By regularly training the fundamentals every day, the student lays the necessary foundation quickly and can constantly ensure that they remain stable and strong.
Neglecting the basic material leads to weakness throughout the practice.
Monday
What about tradition?
If you are a Christian, give to the poor.
If you are not, why let marketing and commerce bully you into feeling guilty for not buying presents? People are just trying to make money out of you. They want you in debt.
They want you spending more than you can afford. Your greed finances their greed.
If you recall the Charles Dickens story A Christmas Carol you may remember that celebrating Christmas traditionally entailed giving gifts to the poor.
This is seldom the case these days...
There is nothing miserly about rejecting consumerism.
If you are not, why let marketing and commerce bully you into feeling guilty for not buying presents? People are just trying to make money out of you. They want you in debt.
They want you spending more than you can afford. Your greed finances their greed.
If you recall the Charles Dickens story A Christmas Carol you may remember that celebrating Christmas traditionally entailed giving gifts to the poor.
This is seldom the case these days...
There is nothing miserly about rejecting consumerism.
Tuesday
5 stages
There are 5 stages to learning any form:
-
The pattern
-
Internal strength
-
Application
-
Shen
-
Natural
Indeed, few people even realise that there is more to form than the outward show.
The sad part about this is that the pattern is essentially incorrect unless augmented by the other 4 stages.
Feedback
Sifu Waller presents a non-macho, common sense approach to tai chi and self defence that is quite surprising in its clarity. His site is well written, sincere and open. Somehow he manages to share his thoughts without getting on a soapbox or selling himself or his own (unique) school. Also, he's offering this invaluable on-line resource for free! He seems to be entirely free of the tai chi politics commonly encountered these days and that is a refreshing change...
(Andrew)
(Andrew)
Sunday
Saturday
Fast-track teachers
Beware fast-track taijiquan teachers.
A friend of mine got a Lee Family pamphlet through the post inviting her to qualify as an instructor. According to the leaflet she could become an instructor in less than two years with only one lesson per month commitment.
I was convinced that she was joking. What are these people teaching? How than they call it taijiquan?
In our syllabus it takes most people two years to complete the beginners syllabus, let alone teach the class!
Two years. It has to be a wind-up. Doesn't it? Doesn't it?
A friend of mine got a Lee Family pamphlet through the post inviting her to qualify as an instructor. According to the leaflet she could become an instructor in less than two years with only one lesson per month commitment.
I was convinced that she was joking. What are these people teaching? How than they call it taijiquan?
In our syllabus it takes most people two years to complete the beginners syllabus, let alone teach the class!
Two years. It has to be a wind-up. Doesn't it? Doesn't it?
Friday
Sabre
The second form is actually a sword form using movements derived from the Yang Cheng Fu form.
This heavy weapon offers a notable workout.
It develops upper body strength, whole body movement and wrist flexibility. Students learn how to extend their energy through the blade.
The sabre was designed for use against multiple opponents.
We do not teach the sabre as a self defence tool.
This heavy weapon offers a notable workout.
It develops upper body strength, whole body movement and wrist flexibility. Students learn how to extend their energy through the blade.
The sabre was designed for use against multiple opponents.
We do not teach the sabre as a self defence tool.
Thursday
Motto
Our school motto is simple: Adapt, change & improvise.
It captures the essence of (applied) tai chi and baguazhang, and encourages an open, flexible attitude to life.
It captures the essence of (applied) tai chi and baguazhang, and encourages an open, flexible attitude to life.
Wednesday
Non-Christian Christmas?
If you are not a Christian, what exactly are you celebrating over Christmas?
Why are you wrapping up all those presents, sitting through family meals and over-indulging?
For what? In aid of what? Tradition? For the sake of it? Why? It is far less expensive not to bother.
If you are having Christmas in order to over-eat, get drunk and indulge yourself, what does that say about your character?
Why are you wrapping up all those presents, sitting through family meals and over-indulging?
For what? In aid of what? Tradition? For the sake of it? Why? It is far less expensive not to bother.
If you are having Christmas in order to over-eat, get drunk and indulge yourself, what does that say about your character?
Monday
Progression
Your self defence skills are explored through a series of stages:
- Chin na leverage principles
- Escapes
- Basic grappling drills
- monkey paws
- pushing hands
- pushing legs
- yielding exercise
- yielding basic skills
- central equilibrium
- floor work - Shuai jiao (take down)
- Small san sau
- Dying ground
- Silk arms
- Yielding/chin na
- Countering punches, kicks and grapples
- Penetrating defences
- Being hit
- Gravity striking
- Yielding/chin na & countering
- Countering a knife
- Escapes/knife
- Freeform
- Misplacing the bones
- Projections
- Disarming
- Form application
- Pao chui
- Cavity press
- Dividing the muscle
- Sealing the breath
- Gangs/multiple opponents
Friday
Individual meaning
'Meaning' is something attributed to phenomena; it is our way of making sense of life.
When considering any aspect of life, we examine the components and extrapolate a meaning.
The danger with this is that we can imbue anything with meaning, even when it no longer has any bearing on the original purpose.
Now consider 'Christmas'...
http://www.buynothingchristmas.org
When considering any aspect of life, we examine the components and extrapolate a meaning.
The danger with this is that we can imbue anything with meaning, even when it no longer has any bearing on the original purpose.
Now consider 'Christmas'...
http://www.buynothingchristmas.org
Friday
Dance
Tai chi works in a way that is completely opposite from many forms of
dance, specifically ballet. It seems that more and more people interested in
dance and movement are turning to Eastern forms of movement as they search for a
richer and more supple expression.
(Liz Koch)
(Liz Koch)
Baguazhang
Baguazhang addresses the experience of combat in a different way to tai chi.
The student avoids direct confrontation by circling around the opponent or by encouraging the attacker to circle around them.
Momentum and flow are used to overcome strength. The aim is to draw the attacker out of their centre and off-balance.
The student avoids direct confrontation by circling around the opponent or by encouraging the attacker to circle around them.
Momentum and flow are used to overcome strength. The aim is to draw the attacker out of their centre and off-balance.
Thursday
Self defence?
When most people think of taijiquan they don't think of self defence at all.
Some people have sentimental visions of large groups of people engaged in harmonious dance and expect to learn those same skills in the first lesson. Others want you to take their problems away; perfect health and a trouble-free life.
It would be so much easier if the public perception of taijiquan reflected the true nature of the art. Studying taijiquan without neigong and self defence is like buying a car that has no engine.
Some people have sentimental visions of large groups of people engaged in harmonious dance and expect to learn those same skills in the first lesson. Others want you to take their problems away; perfect health and a trouble-free life.
It would be so much easier if the public perception of taijiquan reflected the true nature of the art. Studying taijiquan without neigong and self defence is like buying a car that has no engine.
Sunday
Feedback
What I really like about the class is it’s friendly atmosphere with excellent teaching and a clear syllabus that means everyone makes progress. It’s challenging but accessible. Everything is explained to the level you want and obviously Sifu Waller really demonstrates what is possible in the art.
(Tim)
(Tim)
Saturday
San da: what can you do?
Students are welcome to use tai chi, baguazhang, chin na, shuai jiao or any applications from our syllabus.
Skipping around, fearfulness, an unwillingness to commit or external tactics will all be considered redundant and pointless.
This is an exercise in initiative, in feinting, luring, provoking commitment, evasion and countering.
Skipping around, fearfulness, an unwillingness to commit or external tactics will all be considered redundant and pointless.
This is an exercise in initiative, in feinting, luring, provoking commitment, evasion and countering.
Friday
The long haul
The study of the internal arts is the work of a lifetime.
And so he sets off on a path to mysterious destinations. He does so in spite of observations by others that such a way is naïve, outmoded or idealistic. He goes because he knows others have gone before, because the unchanging direction of the way attracts and calls to him.
He goes because he is compelled. He sets out on a journey of a lifetime because he senses that this way is the one to lead him to a place very much worth the going.
(Dave Lowry)
He goes because he is compelled. He sets out on a journey of a lifetime because he senses that this way is the one to lead him to a place very much worth the going.
(Dave Lowry)
Thursday
Nei Jia Chuan: Internal Martial Arts Teachers of Tai Ji Chuan, Xing Yi Chuan, and Ba Gua Zhang by Jess O'Brien
This book asserts that internal and external are pretty much the same... an odd determination.
Sunday
Conditioning the body
We can address balance and connection once the muscles soften, the joints relax and the body opens.
The psoas muscle needs to lengthen naturally; this will aid in strengthening the body without tension, as well as providing stability.
Qigong and neigong serve to internally work and support the body as you perform tai chi.
From this foundation, you learn how to move in a tai chi way.
The form and self defence training exercises explore this unique way of moving.
Each new exercise offers an opportunity for you to increase your physical awareness.
It is an inward journey of subtlety and relationship.
The conditioning and awareness training encourages your mind to soften and your body to grow in new ways.
The psoas muscle needs to lengthen naturally; this will aid in strengthening the body without tension, as well as providing stability.
Qigong and neigong serve to internally work and support the body as you perform tai chi.
From this foundation, you learn how to move in a tai chi way.
The form and self defence training exercises explore this unique way of moving.
Each new exercise offers an opportunity for you to increase your physical awareness.
