Introduction

This course is designed for students of all nationalities and is suitable for complete beginners and elementary level students. The primary aim is to develop basic Wushu skills, focusing on introducing elementary Wushu theory and the teaching and training of Wushu. A mixture of basic and traditional Wushu is taught.

The course structure comprises:

Introduction to Elementary Wushu

• Competition martial arts

• Traditional martial arts

• Fitness & Health martial arts

Introduction to Intermediate Wushu

• Competition martial arts

• Traditional martial arts

• Fitness & Health martial arts

Objectives and Expectations

By the end of this course a student should:

• be able to understand the difference between Eastern and Western concepts of martial arts.

•be able to demonstrate and practise basic Wushu techniques and routines from competition to traditional styles.

• have acquired a deep understanding of the cultural significance and relevance of Chinese martial arts.

• have an understanding of the physical and psychological benefits of Chinese Wushu, and be able to apply these skills to further improve their mental and physical health.

Content

Basic Exercises and Techniques

• Hand form. Stances. Hand Techniques. Footwork. Leg Techniques. Jumps. etc.

• Elementary and intermediate Boxing play

• Elementary and intermediate Broadsword play

• Elementary and intermediate Sword play

Traditional Wushu Exercises

• Eight forms Tai ji fist

• Twenty four forms Tai ji fist

• Thirty two forms Tai ji sword

• Xingyi fist (Five Element Boxing)

• Bagua Zhang (Eight Diagram Palm)

• Twenty four forms Flower Boxing

Fitness and Health Wushu Exercises

• Ba Duan Jin - Eight Section Brocade Exercise

• Yi Jing Jin – ‘Classic of Changes’ or ‘Book of Changes’ Exercise

• Dao Yin - Daoyin Life Nourishing Exercises

Combat or Defensive Skills

• Introduction to basic combat techniques.

• Pushing Hands Exercise.

Course Duration and Class Size

Two ten-week courses will be run each year. Each week involves one session of one and a half hours. Students are expected to practise in their own time to hone their skills.

Class sizes will be limited to about ten students per course.