CLASS STRUCTURE
Ji Ben Gong (Warm Up/ Basics) The first part of the class is spent warming up and developing flexibility, co-ordination and stamina with a set of traditional exercises and techniques, incorporating some very practical kung fu moves. These range from simple punches and kicks to some gymnastically advanced and rather flash aerial kicks. This part of the class is often quite physically challenging for most people when they first start, but don’t be put off and don’t worry; most people pick them up quite quickly and they prepare your body well for the rest of the syllabus. |
Tao Lu (Forms)
The middle part of the class is spent learning and practising forms.
Forms are the traditional format in which martial arts were transmitted from master to student. Forms are our biggest treasure and are a veritable library of self-defence techniques. They include unarmed forms, weapons forms, and two-person forms.
Beginners, by that we mean anyone who is new to Shaolin Mizong Quan, irrespective of what level and style of other martial arts they have practised at, are required to start by learning Tan Tui. Tan Tui are simple linear forms, often referred to as roads, since you travel in a straight line when performing them. These drill you in the stances, basic techniques and flavour of our style and constitute the essential foundation of learning good kung fu. It is also a very good workout and will raise your leg strength to new levels!
After Tan Tui, come the rest of the forms. Forms practise is essential to learning new techniques, promoting the right muscle memory and increase cardiovascular fitness, co-ordination and mental capacity. Opportunities will arise for talented individuals to enter competitions at regional, national and even international levels, though this is not something any student should feel pressured into doing.
Yong Fa (Applications and Conditioning)
The final part of the lesson is spent further conditioning the body. This includes practising applications of techniques extrapolated from the forms, and in our 2 man conditioning drills. This is also the part of the class where self defence techniques are taught. It is important to condition the body in order to prepare it for impact. This is the only way to effectively train you how to deliver a powerful block or strike.
At higher levels, students will practise sparring, but beginners and intermediates are not permitted to do so in our style.