It is an inward journey of subtlety and relationship.
The conditioning and awareness training encourages your mind to soften and your body to grow in new ways.
Wednesday
8th dan
Partner work
Qigong
Challenge – full circle qigong (30 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Attitude & etiquette
Long Yang form (section 1)
Stick drills (intro)Yielding basic skills
Challenge - form challenge (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Attitude & etiquette
Assignment #3 - The Sword Polisher's Record: The Way of Kung Fu
Leg stretches (set 1)
Monkey paws
Psoas exercises
Pushing legs
Single pushing hands
Challenge – standing qigong (4 postures) (20 minutes x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Attitude & etiquette
Assignment #3 - There Are No Secrets
Cat-stepping
Knife drills (intro)
Leg stretches (set 2)
Tao yin/Taoist Yoga
Challenge - knife drilling (30 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Attitude & etiquette
Assignment #3 - The Essence of Tai Chi Chuan - The Literary Tradition
Chin na applications
Form applications
High circle qigong
Horse stanceLong Yang form (section 2)
Long Yang form (section 3)Martial concepts (intro)
Monkey paws (stepping)
Qigong development
Single pushing hands (stepping)
Challenge - chin na applications (60 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - form applications (60 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - form challenge (section 2) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - form challenge (section 3) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - horse stance qigong (5 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - qigong development (40 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - 5 Elements of Effective Thinking
Assignment #3 - The Book of Five Rings
3-D
4 directions with a partner (no contact)
70/30 stance
Broadsword drillsCountering/pushing peng
Double pushing hands
Form posture qigong (70/30)
Penetrating defences
Pushing peng exercise
Pushing peng (partnered)
Pushing peng (striking)
Qigong on one leg
Silk arms
Small san sauStanding post with arms
Stick drills (3 sets)
Stretches & joint work
Challenge - broadsword drills (30 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - double pushing hands (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - mirrored form (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - penetrating defences (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - silk arms (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge – small san sau (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - stick drills (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The Way of Chuang Tzu
Assignment #3 - The Art of War
Countering punches, kicks & grapples
Dying ground
Everybody falls
Floor work
Massage
Melee
Qigong revision
Shuai jiao applications - subject to fitnessYielding/chin na
Yielding/countering
Yielding/shuai jiao - subject to fitnessChallenge - floor work endurance (10 mins)
Challenge - shuai jiao applications (60 mins x 12 weeks) - subject to fitness
Challenge - yielding/chin na endurance (10 mins)
Challenge - yielding/countering endurance (10 mins)
Challenge - yielding/shuai jiao endurance (10 mins) - subject to fitness
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The New Lao Tzu
Assignment #3 - Tao of Being
3-tier wallbag
13 energies
Being hit
Breath meditation
Da lu
Finishing-off
Form applications (section 1)
Freeform triangle
Gravity striking
Loose striking
Melee:
– yielding/shuai jiao
– yielding/chin na
– yielding/counteringNeigong (1-10)
Sabre form (regular & mirrored)
Silk arms (peng)
Small san sau (peng)
Speed striking
Challenge - 13 energies (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - da lu (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - sabre form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - section 1 form applications (120 mins x 24 weeks)
Challenge - silk arms (peng) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - small san sau (peng) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The Book of Life
Assignment #3 - The Inner Way
Assignment #4 - Sword & Brush
2 person cane form/drill (regular & mirrored)
4 ounces exercise
5 bows
5 elements stepping
8 powers striking
Countering a knife
Escapes/knife
Floor work (control)
Form applications (section 2)
Improvised weaponry/knife
Long Yang form (round version)
Meditation on emotions
Neigong (11-20)Obvious power (ming jing)
Pushing hands development
Reverse breathing
Yielding/knife
Challenge - 2 person cane form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - improvised weaponry (5 minutes)
Challenge - section 2 form applications (120 mins x 24 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The Little Zen Companion
Assignment #3 - Moving Zen
Assignment #4 - Tai Chi Secrets of the Ancient Masters
5 animals
5 centres
Crude fa jing
Elbow
Folding
Form applications (section 3)
Groundpath
Holding down the pillow
Jing
Kicking
Meditation on body sensations
Moving with kwa
Neigong (extras)
Newton’s Laws of Motion
San da stage 1: freeform application
Silk arms (jing)
Small san sau (jing)
Spiral body
Staff form (regular & mirrored)
Yin
Challenge - 10 minute freeform application endurance challenge
Challenge - sections 1, 2 & 3 form applications (120 mins x 48 weeks)
Challenge - silk arms (jing) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - small san sau (jing) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - staff form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - 36 Strategies
Assignment #3 - Steal My Art
Assignment #4 - Zen in the Art of Archery
5 challenges
5 elements striking (part 1)
6 balanced pairs
Freeform grappling
Full syllabus revision
Leverage principles (misplacing the bones)
Projections (set 1)
Shuai jiao: footwork
Shuai jiao: elbow & bump
Shuai jiao: mutual arising
Shuai jiao: use of legs
Shuai jiao: throws
Silk arms (combat)
Small san sau (combat)
Walking stick form (regular & mirrored)
The way of the bear
The way of the bird
The way of the monkey
The way of the snake
The way of the tiger
Challenge - 5 challenges
Challenge - projections (set 1) (30 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - silk arms (combat) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - small san sau (combat) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - walking stick form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The Art of War (Cleary/Shambhala)
Assignment #3 - The Complete Taiji Dao
Assignment #4 - The Tai Chi Journey
Assignment #5 - Blink
Assignment #6 - Commentaries on Living volume 2
Assignment #7 - Curious
5 elements striking (part 2)
60/40 stance
Balance, rhythm, timing
Cold jing
Entry methods
Fa jing
Flowing chin na applications (misplacing the bones)
Flowing shuai jiao applications
Full syllabus revision
Heavy bag
Jing/leverage principles (misplacing the bones)
Projections (set 2)
Reflex drills
Shen
Small san sau against a knife
Small stick drills
Small stick flexibility drills
Straight sword form (regular & mirrored)
Wu nien
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Challenge - knife attackers (5 minutes)
Challenge - reflex drills (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - projections (set 2) (30 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - small stick drills (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - straight sword form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
Assignment #3 - Free Yourself From Back Pain
Assignment #4 - How to Win Friends and Influence People
Assignment #5 - Tao Te Ching (various translations)
Assignment #6 - The Way To Love
Assignment #7 - The Willpower Instinct
5 pre-emptive methods
Becoming the centre
Being in the back
Combining chin na, shuai jiao & jing
Dividing the muscle
First hand/second hand
Full syllabus revision
Hidden power (an jing)
Large rhythm, small rhythm
Latent movements
Neigong (21-30)
Penetrating defences against a knife
Projections (set 3)
Rolling
San da stage 2: freeform combat
Shih (martial advantage)
Shuai jiao against a knife
Silk arms against a knife
Sparing yourself
Tools
Travelling
Yielding/chin na against a knife
Challenge - projections (set 3) (30 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - shuai jiao relay (5 minutes)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Who Moved My Cheese?
