Haidong Gumdo – Korean Sword Martial Arts in Ankeny, Iowa

School of Korean Sword

Haidong Gumdo is a traditional Korean sword martial art focused on discipline, focus, physical conditioning, and structured sword training.

At Furious Fox Sword & Defense in Ankeny, Iowa, students train in authentic Haidong Gumdo through forms, cutting practice, footwork, and traditional martial development.

FFSD is affiliated with the World Haidong Gumdo Federation style. Headmaster D. Wathen studied Haidong Gumdo and Kendo (Daehan Gumdo) in Seoul, South Korea and is a nationally licensed instructor there and has taught frequently at the WHGDF headquarters dojangs.

This sword program is suitable for beginners as well as experienced martial artists seeking a deeper study of traditional swordsmanship.

Master Wathen (second from right) receives his Plaque of Appointment, a Korean national instructor license to teach Haidong Gumdo in South Korea.

What Will You Learn?

Students in Haidong Gumdo training develop:

Traditional Korean sword forms (kata-style sequences)
Controlled cutting practice
Footwork and movement training
Focus and mental discipline
Timing, distance, and coordination
Safe weapon handling

Who This Program is For

Haidong Gumdo is ideal for:

Adults looking for structured martial arts training
Students interested in swordsmanship
Beginners with no martial arts experience
Practitioners of traditional martial arts
Students seeking focus and discipline training

Is Haidong Gumdo Safe?

Yes.

Training is structured progressively with safety equipment and instructor supervision.

Students begin with their fundamentals with a "safety sword" (안전 검)—a firm foam training sword—before advancing to wooden or aluminum (목검 / 거검) training swords.

Students never engage in sparring drills without the "safety sword" no matter what rank or level.

What Makes This Different

Unlike sports, Haidong Gumdo emphasizes:

Traditional sword training methodology
Structured forms and cutting progression
Mental discipline and focus development
A balance of physical and technical training
Deep sense of etiquette, respect for authority, and reflection on how personal actions affect others

FAQ

Brief Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Haidong Gumdo?
A traditional Korean sword martial art focused on discipline, forms, and controlled sword training.

Do I need experience?
No. Beginners are welcome.

Do I need my own sword?
No. Equipment guidance is provided.

Contact Today!