This seminar’s lecture began with Sifu talking about some of the many weapons found in Chinese Martial Arts, ranging from the Dao or Broadsword to the Shuang Gou or double hook sword. Whilst some of the weapons are very common, the double hook swords are quite unique both in their shape and ability to be combined together (using the hooks) to further extend their reach. Each sword has multiple cutting faces, making then an extremely formidable weapon. The Nine Section Whip is also a very versatile weapon that can be used for both long-range and close-quarter fighting, as well as being effective against multiple opponents.
Following a short break we continued learning the new form, first by repeating the opening movements before learning the next sequence. From the beginning this form is quite tricky as we spin the whip forwards and backwards whilst changing position; luckily we all have the rope and ball training aid, which is more forgiving when you make a mistake than the metal chain used in the real whip.
by Rick Charles
Student Comments
Really enjoy the challenge of moving together with the rigid and flexible parts of the sword. Thanks for sharing White Crane Sword with us, Sigong! -Kay
Really enjoying the White Crane Sword. Picked up quite a few details from the new part today, particularly what the empty hand is doing. It is so much fun playing with the tassel, and so good to challenge the brain! Thank you Sigong. Christine
Another challenge this weekend with the new warm-up movement, but in practising these moves we can begin to appreciate the skill in controlling the long tassel. As usual the seminar was extremely enjoyable, and I can’t wait to learn more. Thank-you Sifu.
Rick
I’m loving this form more every time. It is interesting that it forces you to train flow – you can’t just stop in the middle of a movement, think about the next bit, and then continue. If you do that the tassel has stopped and the movement won’t work.
Thank you Sigong.
Paul Hogg
I really enjoyed learning a new warm up and quite a long new section. With each session my understanding of how to move the tassel improves and I feel more and more addicted to the form. Thank you for a wonderful seminar. Taisigong. Daniel
The warm-up exercises are easier now and there is still a lot to learn on how best to apply the energy to the sword and the tassel. I am enjoying White Crane sword form quite a lot as it is challenging me and teaching me correct application. Thank you Sifu
-Radu