Assignment #3 - The Pavement Arena
Assignment #4 - In the Dojo
Assignment #5 - Mindwise
Assignment #6 - Outliers
Assignment #7 - The Road Less Travelled
Assignment #8 - Your Erroneous Zones
Qigong
Challenge – full circle qigong (30 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Attitude & etiquette
Long Yang form (section 1)
Stick drills (intro)Yielding basic skills
Challenge - form challenge (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Attitude & etiquette
Assignment #3 - The Sword Polisher's Record: The Way of Kung Fu
Leg stretches (set 1)
Monkey paws
Psoas exercises
Pushing legs
Single pushing hands
Challenge – standing qigong (4 postures) (20 minutes x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Attitude & etiquette
Assignment #3 - There Are No Secrets
Cat-stepping
Knife drills (intro)
Leg stretches (set 2)
Tao yin/Taoist Yoga
Challenge - knife drilling (30 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Attitude & etiquette
Assignment #3 - The Essence of Tai Chi Chuan - The Literary Tradition
Chin na applications
Form applications
High circle qigong
Horse stanceLong Yang form (section 2)
Long Yang form (section 3)Martial concepts (intro)
Monkey paws (stepping)
Qigong development
Single pushing hands (stepping)
Challenge - chin na applications (60 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - form applications (60 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - form challenge (section 2) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - form challenge (section 3) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - horse stance qigong (5 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - qigong development (40 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - 5 Elements of Effective Thinking
Assignment #3 - The Book of Five Rings
3-D
4 directions with a partner (no contact)
70/30 stance
Broadsword drillsCountering/pushing peng
Double pushing hands
Form posture qigong (70/30)
Penetrating defences
Pushing peng exercise
Pushing peng (partnered)
Pushing peng (striking)
Qigong on one leg
Silk arms
Small san sauStanding post with arms
Stick drills (3 sets)
Stretches & joint work
Challenge - broadsword drills (30 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - double pushing hands (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - mirrored form (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - penetrating defences (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - silk arms (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge – small san sau (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - stick drills (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The Way of Chuang Tzu
Assignment #3 - The Art of War
Countering punches, kicks & grapples
Dying ground
Everybody falls
Floor work
Massage
Melee
Qigong revision
Shuai jiao applications - subject to fitnessYielding/chin na
Yielding/countering
Yielding/shuai jiao - subject to fitnessChallenge - floor work endurance (10 mins)
Challenge - shuai jiao applications (60 mins x 12 weeks) - subject to fitness
Challenge - yielding/chin na endurance (10 mins)
Challenge - yielding/countering endurance (10 mins)
Challenge - yielding/shuai jiao endurance (10 mins) - subject to fitness
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The New Lao Tzu
Assignment #3 - Tao of Being
3-tier wallbag
13 energies
Being hit
Breath meditation
Da lu
Finishing-off
Form applications (section 1)
Freeform triangle
Gravity striking
Loose striking
Melee:
– yielding/shuai jiao
– yielding/chin na
– yielding/counteringNeigong (1-10)
Sabre form (regular & mirrored)
Silk arms (peng)
Small san sau (peng)
Speed striking
Challenge - 13 energies (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - da lu (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - sabre form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - section 1 form applications (120 mins x 24 weeks)
Challenge - silk arms (peng) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - small san sau (peng) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The Book of Life
Assignment #3 - The Inner Way
Assignment #4 - Sword & Brush
2 person cane form/drill (regular & mirrored)
4 ounces exercise
5 bows
5 elements stepping
8 powers striking
Countering a knife
Escapes/knife
Floor work (control)
Form applications (section 2)
Improvised weaponry/knife
Long Yang form (round version)
Meditation on emotions
Neigong (11-20)Obvious power (ming jing)
Pushing hands development
Reverse breathing
Yielding/knife
Challenge - 2 person cane form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - improvised weaponry (5 minutes)
Challenge - section 2 form applications (120 mins x 24 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The Little Zen Companion
Assignment #3 - Moving Zen
Assignment #4 - Tai Chi Secrets of the Ancient Masters
5 animals
5 centres
Crude fa jing
Elbow
Folding
Form applications (section 3)
Groundpath
Holding down the pillow
Jing
Kicking
Meditation on body sensations
Moving with kwa
Neigong (extras)
Newton’s Laws of Motion
San da stage 1: freeform application
Silk arms (jing)
Small san sau (jing)
Spiral body
Staff form (regular & mirrored)
Yin
Challenge - 10 minute freeform application endurance challenge
Challenge - sections 1, 2 & 3 form applications (120 mins x 48 weeks)
Challenge - silk arms (jing) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - small san sau (jing) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - staff form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - 36 Strategies
Assignment #3 - Steal My Art
Assignment #4 - Zen in the Art of Archery
5 challenges
5 elements striking (part 1)
6 balanced pairs
Freeform grappling
Full syllabus revision
Leverage principles (misplacing the bones)
Projections (set 1)
Shuai jiao: footwork
Shuai jiao: elbow & bump
Shuai jiao: mutual arising
Shuai jiao: use of legs
Shuai jiao: throws
Silk arms (combat)
Small san sau (combat)
Walking stick form (regular & mirrored)
The way of the bear
The way of the bird
The way of the monkey
The way of the snake
The way of the tiger
Challenge - 5 challenges
Challenge - projections (set 1) (30 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - silk arms (combat) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - small san sau (combat) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - walking stick form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - The Art of War (Cleary/Shambhala)
Assignment #3 - The Complete Taiji Dao
Assignment #4 - The Tai Chi Journey
Assignment #5 - Blink
Assignment #6 - Commentaries on Living volume 2
Assignment #7 - Curious
5 elements striking (part 2)
60/40 stance
Balance, rhythm, timing
Cold jing
Entry methods
Fa jing
Flowing chin na applications (misplacing the bones)
Flowing shuai jiao applications
Full syllabus revision
Heavy bag
Jing/leverage principles (misplacing the bones)
Projections (set 2)
Reflex drills
Shen
Small san sau against a knife
Small stick drills
Small stick flexibility drills
Straight sword form (regular & mirrored)
Wu nien
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Challenge - knife attackers (5 minutes)
Challenge - reflex drills (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - projections (set 2) (30 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - small stick drills (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Challenge - straight sword form (regular & mirrored) (60 mins x 4 weeks)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
Assignment #3 - Free Yourself From Back Pain
Assignment #4 - How to Win Friends and Influence People
Assignment #5 - Tao Te Ching (various translations)
Assignment #6 - The Way To Love
Assignment #7 - The Willpower Instinct
5 pre-emptive methods
Becoming the centre
Being in the back
Combining chin na, shuai jiao & jing
Dividing the muscle
First hand/second hand
Full syllabus revision
Hidden power (an jing)
Large rhythm, small rhythm
Latent movements
Neigong (21-30)
Penetrating defences against a knife
Projections (set 3)
Rolling
San da stage 2: freeform combat
Shih (martial advantage)
Shuai jiao against a knife
Silk arms against a knife
Sparing yourself
Tools
Travelling
Yielding/chin na against a knife
Challenge - projections (set 3) (30 mins x 12 weeks)
Challenge - shuai jiao relay (5 minutes)
Assignment #1 - Q & A
Assignment #2 - Who Moved My Cheese?
Assignment #3 - The Pavement Arena
Assignment #4 - In the Dojo
Assignment #5 - Mindwise
Assignment #6 - Outliers
Assignment #7 - The Road Less Travelled
Assignment #8 - Your Erroneous Zones
5 elements striking (part 3)
Bone marrow washing
Cultivating sung
Disarming
Disintegration
Dying ground (expert)
Energy drainage
Fa jing (variations)
Form application (power)
Form in self defence
Full syllabus revision
Internalising
Kinetic pathway
Large san sau
Monkey
Neigong
- 20 qualities
- incorporation
Open & close
Overwhelming attacks
Pao chui form
Pre-natal breathing
Reeling silk
Rhythm
Sealing the breath
Small circle
Sung
Tortoise breathing
Unite upper & lower
Waving
Yin body
Yin/yang
Challenge – large san sau (120 mins x 24 weeks)
Challenge - mass attack (5 minutes)
Challenge - non-cooperative relay (5 mins)
Challenge – pao chui form
Assignment #1 - interpret a koan
Assignment #2 - write a poem
Assignment #3 - The Art of Chinese Swordsmanship: Manual of Taiji Jian
Assignment #4 - The Book of Tea
Assignment #5 - Keep it Simple
Assignment #6 - The Power of Internal Martial Arts
Assignment #7 - Embrace Tiger, Return to Mountain: The Essence of Tai Ji
Assignment #8 - Back to Beginnings
Assignment #9 - Chuang Tzu in a Nutshell
Assignment #10 - Tai Chi Theory & Martial Power
2 person cane form/drill dismantled
Adapt, change & improvise Biomechanics
Broadsword drills dismantled
Consciousness
Consolidation
Dim-mak (dim-su/incapacitation)
Eastern philosophy
Form
Form application (cane)
Form application (pao chui)
Form application (sabre)
Form application (staff)
Form application (straight sword)
Form application (walking stick)
Freeform
Kinaesthetic awareness
Knife drills dismantled
Large san sau dismantled
Long Yang form dismantled
Martial theory & practice
Meditation Neigong dismantled
Pao chui form dismantled
Partner work dismantled
Penetrating defences dismantled
Power generation
Proprioception
Pushing hands (all variations) dismantledQigong dismantled
Sabre form dismantled
Silk arms dismantled
Small san sau dismantled
Small stick drills dismantled
Spiritual inquiryStaff form dismantled
Stick drills dismantled
Straight sword form dismantled
Striking methods
Syllabus design
Taijiquan principles
Teaching methods
Walking stick form dismantled
Whole-body movement
Masterwork/masterpiece
Bone marrow washing
Cultivating sung
Disarming
Disintegration
Dying ground (expert)
Energy drainage
Fa jing (variations)
Form application (power)
Form in self defence
Full syllabus revision
Internalising
Kinetic pathway
Large san sau
Monkey
Neigong
- 20 qualities
- incorporation
Open & close
Overwhelming attacks
Pao chui form
Pre-natal breathing
Reeling silk
Rhythm
Sealing the breath
Small circle
Sung
Tortoise breathing
Unite upper & lower
Waving
Yin body
Yin/yang
Challenge – large san sau (120 mins x 24 weeks)
Challenge - mass attack (5 minutes)
Challenge - non-cooperative relay (5 mins)
Challenge – pao chui form
Assignment #1 - interpret a koan
Assignment #2 - write a poem
Assignment #3 - The Art of Chinese Swordsmanship: Manual of Taiji Jian
Assignment #4 - The Book of Tea
Assignment #5 - Keep it Simple
Assignment #6 - The Power of Internal Martial Arts
Assignment #7 - Embrace Tiger, Return to Mountain: The Essence of Tai Ji
Assignment #8 - Back to Beginnings
Assignment #9 - Chuang Tzu in a Nutshell
Assignment #10 - Tai Chi Theory & Martial Power
2 person cane form/drill dismantled
Adapt, change & improvise Biomechanics
Broadsword drills dismantled
Consciousness
Consolidation
Dim-mak (dim-su/incapacitation)
Eastern philosophy
Form
Form application (cane)
Form application (pao chui)
Form application (sabre)
Form application (staff)
Form application (straight sword)
Form application (walking stick)
Freeform
Kinaesthetic awareness
Knife drills dismantled
Large san sau dismantled
Long Yang form dismantled
Martial theory & practice
Meditation Neigong dismantled
Pao chui form dismantled
Partner work dismantled
Penetrating defences dismantled
Power generation
Proprioception
Pushing hands (all variations) dismantledQigong dismantled
Sabre form dismantled
Silk arms dismantled
Small san sau dismantled
Small stick drills dismantled
Spiritual inquiryStaff form dismantled
Stick drills dismantled
Straight sword form dismantled
Striking methods
Syllabus design
Taijiquan principles
Teaching methods
Walking stick form dismantled
Whole-body movement
Masterwork/masterpiece
Tuesday
Monday
Scientific analysis
The opposite of exploring 'natural responses' to attack is when you respond in a contrived manner. You deliberately limit yourself to a certain drill or movement and practice that.
