What is Pil Sung Do? A Complete Guide to This Unique Martial Art in Surrey

If you’re exploring martial arts in Surrey, you may have come across the name Pil Sung Do. At first glance, it may seem like just another martial arts programme. 

But look deeper, and you’ll find a comprehensive, modern discipline—engineered not only for self-defence, but for lifelong personal growth.

Created in the UK by the late Grand Master Seif–El-Nasr Hammouda, Pil Sung Do is unlike any other system. It’s a style rooted in experience across a dozen martial arts, adapted for the modern world, and taught with the belief that everyone—from young children to adults—can benefit from the structure, confidence, and mindset that martial arts can provide.

Whether you’re interested in martial arts for kids, empowering martial arts for women, or meaningful adult fitness and self-defence, this guide will show you what makes Pil Sung Do one of the most distinctive and impactful martial arts in Surrey.

A Modern Martial Art with a Lasting Legacy

Pil Sung Do was founded in 1990 by Grand Master Seif–El-Nasr Hammouda, a 9th Dan martial artist born in Egypt and later based in the UK. His aim was to create a system that offered more than fighting technique. He wanted to develop an art that built strong, capable individuals—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Translated, “Pil Sung Do” means “The Art of Certain Victory.” But this victory isn’t about defeating others—it’s about overcoming internal obstacles: fear, distraction, doubt, and self-limitation. 

Grand Master Hammouda’s legacy lives on through the instructors and students who continue to practise and teach his art at Pil Sung Do academies across Surrey.

Influences Behind Pil Sung Do

Grand Master Hammouda’s background spans an extraordinary range of systems. Each brought something different to the table—whether striking power, internal discipline, grappling control, or mental focus.

Here’s a closer look at some of the disciplines that informed his development of Pil Sung Do:

Judo

Originating in Japan, Judo is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on throws, holds, and submissions. It teaches how to use an opponent’s energy against them, making it ideal for self-defence without relying on strength alone.

Shotokan Karate

A traditional Japanese striking art known for deep stances, powerful linear techniques, and structured kata. Shotokan places strong emphasis on discipline, control, and formality.

Boxing

A Western combat sport centred on footwork, timing, head movement, and punches such as the jab, cross, hook, and uppercut. It is direct, effective, and demands strong conditioning.

Greco-Roman Wrestling

An Olympic wrestling style that restricts holds to the upper body. It builds explosive power, balance, and control in close-contact situations.

Fencing

The European art of sword combat, now a modern Olympic sport. It enhances reflexes, precision, and tactical thinking—skills applicable even in unarmed combat.

Tae Kwon-Do

A Korean striking art best known for its fast, dynamic kicks and jumping techniques. It also instils respect, courtesy, and perseverance, particularly in younger students.

Choi Kwang-Do

A relatively modern martial art that emphasises biomechanical efficiency, natural movement, and health. It focuses on longevity, flexibility, and non-competitive training.

Sul Ki Do, Kong Su Do, Mu Sa Do

These lesser-known Korean systems integrate elements of striking, forms, and self-defence. Each focuses on different aspects of the martial journey—fluid movement, coordination, and traditional values.

Khmer Boxing & Bokator

Traditional Southeast Asian combat arts known for their raw effectiveness and historical roots in battlefield combat. These arts include elbows, knees, grappling, and animal-inspired forms—blending spiritual and physical disciplines.

Although Pil Sung Do does not directly reproduce these systems, they represent the foundational experience that shaped Grand Master Hammouda’s understanding of what a martial art could and should be.

How Pil Sung Do is Structured: A Journey in Three Chapters

Pil Sung Do is designed as a lifelong journey of development, broken into three structured chapters:

1. Hwa Rang (White Belt to 1st Dan)

Named after an ancient Korean warrior class, this phase builds physical foundations, discipline, and emotional control. It is ideal for beginners and forms the backbone of martial arts for kids at Pil Sung Do academies.

2. Pil Sung (1st to 4th Dan)

In this intermediate phase, students refine their techniques and deepen their understanding of self-defence and personal responsibility. It’s a time of mentorship and self-reflection, where many begin assisting others in their martial journey.

3. Infiniti (5th Dan and beyond)

This chapter represents the idea that growth is never complete. Advanced students embrace mastery as a lifelong pursuit—balancing strength, humility, and self-awareness in everything they do.

Why Pil Sung Do Stands Out from Other Martial Arts in Surrey

While many traditional martial arts are based around sport or heritage, Pil Sung Do is:

• Non-competitive: There are no tournaments or point-scoring systems. Students grow by challenging themselves, not others.
  
  
• Philosophically driven: Character development is as important as technique.
  
  
• Inclusive and modern: Pil Sung Do is suited for all ages, genders, and ability levels.
  
  
• Practical: The focus is on usable, adaptable self-defence—not rigid routines.
  
  

If you’re looking for martial arts in Surrey that offer more than fitness, Pil Sung Do offers a complete framework for personal development.

Martial Arts for Kids: Building Focus, Confidence, and Discipline

Pil Sung Do is especially popular among parents seeking kids’ martial arts classes in Surrey. Through programmes like:

• Tiny Tigers (ages 5–9)
  
  
• Cadets (ages 10–16)
  
  

Children are taught more than kicks and punches. They learn:

• Respect for themselves and others
  
  
• How to stay calm under pressure
  
  
• The value of goal-setting and perseverance
  
  

These are the life skills that lead to better behaviour at school, stronger friendships, and greater self-esteem.

If you’re exploring martial arts for kids in Surrey, Pil Sung Do’s structured classes offer a proven way to help children thrive.

Martial Arts for Women: Confidence, Self-Defence, and Strength

Pil Sung Do is also a popular choice for those searching for martial arts for women in Surrey. It provides a welcoming, empowering environment where women of all ages and fitness levels can:

• Learn practical self-defence techniques
  
  
• Build strength and fitness without pressure or intimidation
  
  
• Join a supportive community of like-minded students
  
  

Unlike some styles that emphasise competition or aggression, Pil Sung Do places emphasis on control, awareness, and empowerment—making it an ideal martial art for women who want to feel strong and confident in everyday life.

Accessible, Inclusive, and Family-Friendly

Pil Sung Do isn’t just for individuals. It’s a martial art that welcomes families to train together. Many academies offer family martial arts classes, where parents and children over age 10 can share in the experience of learning, progressing, and growing together.

From kids and teens to adults and seniors, Pil Sung Do’s adaptable curriculum makes it possible for everyone to benefit—regardless of age, experience, or physical ability.

Where to Train in Pil Sung Do: Martial Arts in Surrey

Pil Sung Do is taught across several dedicated martial arts academies in Surrey, including:

• Frimley
  
  
• Lightwater
  
  
• Farnham
  
  

Class offerings include:

• Tiny Tigers (5–9 years)
  
  
• Cadets (10–16 years)
  
  
• Family Martial Arts (10+ years)
  
  
• Adult Martial Arts
  
  

Trial classes are available, so you can experience the welcoming environment and structured training approach before committing.

Final Thoughts: Pil Sung Do Is More Than a Martial Art

Pil Sung Do is not about memorising moves or winning trophies. It’s about becoming better—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether you’re looking to help your child gain confidence, empower yourself through martial arts for women, or explore a purposeful way to stay fit, this unique system offers something deeper.

At its core, Pil Sung Do is a path. One built on self-discipline, focus, resilience, and respect. And like any true martial art, it doesn’t end with a belt—it lives on in how you carry yourself through life.

If you’re searching for martial arts in Surrey with depth, integrity, and lifelong value, Pil Sung Do might just be the answer.