The
possession of knowledge does not kill the sense of wonder and mystery.
There is always more mystery.
(Anais Nin)
Two
parts
The beginners syllabus is split into two parts:
part 1 is about laying the foundation, learning to relax and
use your body, whereas parts 2 prepares you for the intermediate syllabus.
If you do not want to learn self defence, you are welcome to remain in
part 1.
Part 1
Part 1
is complete when the student has completed column 1 of our qigong ticksheet.
This means that they can perform all of the foundation exercises
proficiently without guidance.
In addition to the qigong, the student will also be making progress with (section 1)
of the form pattern and the beginners partner drills.
New way of moving
Part 1 is concerned
mainly with qigong, learning form pattern and learning to move in the tai
chi way. You learn how to yield, relax, connect and adapt.
Most new starters use their arms too much. Part 1 students are taught to use
their lower body instead.
This is one step on the path towards
whole-body movement.
Leaving part 1
The basic skills are pretty straightforward. You need to proficient at the
following:
Form
Partner work
Qigong
Without these fundamental
skills, you are not ready for part 2 and will run the risk of injury.
Dress code
It is customary for martial arts classes to have a dress code
and ours is no exception.
All students are expected to be wearing a class
T-shirt and kung fu trousers
by the time they reach beginners syllabus part 2.
Part 2
You will be given a white
sash to wear when
you commence part 2. This is a beginners belt.
Part 2 is about revising the basic material and challenging the body
with slightly more complex scenarios.
You must also complete the learning of form (section 1) and undergo a form
drilling challenge.
Part 2 students are given access to the extensive
class database.
Health-only
The self defence material may not be suitable for people with certain health problems.
If in
doubt, please ask.
Health-only student have a different syllabus and wear a
red sash.
Workshops
Small class-only workshops focus on difficult aspects of the syllabus and
are run on a monthly basis.
More...