Your partner attacks with a variety of strikes and grapples, whilst you carefully think your way through each response. Be slow and thoughtful; contemplate what you are doing and why. Do not rush this. Do not lose your whole-body response at any point.
Be aware of where you are leading your opponent and what the effect of each counter-strike will be.
This type of work helps you to practice form applications and drills against a wider range of attacks, and the results should feed into the natural responses training.
Remember that scientific analysis, form applications and partner drills are all contrived. Natural responses training is what you will use in self defence: it is the proof of where you are. What comes out, comes out.
If you are faced with a legitimate threat and take time to think, you will fail. The tendency to do this can be removed through melee training, in which the thinking time is removed by the immediacy and variety of the threat.
Your partner attacks with a variety of strikes and grapples, whilst you carefully think your way through each response. Be slow and thoughtful; contemplate what you are doing and why. Do not rush this. Do not lose your whole-body response at any point.
Be aware of where you are leading your opponent and what the effect of each counter-strike will be.
This type of work helps you to practice form applications and drills against a wider range of attacks, and the results should feed into the natural responses training.
Remember that scientific analysis, form applications and partner drills are all contrived. Natural responses training is what you will use in self defence: it is the proof of where you are. What comes out, comes out.
If you are faced with a legitimate threat and take time to think, you will fail. The tendency to do this can be removed through melee training, in which the thinking time is removed by the immediacy and variety of the threat.
Thursday
Mild stretches
Taoist Yoga is a gentle way to exercise the body:
• Simple to perform
• Easy to learn
• Improves balance
• Stress-relief
• Meditation exercise
• Encourages a calm mind and composed emotions
• Energises
• Does not strain the body
• Strength-building
• Emphasis is placed upon allowing rather than forcing
• Improves skeletal alignment and poise
• Low-impact
• No exotic/strenuous postures
• Can be practiced by most people
• Easy to learn
• Improves balance
• Stress-relief
• Meditation exercise
• Encourages a calm mind and composed emotions
• Energises
• Does not strain the body
• Strength-building
• Emphasis is placed upon allowing rather than forcing
• Improves skeletal alignment and poise
• Low-impact
• No exotic/strenuous postures
• Can be practiced by most people
Wednesday
Small san sau - 2 ways
Small san sau is taught in two ways
initially:
-
Sequence
-
Combat concerns
The 'sequence' is just the pattern of movements: the framework.
It must be performed quite well.
Small san sau is introduced in green belt and students complete the basic sequence during the blue belt syllabus.
The second learning stage takes place at purple belt.
Students learn how to use the set in actual combat.
Subtle changes and corrections enhance the set, making it much more versatile and functional in combat.
It must be performed quite well.
Small san sau is introduced in green belt and students complete the basic sequence during the blue belt syllabus.
The second learning stage takes place at purple belt.
Students learn how to use the set in actual combat.
Subtle changes and corrections enhance the set, making it much more versatile and functional in combat.
Traditional instructor
When Sifu Waller studied with Peter Southwood he was required to
stand for 40 minutes a day (every day) at 5:00
AM.
Standing was followed by moving qigong, drills and then two hours of form training.
He was given very little verbal tuition.
The training was primarily learning through doing.
Every qigong exercise, partnered drill and all 8 forms had to be studied thoroughly before Peter Southwood was prepared to share any in-depth knowledge.
Neigong and application had to be earned.
Peter Southwood used the Confucian teaching method: he showed you the example once and expected the student to go away and practice it.
Only the diligent student was shown more.
There was a significant onus upon the individual figuring things out for themselves.
Corrections, tips and pointers were only offered when a pattern of committed practice had been established.
Sifu Waller used to ask students to stand for 40 minutes at the start of class.
There were many grumbles and complaints, but most people actually felt better afterwards.
Standing was followed by moving qigong, drills and then two hours of form training.
He was given very little verbal tuition.
The training was primarily learning through doing.
Every qigong exercise, partnered drill and all 8 forms had to be studied thoroughly before Peter Southwood was prepared to share any in-depth knowledge.
Neigong and application had to be earned.
Peter Southwood used the Confucian teaching method: he showed you the example once and expected the student to go away and practice it.
Only the diligent student was shown more.
There was a significant onus upon the individual figuring things out for themselves.
Corrections, tips and pointers were only offered when a pattern of committed practice had been established.
Sifu Waller used to ask students to stand for 40 minutes at the start of class.
There were many grumbles and complaints, but most people actually felt better afterwards.
Etiquette
(i) If they are your instructor
If the person is currently teaching you, then you call them Sifu (No Surname).
(i) If they are not your instructor
In Chinese martial arts you call the instructor Mr Surname or Sifu Surname if they are not your teacher.
To refuse to call an instructor Mr Surname or Sifu Surname is considered to be very arrogant and disrespectful.
If the person is currently teaching you, then you call them Sifu (No Surname).
(i) If they are not your instructor
In Chinese martial arts you call the instructor Mr Surname or Sifu Surname if they are not your teacher.
To refuse to call an instructor Mr Surname or Sifu Surname is considered to be very arrogant and disrespectful.
Prove yourself
If a student wants to be considered for lineage, they need to approach Sifu Waller and persuade him that they are serious enough.
Sifu Waller will assess the student and determine suitability.
Lineage is for the instructor to decide, not the student.
The instructor must be confident that the future of the art resides in capable hands.
Sifu Waller will assess the student and determine suitability.
Lineage is for the instructor to decide, not the student.
The instructor must be confident that the future of the art resides in capable hands.
Saturday
Whole-body strength
Almost every beginner struggles to understand the application of
strength in tai chi.
They wrestle with the subject, believing that they cannot reasonably apply the system without tensing their muscles and using force.
For each and every tai chi movement, the muscles of your body must work in unity to produce the effect.
Not just the shoulders or arm.
Not just the waist.
You must feed power through the frame using every muscle of the body combined.
This is far harder than it sounds but well worth the effort.
Your muscles must never tense. They need to remain soft and loose, with a subtle stretch.
They wrestle with the subject, believing that they cannot reasonably apply the system without tensing their muscles and using force.
For each and every tai chi movement, the muscles of your body must work in unity to produce the effect.
Not just the shoulders or arm.
Not just the waist.
You must feed power through the frame using every muscle of the body combined.
This is far harder than it sounds but well worth the effort.
Your muscles must never tense. They need to remain soft and loose, with a subtle stretch.
Learning new habits/responses
Once your body has begun to lose the old habits, it is ready for something new.
Neigong is concerned with instilling physical patterns that strengthen the body from the inside out.
Partner work examines the relationship between your body and someone else's.
The challenge is to maintain good posture and composure whilst performing complex activities.
This encourages your body to take the skills into your daily life.
Neigong is concerned with instilling physical patterns that strengthen the body from the inside out.
Partner work examines the relationship between your body and someone else's.
The challenge is to maintain good posture and composure whilst performing complex activities.
This encourages your body to take the skills into your daily life.
Friday
Modernity
In olden times people studied to improve themselves.
Today, they only study to impress others.
(Confucius)
Today, they only study to impress others.
(Confucius)
Wednesday
Tight-lipped
Peter Southwood is an exceptionally tight-lipped, secretive instructor. He follows the Chinese tell-you-nothing approach assiduously. The only person he shares his insights with is Sifu Waller. Everone else gets the public face, the not-so-good oil.
(Michael Dutton)
How can you tell?
You may occasionally see groups of people performing tai chi in public.
How do you gauge the quality?
Look to the Tai Chi Classics for guidance:
http://www.newcastletaichi.co.uk/Taijiquan%20Classics.htm
Do not assess the tai chi on the basis of personal preference:
http://www.newcastletaichi.co.uk/Howcanyoutell.htm
Opinion is worthless.
http://www.newcastletaichi.co.uk/Opinion.htm
How do you gauge the quality?
Look to the Tai Chi Classics for guidance:
http://www.newcastletaichi.co.uk/Taijiquan%20Classics.htm
Do not assess the tai chi on the basis of personal preference:
http://www.newcastletaichi.co.uk/Howcanyoutell.htm
Opinion is worthless.
http://www.newcastletaichi.co.uk/Opinion.htm
Tuesday
Partial artists
As a teacher, it is disappointing when students start a martial art and never get past the beginners syllabus.
There are ten beginners belts to pass.
Everyone can pass them if they commit time, effort and patience to the task.
There are ten beginners belts to pass.
Everyone can pass them if they commit time, effort and patience to the task.
