising onto their elbows instead of maintaining a completely flat position throughout the technique.
Airborne Circle Flip Mechanics
The circle flip requires upward momentum rather than downward motion to allow proper body rotation. The practitioner should look outward during execution while lifting the non-working leg and pushing upward with the working leg to generate sufficient lift for a complete aerial rotation.
Leg Coordination and Timing
The lift of the opposite leg combined with an upward push from the working leg propels the body into the air with enough time to rotate and land flat. This synchronized leg action prevents falling onto the shoulder first and ensures the entire body reaches the ground simultaneously.
Single-Side Impact Method
Rather than using both feet to break the fall, the practitioner should keep the non-slapping leg elevated throughout the descent to prevent ankle injury. The lateral body surface alone provides sufficient impact absorption when properly conditioned.
Circular Motion Integration
The arm, leg, and entire body must move in coordinated circular arcs from front to back. The practitioner should be positioned in the slapping alignment before ground contact, ensuring the body is pre-emptively ready for impact absorption.
Training Principles and Safety
Breakfall techniques require consistent, patient practice on padded surfaces as they contradict natural body responses to falling. Regular training builds the muscle memory necessary for instinctive execution during unexpected falls outside controlled environments.
How To Circle Roll/Flip With Slap | Hapkido
Key Takeaways
- •Technique Overview
- •Foundational Positioning
- •Slap Placement and Body Position
- •Airborne Circle Flip Mechanics
Detailed instruction on how to apply the sideways breakfall when rolling or flipping sideways. Extremely important for being able to perform Hapkido self defense. Circle Roll video: https://youtu.be/Q6PX1vUOUPs Side Fall video: https://youtu.be/eJT9WDxzSJc
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about hapkido circular throw?
This video covers technique overview, foundational positioning, slap placement and body position. It provides detailed instruction from Matt Hinkamp.
How long does it take to learn hapkido circular throw?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing hapkido circular throw?
The arm, leg, and entire body must move in coordinated circular arcs from front to back. The practitioner should be positioned in the slapping alignment before ground contact, ensuring the body is pre-emptively ready for impact absorption.
