Training

Training

We assume that the student who joins either the Kung Fu or T’ai Chi program is looking for some improvement in their fitness level. Therefore we assume that the beginning student is feeling a little out of shape and inflexible, and we begin training at a gentle pace. We begin each class with some form of warm-up. Kung Fu has a series of exercises performed before every class and T’ai Chi begins with the class performing the 24 movement Yang Family T’ai Chi form together as they watch and follow the instructor. Once the muscles are warm and stretched, class begins. We encourage modification of movements to compensate for any old injury or ache you may be nursing when you join.

For the beginning student who is in prime form and has been exercising regularly, don’t despair. Everything can be done more intensely during class when appropriate, and we encourage attendance in our more advanced and rigorous conditioning and warrior classes.

In a short time, you will find yourself moving faster and stronger, bending lower and kicking higher! It sneaks up on you! So many times we’ve heard people say, “I’ll never be able to do that!” Then a few months later, we remind them of it as we watch them execute the same move perfectly.

The curriculum is such that you progress very smoothly both in the complexity of the movements and in the degree of physical challenge. This way your body and your brain receive constant challenge but at a safe and controlled rate.