Monday
Quitting
Most martial arts classes have a rather high turnover of students.
Why is this?
People are simply not prepared for the journey ahead and they quit at the slightest hurdle.
For many, it is purely a matter of patience - they are unrealistic about their own capacity to learn.
With others, it is the fear of stepping into the unknown, of losing control.
A lot of people are just downright lazy...
Why is this?
People are simply not prepared for the journey ahead and they quit at the slightest hurdle.
For many, it is purely a matter of patience - they are unrealistic about their own capacity to learn.
With others, it is the fear of stepping into the unknown, of losing control.
A lot of people are just downright lazy...
Sunday
A school
An internal arts school is different to a night school course or a keep fit class.
Its mandate is far broader.
With a keep fit class you can attend intermittently, and train as much or as little as you like.
It makes no real difference.
The student is just a number in the register.
With a tai chi school you are expected to have a different attitude.
There is a detailed syllabus offering a clear pathway of progression, and a specific code of conduct.
Students are asked to train between classes and attend regularly.
Individual progress is monitored and supervised by the instructor.
Its mandate is far broader.
With a keep fit class you can attend intermittently, and train as much or as little as you like.
It makes no real difference.
The student is just a number in the register.
With a tai chi school you are expected to have a different attitude.
There is a detailed syllabus offering a clear pathway of progression, and a specific code of conduct.
Students are asked to train between classes and attend regularly.
Individual progress is monitored and supervised by the instructor.
Saturday
Friday
Ego
Modern culture encourages egotism.
When a beginner demonstrates arrogance in a tai chi class, it is the duty of the teacher to quash this.
Many people are unwilling to recognise that they are at fault.
Rudeness, cockiness and selfish behaviour are entrenched and familiar to them.
Letting-go is not an option.
When a beginner demonstrates arrogance in a tai chi class, it is the duty of the teacher to quash this.
Many people are unwilling to recognise that they are at fault.
Rudeness, cockiness and selfish behaviour are entrenched and familiar to them.
Letting-go is not an option.
Real zen
Zen is not concerned with pageantry or symbolism, jargon or esoteria. It is an exploration of what is. The ability to see what is right in front of you, without opinion, conception or artifice.
There is nothing stunning, extraordinary or remarkable taking place.
There is nothing stunning, extraordinary or remarkable taking place.
Thursday
Mind
Your mind must be calm and your emotions composed.
Meditation helps with this. It teaches you to be detached yet totally present.
Training the mind is more important than training the body. The mind leads the movement.
A rigid, fixed mind is a weak mind. We want flexibility above all else.
Meditation helps with this. It teaches you to be detached yet totally present.
Training the mind is more important than training the body. The mind leads the movement.
A rigid, fixed mind is a weak mind. We want flexibility above all else.
Wednesday
Too busy
We are encouraged to lead active busy lives and this is not necessarily good for your health.
It is essential that we take time to rest.
Rushing around puts both body and mind in a state of anxiety.
Stress occurs when the demands you place upon yourself become too great.
Are you allowing people to put upon you? Are you taking on too many responsibilities?
Unless you are willing to see that your life may be too busy you are unlikely to be concerned and act.
Slowing down or stopping is the first step to getting some rest.
It is essential that we take time to rest.
Rushing around puts both body and mind in a state of anxiety.
Stress occurs when the demands you place upon yourself become too great.
Are you allowing people to put upon you? Are you taking on too many responsibilities?
Unless you are willing to see that your life may be too busy you are unlikely to be concerned and act.
Slowing down or stopping is the first step to getting some rest.
Tuesday
Natural approach
In modern times there is a great dependency upon Western medicine.
People seek to solve health problems quickly using medication or surgery.
These methods may fix the immediate problem but the underlying cause is seldom addressed.
Eating habits and poor body usage are often the cause of poor health.
The holistic approach is to work with the natural processes of the body, to improve body awareness, to learn new habits and steadily grow a healthier, more resilient body.
People seek to solve health problems quickly using medication or surgery.
These methods may fix the immediate problem but the underlying cause is seldom addressed.
Eating habits and poor body usage are often the cause of poor health.
The holistic approach is to work with the natural processes of the body, to improve body awareness, to learn new habits and steadily grow a healthier, more resilient body.
Monday
Tai chi
You cannot take the tai chi movements and use them in the same way as karate, ju jitsu, kickboxing or wing chun.
Tai chi is unlike mainstream martial arts. It relies upon softness, sensitivity, gravity, neigong and change.
Conventional strength is not used at all.
Tai chi is unlike mainstream martial arts. It relies upon softness, sensitivity, gravity, neigong and change.
Conventional strength is not used at all.
Saturday
Natural responses
If you simply follow drills and deliberate patterns, there is no way to gauge what will emerge in reality. Random attacks - incorporating a variety of punches, kicks and grapples - test your ability to respond spontaneously. The drills should be playful and fun, but the attacker must strike with the intention of making contact.
Afterwards, you look at areas of weakness and doubt. Focus upon the gaps and deficiencies: consider what you did wrong, why it didn't work and what you need to do in order to improve your response. Your partner should help you with this, along with your teacher (if required).
Afterwards, you look at areas of weakness and doubt. Focus upon the gaps and deficiencies: consider what you did wrong, why it didn't work and what you need to do in order to improve your response. Your partner should help you with this, along with your teacher (if required).
Friday
Thursday
Mind & body
Tai chi exercises are designed to unite mind and body. Through their
combination we have movement with intent.
Mind and body work together in harmony.
Every tai chi exercise trains mind and body to work as one.
Mind and body work together in harmony.
Every tai chi exercise trains mind and body to work as one.
Wednesday
Blocking is not used in tai chi
Although blocking may successfully prevent a punch from hitting you, it does not stop you from being hit.
It merely transfers the force of the blow to another body part.
Rather than a damaging strike to the face you receive a jarring blow to your arm.
This is preferable to a facial strike, but is hardly the most effective solution.
It merely transfers the force of the blow to another body part.
Rather than a damaging strike to the face you receive a jarring blow to your arm.
This is preferable to a facial strike, but is hardly the most effective solution.
Tuesday
Proof
Occasionally, Sifu explains something and gets this "Oh, yeah...as if!" look off a new student.
His only option at that point is to demonstrate.
He believes in being scientific and offering immediate and decisive proof of all aspects of his syllabus.
Sifu aims to demonstrate everything gently but will increase power relative to the demands of the situation.
His only option at that point is to demonstrate.
He believes in being scientific and offering immediate and decisive proof of all aspects of his syllabus.
Sifu aims to demonstrate everything gently but will increase power relative to the demands of the situation.
Monday
Open or closed centre?
If you hug a tree and bring your fingers too close together... you will feel immediate tension in the shoulders, chest and back.
The arm muscles will also tighten.
The hands need to be in front of the shoulders, otherwise your body will stiffen.
The arm muscles will also tighten.
The hands need to be in front of the shoulders, otherwise your body will stiffen.
Sunday
Friday
Thursday
How you feel
I wake at 5 and I train for a couple of hours. This is my first training session of the day. My body feels lively, nimble and sung. Everything drapes. But not in a heavy, oppressive way. It is a deep relaxation that is quite hard to qualify verbally. My mind is at ease and there is a deep warmth throughout my body.
Soon, I will lie down for 20 minutes, then read for half an hour. This sense of inner stillness will spread and settle. Composure and quietude will be present all day long.
Later, there will be more training. Vigorous drills, baguazhan and qigong. I will walk. I will teach. But nothing will disrupt this sense of ease.
I don't care whether you train karate, brazilian ju jitsu or another style of tai chi. This is how it feels to train what I train. That is what matters to me.
Soon, I will lie down for 20 minutes, then read for half an hour. This sense of inner stillness will spread and settle. Composure and quietude will be present all day long.
Later, there will be more training. Vigorous drills, baguazhan and qigong. I will walk. I will teach. But nothing will disrupt this sense of ease.
I don't care whether you train karate, brazilian ju jitsu or another style of tai chi. This is how it feels to train what I train. That is what matters to me.
Wednesday
Tuesday
Grappling
Tai chi is something like 80% wrestling and 20% striking. Does pushing
hands look like boxing or wrestling? Wrestling!
The reason why the originators of the internal styles gravitated toward the grappling portions of their art is that you can practice grappling moves 99% the same as they will be used in a street fight.
(Tim Cartmell)
The reason why the originators of the internal styles gravitated toward the grappling portions of their art is that you can practice grappling moves 99% the same as they will be used in a street fight.
(Tim Cartmell)
Sifu Waller's home training
This has been Sifu Waller's daily
routine since 1992:
-
Strength-building
- balls & grips
- self-massage (100+ exercises)
- 3 circle qigong (15 minutes)
- ba duan jin (8 exercises)
- reeling silk (6 exercises)
- 16 elbows
- moving qigong (15 exercises)
- leg stretches: day 1 or 2
-
Drills
- small san sau
- silk arms
- 5 pre-emptive measures
- pushing peng/double pushing hands/da lu/penetrating defences/reflex drills
- 3-tier wallbag
-
Weapons
- knife drills
- small stick drills
- stick drills (Monday - Saturday)
- broadsword drills (Sunday)
- sabre form (regular & mirrored)
- 2 person cane form/drill (regular & mirrored)
- staff form (regular & mirrored)
- walking stick form (regular & mirrored)
- straight sword form (regular & mirrored)
-
Hard qigong
- full circle qigong (2 postures)/qigong development (2 postures)/form posture qigong (2 postures)/high circle qigong/qigong on one leg
-
Cool down
- stretches & joint work (10 exercises)/psoas exercises (5 exercises)
-
Meditation
- constructive rest position
- guided relaxation -
Reading/study
Sunday
Basics
A piano student trains their basics constantly.
