Curiosities of Western Ukraine. School of combat hopak in Ternopil

This martial art with the name of traditional dance is considered an authentic Ukrainian art. 

Cossacks once were called dancing warriors and combat hopak today is experiencing revival, especially in western Ukraine. At the training, they teach not only technique and skills, but also history and love for Ukraine. 

The combat hopak school in Ternopil has been existing for five years. It was founded by Vlad Boldyrev, who, together with Igor Ishchuk, teaches and trains about 100 children and youths 4 to 25 years old in several cells in the city.

Three hopak championships of Ukraine have already taken place at the Ternopil school. Aside from physical fitness, coaches pay much attention to patriotic and spiritual development of children – they hold regular lectures, tell about the history of Ukraine, visit Cossack graves together. And here is how Cossack workout looks like.