Stick drills

Stick drills can be performed with two lengths of stick:

1. Navel height
2. Armpit height

Students are recommended to start with a navel height stick.

The drills encourage suppleness in the arms and wrists, connection and coordination.
They are an excellent training tool for students who suffer from stiff shoulders or are struggling to extend power out of their bodies.

The beauty of stick drills is that they train a variety of skills at the same time.

2-person cane form/drill

This is a short 2-person set of high intensity.
The furious vigour of the drill will tax the nervous system.
It requires a significant degree of composure and a sharp, clear mind; focussed on the here and now.
The cane must be navel height.
The drill must be trained A and B side, and mirrored.

Small stick drills

Simple, fast and technically demanding, this set is an exercise is economy of movement, presence and focus.
It continues on where the knife drills left off and is reminiscent of silk arms. 
The drill must be trained A and B side, and mirrored.

Weapons night

Students are given the option of learning weapons after passing their second belt.
Weapons training helps to increase strength, flexibility and coordination.
It improves the ability to use either hand.

Rubber-coated sticks are required for partner exercises.

If a student wants to learn broadsword drills they will need to bring their own sword.

Stick drill - number 7

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEUpskKm4IQ

Weapons work in our curriculum

Master Waller is currently teaching:

· Knife drills
· Countering a knife
· Escapes/knife
· Chin na against a knife
· Improvised weaponry/knife
· Small stick drills
· Stick drills
· Broadsword drills
· 2 person cane form/drill
· Sabre form
· Staff form
· Walking stick form
· Straight sword form

Some of this training is suitable for tai chi for health & fitness students.

Heavy weapons

The sabre and straight sword are actually quite heavy to wield.
Students are recommended to start with a lighter weapon.
This may entail buying a fairly cheap sword to start with; perhaps even a wushu weapon.

Once experienced, you may want to buy a better sword.

One way of developing strength is to practice the staff form and stick drills with an oak stick.
This must be approached carefully to avoid the risk of strain or injury.
Rest tired muscles and avoid speed.
Slow, controlled movements are best for strength-building.

Weapons work in our curriculum

Sifu Waller is currently teaching:

· Knife drills
· Countering a knife
· Escapes/knife
· Chin na against a knife
· Improvised weaponry/knife
· Small stick drills
· Stick drills
· Broadsword drills
· 2 person cane form/drill
· Sabre form
· Staff form
· Walking stick form
· Straight sword form 

You can work your way through all of the weapons.