They are expected to master these.
As the student progresses, the fundamentals become increasingly technical.
Only through significant refinement can skill be achieved.
They are expected to master these.
As the student progresses, the fundamentals become increasingly technical.
Only through significant refinement can skill be achieved.
Saturday
Numbers
Your wage is represented as a number. You deduct various other numbers from your wage and the figure diminishes.
It is quite easy to look at your bank statement and see £40 deducted here and £300 deducted there.
If you were to actually hand over the money physically, you may see the situation differently.
Counting out £300 in cash is altogether different from seeing a figure on a credit card bill.
It is quite easy to look at your bank statement and see £40 deducted here and £300 deducted there.
If you were to actually hand over the money physically, you may see the situation differently.
Counting out £300 in cash is altogether different from seeing a figure on a credit card bill.
Thursday
Zen
Zen is concerned with what actually exists. What is right in front of you.
In this sense, it is not in any way philosophical.
Reality can be experienced directly.
It is tangible.
The danger with thinking too much is that it serves to distance you from what is real.
In this sense, it is not in any way philosophical.
Reality can be experienced directly.
It is tangible.
The danger with thinking too much is that it serves to distance you from what is real.
Wednesday
Tuesday
Grading
Passing the beginners syllabus is a major step forward in your progress.
We will not give you this belt for nothing.
Expect no charity.
No belts will be given without good, strong passes.
If you do not pass your grading first time, persevere.
It will take you as long as is needed. Be patient, but show tenacity also.
It is important for each student to recognise that you are only as good as the skills you can manifest.
We will not give you this belt for nothing.
Expect no charity.
No belts will be given without good, strong passes.
If you do not pass your grading first time, persevere.
It will take you as long as is needed. Be patient, but show tenacity also.
It is important for each student to recognise that you are only as good as the skills you can manifest.
Monday
Vegetarian
A vegetarian is someone living on a diet of grains, pulses, nuts, seeds, vegetables and fruits with or without the use of dairy products and eggs (preferably free-range).
A vegetarian does not eat any meat, poultry, game, fish, shellfish or crustacea, or slaughter by-products such as gelatine or animal fats.
(The Vegetarian Society)
Sunday
Business address
Newcastle Tai Chi
St Andrew's Church
Station Road
Benton
NE12 8AW
0750 3604568
http://www.newcastletaichi.co.uk
newcastletaichi@hotmail.com
St Andrew's Church
Station Road
Benton
NE12 8AW
0750 3604568
http://www.newcastletaichi.co.uk
newcastletaichi@hotmail.com
Saturday
Aggressive approaches
Anger and aggression should not be used in martial tai chi.
These unpleasant emotions strain the body (especially the heart) and dump adverse chemicals in the bloodstream.
Taijiquan self defence is intended to be used without stressing the body, without exerting, without becoming excitable or forceful.
Stay calm and composed at all times.
You'll live longer.
These unpleasant emotions strain the body (especially the heart) and dump adverse chemicals in the bloodstream.
Taijiquan self defence is intended to be used without stressing the body, without exerting, without becoming excitable or forceful.
Stay calm and composed at all times.
You'll live longer.
Friday
Abstract
Taijiquan does not deal with abstract concepts.
In self defence, failure to evade an attack means that you will be compromised, hurt or injured.
There is no room for abstraction.
We must deal with the really real.
A punch is not theoretical. It is tangible. So is the pain when you fail to deal with it successfully.
In self defence, failure to evade an attack means that you will be compromised, hurt or injured.
There is no room for abstraction.
We must deal with the really real.
A punch is not theoretical. It is tangible. So is the pain when you fail to deal with it successfully.
Thursday
Martial arts
Martial arts students need a
weight bearing skeleton, a free psoas muscle and open hip sockets to perform
well. There is a tendency to lock the psoas muscle in a defensive posture and
fatigue the muscle by keeping it in a chronic contracted state. This limits the
movement of the leg, encouraging the use of the lumbar spine for kicking and
stops a person from performing effectively.
(Liz Koch)
(Liz Koch)
Wednesday
Small san sau tips (for the keener student)
If you want to get good at anything, the answer is simply: PRACTICE.
There are no shortcuts, gimmicks or secrets as such.
Small san sau tips:
- drill it daily, at least 3 times
- on a weekend/occasional/or daily, drill for up to 15 mins non-stop
- drill slowly and smoothly
- use a 'jong' (door frame, edge of door, mirror) in order to gauge positioning
- pay particular attention to accuracy
- make every movement count
- allow no redundancy
- stay calm/composed but be alert and ready
- the eyes lead the movement
- on occasion, drill at high speed but be mindful of the knees; do not torque or twist
- try to partner with somebody as often as you can
- solo training is for accuracy, partner work is for softness and applicability
Progress:
- use gravity not force
- never push
- let your limbs fall
- use 'moving qigong' skills to power your movements
- feel the rhythm: the circularity, flow, timing
- coordinate hands and feet
- lead from the centre
- move out of the way of the incoming blow
- rely on peng
- keep your elbows dropped; no higher than 45 degrees
- ask your partner to attack at full speed
- ask your partner to attack at full power & full speed
Break each movement down:
- how does it work?
- why does it work?
- what gaps do I have?
- which targets am I offering?
- are you rushing?
- consider the timing
- look at how much the attacker is committed
- is the attacker compromised by your defence?
- where am I striking?
- can I apply chin na as a follow-up?
- how easily can I flow into a different follow-up?
- will this work against a knife?
I learned this set from Peter Southwood in 1990.
Small changes have been made to encourage softness, 4 ounces and flow. Also I wanted to amplify the effect of the movements using gravity and create chin na opportunities.
Small san sau is great fun, and a nice pre-cursor to silk arms, penetrating defences and pao chui.
There are no shortcuts, gimmicks or secrets as such.
Small san sau tips:
- drill it daily, at least 3 times
- on a weekend/occasional/or daily, drill for up to 15 mins non-stop
- drill slowly and smoothly
- use a 'jong' (door frame, edge of door, mirror) in order to gauge positioning
- pay particular attention to accuracy
- make every movement count
- allow no redundancy
- stay calm/composed but be alert and ready
- the eyes lead the movement
- on occasion, drill at high speed but be mindful of the knees; do not torque or twist
- try to partner with somebody as often as you can
- solo training is for accuracy, partner work is for softness and applicability
Progress:
- use gravity not force
- never push
- let your limbs fall
- use 'moving qigong' skills to power your movements
- feel the rhythm: the circularity, flow, timing
- coordinate hands and feet
- lead from the centre
- move out of the way of the incoming blow
- rely on peng
- keep your elbows dropped; no higher than 45 degrees
- ask your partner to attack at full speed
- ask your partner to attack at full power & full speed
Break each movement down:
- how does it work?
- why does it work?
- what gaps do I have?
- which targets am I offering?
- are you rushing?
- consider the timing
- look at how much the attacker is committed
- is the attacker compromised by your defence?
- where am I striking?
- can I apply chin na as a follow-up?
- how easily can I flow into a different follow-up?
- will this work against a knife?
I learned this set from Peter Southwood in 1990.
Small changes have been made to encourage softness, 4 ounces and flow. Also I wanted to amplify the effect of the movements using gravity and create chin na opportunities.
Small san sau is great fun, and a nice pre-cursor to silk arms, penetrating defences and pao chui.
There is no shortcut
Building up your strength takes time, practice, commitment and patience.
In truth, you may not even realise it is happening.
Tai chi training is not strenuous or stressful.
You undertake regular training and let the mild exercise build up layers of strength.
In truth, you may not even realise it is happening.
Tai chi training is not strenuous or stressful.
You undertake regular training and let the mild exercise build up layers of strength.
A spiritual life
There is something simple and wholesome about a life spent cultivating grace, awareness and calm.
It is an almost monastic existence.
You practice, study, contemplate, meditate, experience insights, and reflect.
It is an almost monastic existence.
You practice, study, contemplate, meditate, experience insights, and reflect.
Monday
Honesty
The word 'meat' distances people from the reality of eating living creatures.
It reduces animals to 'livestock'.
There are many animal-related euphemisms: meat, bacon, beef, veal, lamb, mutton, pork, ham...
Being honest and seeing the truth is important.
It reduces animals to 'livestock'.
There are many animal-related euphemisms: meat, bacon, beef, veal, lamb, mutton, pork, ham...
Being honest and seeing the truth is important.
Sunday
Lazy
It is not easy to commit to daily training.
Your mind will resist.
There are many pleasant alternatives.
Yet, over time, the habit of training takes hold and your body begins to experience unexpected strength and mobility.
Eventually, you reach a point where you could not imagine ever missing your daily training.
Your mind will resist.
There are many pleasant alternatives.
