Your First Lessons!

I. Saluting for Respect

Upon hearing the gong sounded or the words “line up!”, the students are to quickly line up according to rank. Rank falls into a descending order with the highest-ranked student in the front row and to the far right. Students are to be in “Ready Position” with feet together and both fists drawn to the sides. Classes begin with respect and end with respect by means of a formal Chinese salute. It is formed by having the right fist meet the left palm in the center of the body and extending the union forward (see Sifu on page 1). We prefer to call it a salute rather than a “bow” because it has no religious connotation. The salute can be thought of as a greeting or acknowledgment of rank, much like in the military when a private salutes to a lieutenant. The key element here is respect.respect for order, respect for rank, and respect for yourself.

II. Stance Training

After saluting, the student will usually hear the words: “Horse Stance – hup!” Stance training means that the student will stand in certain positions for a period of time (usually 1 minute at the beginner level) to build strength and stamina. This training separates traditional Kung Fu from other martial arts. Stance training will promote stronger legs which, in turn, will increase your balance and endurance. Although uncomfortable at first, this conditioning will become easier after a few short weeks! You will gain greater agility and mental focus.

III. Stretching

Immediately after the legs are warmed up from stance training, we begin a vast series of stretches to improve your flexibility and overall range of motion. This denotes that we do more than just stretching the legs for higher kicks--- the whole body is stretched. Stretching should be done gradually and consistently. This promotes stronger muscles and will give you speed, increased blood circulation, pliability, and coordinated movement. You will be invigorated like never before!

IV. Techniques, Drills, Forms, Chin-Na, and Basic Self-Defense

After stretching, class will be led by the Sifu or an advanced member in which training techniques are taught from a “Horse” stance and gradually foot movements are incorporated with the hand techniques. A sturdy foundation is essential for learning Kung Fu. Thus, all basic punches, kicks, strikes, and stances will originate from the horse stance. Techniques and drills will be taught slowly for comprehension, regardless of your previous background. Forms and self-defense movements will be repeated until they are flowing and become a natural reflexive motion. Remember, you are learning an art!