Martial Arts School

Hang a Sheep’s Head, Sell a Dog’s Meat – Fake Gong Fu

In an age where information is readily available on the various styles of Chinese martial arts, it is surprising to see how many fraudsters there are who present themselves with overblown rankings, dubious backgrounds, and poor teaching skills. The inexperienced students who are drawn to such a school are often persuaded that what they are…

Rou Shen Fa: Methods of Softening the Body 

Relaxing and becoming loose are words often heard while learning Taiji Quan, Xingyi, Bagua, and Liuhe Bafa.  Becoming loose is also required in the Shaolin arts, since being loose promotes efficiency which increases speed, and increased speed equals greater power. In Taiji Quan in particular, softness, which is not to be confused with being limp,…

“The Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins with a Single Step” – Lao Zi

Getting started in a Chinese martial arts program at our school can be guided by the saying from Lao Zi, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” This saying by the ancient sage has profound philosophical meanings.  The first step is that of expectations. A student must approach training with an…

Hierarchy in the Chinese Martial Arts School (Wushu Guan)

Chinese martial arts are steeped in culture and tradition. Honorific titles have profound significance, and they convey politeness, respect, and deference toward seniors and the elderly. Traditionally, in the Wushu Guan, or Kung Fu Kwoon, there are many honorific titles that indicate the hierarchy from the master to the lowest-ranking student. Some of the most…