Yet, over time, the habit of training takes hold and your body begins to experience unexpected strength and mobility.
Eventually, you reach a point where you could not imagine ever missing your daily training.
Saturday
Tai chi for health & fitness
If you have no interest in learning tai chi as a martial art, you are quite welcome to attend lessons as a tai chi for health & fitness student.
You will be taught a physically and mentally challenging curriculum, but no self defence at all.
Partner work will be limited.
Classes will focus upon flexibility, suppleness, relaxation, mobility, strength building and boosting your energy.
You will be taught a physically and mentally challenging curriculum, but no self defence at all.
Partner work will be limited.
Classes will focus upon flexibility, suppleness, relaxation, mobility, strength building and boosting your energy.
Friday
High repetitions
High repetitions dull the mind.
Aim to train little and often instead. Be thorough, accurate, aware.
Cultivate familiarity and ease.
You want your movements to be natural, relaxed, smooth and controlled.
Aim to train little and often instead. Be thorough, accurate, aware.
Cultivate familiarity and ease.
You want your movements to be natural, relaxed, smooth and controlled.
Wednesday
Individual insights are best
When a student has faith in the material, they give themselves over to it. The quiet unassuming students typically make great progress without fanfare. They quietly become skilled without vying for attention.
Rob in Newcastle has made radical progress in the last 6 months, partly due to private lessons, workshops and regular lessons, but mainly down to an insight he had.
He realised that his use of muscular tension stemmed from his fear of being hit and hurt.
Once Rob accepted that he may get hit, and stopped anticipating the outcome, he started to relax. By relaxing, Rob became more receptive to the immediate moment and could respond more calmly and effectively.
A personal obstacle had been removed, and Rob's taijiquan became stronger and more adaptable. He also had the added advantage of being composed.
Other students noted the change in Rob and respect the quality of his training. Our top student (Jason) invited Rob to train with him between classes.
Rob in Newcastle has made radical progress in the last 6 months, partly due to private lessons, workshops and regular lessons, but mainly down to an insight he had.
He realised that his use of muscular tension stemmed from his fear of being hit and hurt.
Once Rob accepted that he may get hit, and stopped anticipating the outcome, he started to relax. By relaxing, Rob became more receptive to the immediate moment and could respond more calmly and effectively.
A personal obstacle had been removed, and Rob's taijiquan became stronger and more adaptable. He also had the added advantage of being composed.
Other students noted the change in Rob and respect the quality of his training. Our top student (Jason) invited Rob to train with him between classes.
Monday
Peter's syllabus is a mystery
Peter Southwood's repertoire is not something he's ever published or formally talks about. I think I know what he can do then he does something I was unaware that he knew. I've seen his sword, pao chui, YCF, small & large san sau, applications, self defence, broadsword, cane, stick, staff, knife, qigong, neigong, bagua, dim-mak, chin na, shuai jiao and fa-jing.
I suspect there's more but direct questions aren't replied to. Peter just blinks and ignores the question.
I suspect there's more but direct questions aren't replied to. Peter just blinks and ignores the question.
I once saw Peter's book of neigong and know for a fact that Sifu Waller has it now.
(Michael Dutton)
Example instructor (level 1) questions
Question: What is 'peng'?
Take into account:
- your own notes
- syllabus/training notes Sifu has provided
- the website
- books you have read
- lesson experience
- your own insights
Explain peng in detail, from an introduction to the principle, through to its cultivation and ultimate application.
Take into account:
- your own notes
- syllabus/training notes Sifu has provided
- the website
- books you have read
- lesson experience
- your own insights
Explain peng in detail, from an introduction to the principle, through to its cultivation and ultimate application.
Sunday
Piano student
A piano student takes one private lesson a week.
During that lesson, there is no practice. Just tuition.
Between lessons, the student is expected to practice for at least an hour a day.
Should the student neglect their practice, it is immediately evident.
During that lesson, there is no practice. Just tuition.
Between lessons, the student is expected to practice for at least an hour a day.
Should the student neglect their practice, it is immediately evident.
Saturday
Feedback
I enjoyed the depth and knowledge of tai chi on your website and appreciate the study and hard work it represents. While many of your observations regarding tai chi instructors, classes and practitioners may be perceived as somewhat negative or harsh, I believe that those seeking tai chi will be spurred on to seek the deeper art instead of just emptily waving their arms.
I especially appreciated your comments regarding tai chi Competitions. I detest the shoving matches that pass for push hands, and the flowery forms and displays of gymnastic flexibility that seem to impress the judges. I generally suggest that my students go to a competition to compare and contrast what they see there, between various competitors and in class. They usually note the lack of the yielding principle and the ostentation, and egos, and are somewhat shocked.
I have found that most authors who have a negative view on most of what is being taught in tai chi classes are only interested in pushing down others to point out their supremacy. Definitely not so with your site. Instead of insisting that people travel great distances to learn from you alone, you post a helpful guideline for students to be aware of when evaluating a teacher or class. That’s great! Like you, my teacher, George Ling Hu, often said that the particular style did not matter. Rather the focus should be on the tai chi principles and they should be evident in your practice, not just a list you recite. In my 21 years of practice I have seen the truth of this and applaud you pointing this out.
I will add a link to your site on my local website so that my students and others in the Houston, Texas area can access your impressive store of knowledge.
Thank you. Sincerely,
(Greg Illich)
I especially appreciated your comments regarding tai chi Competitions. I detest the shoving matches that pass for push hands, and the flowery forms and displays of gymnastic flexibility that seem to impress the judges. I generally suggest that my students go to a competition to compare and contrast what they see there, between various competitors and in class. They usually note the lack of the yielding principle and the ostentation, and egos, and are somewhat shocked.
I have found that most authors who have a negative view on most of what is being taught in tai chi classes are only interested in pushing down others to point out their supremacy. Definitely not so with your site. Instead of insisting that people travel great distances to learn from you alone, you post a helpful guideline for students to be aware of when evaluating a teacher or class. That’s great! Like you, my teacher, George Ling Hu, often said that the particular style did not matter. Rather the focus should be on the tai chi principles and they should be evident in your practice, not just a list you recite. In my 21 years of practice I have seen the truth of this and applaud you pointing this out.
I will add a link to your site on my local website so that my students and others in the Houston, Texas area can access your impressive store of knowledge.
Thank you. Sincerely,
(Greg Illich)
Friday
Piano & tai chi
If you want to learn any skill thoroughly and convincingly, you need to put in an awful lot of time.
Whether you are seeking to learn Spanish, cook like a gourmet chef or play the piano, it is just the same.
Practice, practice, practice.
There are no shortcuts...
Whether you are seeking to learn Spanish, cook like a gourmet chef or play the piano, it is just the same.
Practice, practice, practice.
There are no shortcuts...
Thursday
A bubble
In taijiquan peng refers to an unusual quality of integrity that is formed by creating a loose network of body parts.
It is akin to having a bubble around your body; except that the circumference of the bubble is your body itself.
Should any part of the bubble be pushed, it will yield and move. However, the overall structural integrity remains intact and resilient.
There is no resistance.
No pushing back or physical tension (contracted muscles).
It is akin to having a bubble around your body; except that the circumference of the bubble is your body itself.
Should any part of the bubble be pushed, it will yield and move. However, the overall structural integrity remains intact and resilient.
There is no resistance.
No pushing back or physical tension (contracted muscles).
Qigong
At first, even this simplest of all things - just
standing still for a few minutes - may seem impossible when you try it. Thirty
seconds may seem like an eternity; five minutes may be agony. The boredom may
drive you crazy. These reactions are simply the evidence of the constant tension
in your nervous system and proof that you need this exercise.
(Lam Kam Chuen)
(Lam Kam Chuen)
Wednesday
Grappling
Chinese grappling/wrestling is called 'shuai jiao'.
It is an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of approaches.
Shuai jiao is not to be confused with Western styles of wrestling.
It is an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of approaches.
Shuai jiao is not to be confused with Western styles of wrestling.
Tuesday
Monday
Colwyn Bay
We returned to Colwyn Bay. This time Peter Newton was hosting a Yang Jwing-Ming visit. Sifu, Peter Southwood, Michael Dutton and myself had travelled down together. Dr Yang was demonstrating push-hands with successive students of Newton and becoming exasperated by their limbo-dancing antics. He called out for a new student. Peter volunteered Sifu and he reluctantly stepped on stage. A vigorous push-hands followed with Dr Yang laughing out loud in delight. He stopped to tell the entire gathering how impressed he was with Sifu's skill and proceeded to use Sifu as his practice partner all weekend. Peter had a small smile on his face. This was the nearest I'd ever seen him to showing pride in his greatest student.
(Shaun Ullah)
Study
Taoism must be thoroughly examined, explored and understood.
An extensive and prolonged period of study, research, contemplation, meditation and application is necessary.
Taoism informed taijiquan, baguazhang and zen.
Omitting this study from your training is a major error.
The principles and practices of taoism represent the foundation of your art.
An extensive and prolonged period of study, research, contemplation, meditation and application is necessary.
Taoism informed taijiquan, baguazhang and zen.
Omitting this study from your training is a major error.
The principles and practices of taoism represent the foundation of your art.
