Caine: Master, do
we seek victory in contention?
Kan: Seek rather not to
contend.
Caine: But shall we not then
be defeated?
Kan: We know that where there
is no contention, there is neither defeat nor victory. The supple willow does
not contend against the storm, yet it survives.
(Kung Fu)
Danger
When you are learning a
martial art there is always the risk of
being injured.
Tai chi is no exception.
You can harm your own body by ignoring instructions or being macho during
partner work.
In the interests of personal safety we encourage all students to adopt a
careful, mature attitude.
Self defence
Self defence work needs to move closer and closer to reality as you proceed
through the syllabus.
We must be as realistic as possible without the risk of
injury.
Some beginners equate realism with brutality.
We do not offer that sort of class.
There is more to realism than being hurt.
Students are encouraged towards
exuberant play, where you get roughed-up a
little but never damaged.
Page created 6 February 1999