Sunday
Example instructor (level 1) questions
Question: Class enthusiasm is poor:
- no one is interested in workshops
- people do not even reply to e-mails
- grading is met with indifference
- students typically will not train at home
When faced with such enormous apathy and indifference, how do we address this?
What does the martial arts (or tai chi) community suggest?
- no one is interested in workshops
- people do not even reply to e-mails
- grading is met with indifference
- students typically will not train at home
When faced with such enormous apathy and indifference, how do we address this?
What does the martial arts (or tai chi) community suggest?
Friday
Shadows & secrets
The ancient Chinese martial arts are veiled in mystery.
Each school teaches its own unique approach to the experience of self defence.
Historically, the training methods and applications of the different schools were closely guarded.
The most secretive and inaccessible were the neijia schools.
Each school teaches its own unique approach to the experience of self defence.
Historically, the training methods and applications of the different schools were closely guarded.
The most secretive and inaccessible were the neijia schools.
How an instructor should train
Sifu Waller's home training routine may seem like quite a lot of training.
However, consider it in terms of time:
Regular students should not be training like this.
However, consider it in terms of time:
-
1-2 hours of strength-building & qigong
-
30 minutes of baguazhang
-
15 minutes of drills
-
30 minutes of weapons
-
30 minutes of tai chi empty hand form
-
20 minutes of meditation
-
30 minutes of study
Regular students should not be training like this.
Thursday
Taoist mystic?
Taoism has a long history of mystics, alchemists and magicians.
There are many colourful accounts of oddball recluses who studied arcane practices in order to gain great skill and wisdom.
At the heart of the teachings is the desire to attain an altered state of consciousness.
To see the world through different eyes.
Taoists aim to become a "real human being"; in-touch with reality is a tangible, earthy way.
They avoid fame, worldliness and repute; remaining in the shadows, in secret and aloof.
There are many colourful accounts of oddball recluses who studied arcane practices in order to gain great skill and wisdom.
At the heart of the teachings is the desire to attain an altered state of consciousness.
To see the world through different eyes.
Taoists aim to become a "real human being"; in-touch with reality is a tangible, earthy way.
They avoid fame, worldliness and repute; remaining in the shadows, in secret and aloof.
Wednesday
Monday
Why do students go bad?
Why do students go bad? That's easy. They're jealous and they're lazy. Without exception.
I can't think of a single resentful ex-student who wasn't lazy and arrogant. If it's true of my karate class, its probably true of your tai chi group too...
(Andrew Clarke)
Sunday
Shoulder joint discomfort
Incorrect peng will cause discomfort in the shoulder joint.
If there is a tangible sense of mild pain, it must not be ignored.
Poor bodily awareness and an insensitive nervous system can mean that an inexperienced student may not even feel discomfort initially.
Be mindful.
Taijiquan does not cause pain in the body.
Any indication of pain is caused by a prior health-problem or incorrect body use.
Correct your posture repeatedly until discomfort is removed.
If there is a tangible sense of mild pain, it must not be ignored.
Poor bodily awareness and an insensitive nervous system can mean that an inexperienced student may not even feel discomfort initially.
Be mindful.
Taijiquan does not cause pain in the body.
Any indication of pain is caused by a prior health-problem or incorrect body use.
Correct your posture repeatedly until discomfort is removed.
Saturday
Class members
Regular students may choose to join the school and work through a structured training program.
They become formal class members.
Benefits of membership:
They become formal class members.
Benefits of membership:
- work through the curriculum
- grade every 3 months
- request bespoke tuition
- seek training guidance and advice from Sifu Waller
- take private lessons
- attend class functions
- attend workshops
- attend bootcamp
Maths
A = number of years spent training
B = number of days in a year spent training
C = number of hours per day spent training
A x B x C = how many hours you have trained (approximately)
B = number of days in a year spent training
C = number of hours per day spent training
A x B x C = how many hours you have trained (approximately)
Friday
Mind, body, spirit
Instead of feeling apart from what is happening, we feel the physics of the
movement, the kinetic flow.
Our own body and our self-consciousness is lost in the event itself.
There is no more self or other, just movement, just sensation/feeling.
When your mind/body/spirit integration is complete, you act so unconsciously that you no longer really feel the movements as such.
It is spontaneous and natural. It just happened.
Our own body and our self-consciousness is lost in the event itself.
There is no more self or other, just movement, just sensation/feeling.
When your mind/body/spirit integration is complete, you act so unconsciously that you no longer really feel the movements as such.
It is spontaneous and natural. It just happened.
Thursday
Instructor training courses (members-only)
There are 3 instructor grades in our school:
- Level 1
- training takes place during 3rd dan
- Level 2
- training takes place during 6th dan
- 10,000 hours of practice required
- Level 3
- training takes whilst working on 7th dan
Having completed each level of instructor training, the student is given a certificate qualifying them to teach our syllabus.
Wednesday
Health?
Martial tai chi runs the risk of throwing the baby out with the bath water.
Over-emphasising the martial denies the student the necessary foundation in the important health aspects of the art.
Coordination, relaxation, whole-body movement, breathing, improved blood circulation, neigong and qi are all essential for health.
Ditching the health training may lead to long-term problems.
Over-emphasising the martial denies the student the necessary foundation in the important health aspects of the art.
Coordination, relaxation, whole-body movement, breathing, improved blood circulation, neigong and qi are all essential for health.
Ditching the health training may lead to long-term problems.
Swimming
Swimming is an activity that can either create
structural problems or release them depending upon the way it is taught and
practiced. Professional swimmers are known to develop shoulder tendonitis and
kyphosis. Overriding head/neck righting reflexes (as occurs when the head is
repeatedly turned but the body does not follow) eventually result in
overdeveloping shoulder muscles, pinching nerves and distorting the rib cage.
(Liz Koch)
(Liz Koch)
Tuesday
Monday
Journey
Of all the people who begin the discipline of tai chi, only a handful will continue past a year or so. Humility, compassion, lack of ambition, non-aggression, spontaneity and silence are not qualities that our societies value. There is no more difficult journey than the journey to the self.
(John Lash)
Sunday
Higher & lower peng
When the peng needs to be higher, the elbow does not lift.
Fingers to the ceiling, elbow to the floor.
When the peng needs to be lower, the elbow remains where it is and the fingers go lower.
Maintain open kwa at all times.
Fingers to the ceiling, elbow to the floor.
When the peng needs to be lower, the elbow remains where it is and the fingers go lower.
Maintain open kwa at all times.
Saturday
Offensive jing
It is important to remember that peng is actually an offensive jing.
Correct application is not passive.
You should aim to uproot the opponent using peng, and potentially take their balance entirely.
Skilful use of peng should provide you with a rounded pliable framework that can penetrate defences.
Correct application is not passive.
You should aim to uproot the opponent using peng, and potentially take their balance entirely.
Skilful use of peng should provide you with a rounded pliable framework that can penetrate defences.
Friday
Bones
Correct alignment of the body will enable you to use
your body with less effort and greater strength.
Counteracting the force of gravity is a key consideration.
The vertebrae and joints must be free to move in a fluid, smooth manner.
Physical tension and bad muscular habits impede the ability to move spontaneously and freely.
Tension is the enemy of movement.
The more tense you are, the less you can move.
Counteracting the force of gravity is a key consideration.
The vertebrae and joints must be free to move in a fluid, smooth manner.
Physical tension and bad muscular habits impede the ability to move spontaneously and freely.
Tension is the enemy of movement.
The more tense you are, the less you can move.
The Art of War
When Sun Tzu speaks of invisibility, he is speaking about moving without attracting the attention of your opponent:
- Concealment
- Covert
- Disguise
- Espionage
- Hidden
- Misdirection
- Secrecy
- Stealth
Sun Tzu wrote a whole section on spying.
From a self defence perspective this is very useful.
You do not need to become a spy, but you can learn how to avoid being noticed.
From a self defence perspective this is very useful.
You do not need to become a spy, but you can learn how to avoid being noticed.
Thursday
Understanding the instructor?
One of the problems for students is that they fail to recognise just how massive the syllabus really is, and that a master level 7th dan instructor is operating at a level that they cannot understand.
Tuesday
Invisibility in combat
The main two methods of invisibility in self defence work are:
- Cold jing
- Being unseen by the opponent
Cold jing is the act of striking without any discernable build-up. It must be a spontaneous, whole-body action.
There are many ways to remain unseen. By evading the line of force - without blocking - you gain an interval of time in which to act.
Concealment, misdirection, feinting and luring can be used to keep the attacker doubtful and hesitant.
If you only employ 4 ounces of pressure at all times, then the attacker cannot feel your actions in advance.
Stepping, evasion, listening and sensitivity all provide opportunities to disguise your direction and intentions.
Unorthodoxy, unpredictability, improvisation, adaptation and change make your actions difficult to anticipate and respond to.
There are many ways to remain unseen. By evading the line of force - without blocking - you gain an interval of time in which to act.
Concealment, misdirection, feinting and luring can be used to keep the attacker doubtful and hesitant.
If you only employ 4 ounces of pressure at all times, then the attacker cannot feel your actions in advance.
Stepping, evasion, listening and sensitivity all provide opportunities to disguise your direction and intentions.
Unorthodoxy, unpredictability, improvisation, adaptation and change make your actions difficult to anticipate and respond to.
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