Wu Dang San Feng 28 Movement Tai Chi Seminar Series
What: 6 Week Wu Dang San Feng 28 Movement Tai Chi Seminar Series
When: Sundays, 10am-11:30am (optional review 9:30-10am).
April 23 - June 4, (no class May 28 Memorial Day weekend).
Cost: $65 for 6 x 1.5 -2 hour classes!
CMAA will be presenting a 6 week course centering on the Wu Dang San Feng 28 Movement Tai Chi form. This short form is based on one of the crown jewels of the Wu Dang Internal Martial Arts - the Wu Dang San Feng 108 Movement Tai Chi form. This traditional long 108 form is taught by Dashi Jianye Jiang here at CMAA on Saturdays at 10:00. This 28 form offers an excellent opportunity, particularly for beginners but for the more advanced practitioner as well, to learn the original movements in a condensed format. The postures will be presented in accordance with the way Dashi performs them so this will provide a strong stepping stone in learning and refining the 108 form ( a lifelong pursuit).
About the Instructor:
Shawn Fariss is a current student of Dashi Jianye Jiang and Shifu Lucas Gellar here at CMAA. He has been studying Tai Chi since 2007. In 2011, after a China trip with Dashi to several famous Daoist sites including Wu Dang Mt. , he decided to narrow his focus to Wu dang Internal Martial Arts. He's continued learning the traditional Wu Dang 108 form with Dashi but beginning in 2012 also began traveling to Boston several times a year to train and learn with a foreign ambassador of Wu Dang Mt. , Master Zhong Xue Chao(aka - Master Bing, http://www.wudangdao.com/) and the ever gracious hosts Paul and Rosalie DiCrescenzo of Shuang Long Dao or Two Dragons Path. Master Bing has provided Shawn with the opportunity to delve deeper into the Wu Dang Internal Martial Arts teaching him several forms within the San Feng Pai system including the Mother Tai Chi 13 form, Xuan Wu, Tai Chi straight sword and a BaguaZhang form called Eight Diagrams Palm plus more. In addition Shawn has been training at Latham CrossFit here at CMAA since 2013 and sees it as the perfect external complement to his health and fitness goals.
Happy Chinese New Year! This year is the Year of the Rooster. In a Rooster Year, all of the Chinese animals can reap great rewards by tapping into Rooster traits. Loyalty, commitment, hard work, family values, and top-notch appearances are just some of the characteristics that will be rewarded this year. From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, you won’t want to miss out on the action at CMAA!
School Closings Sash Test Recap Master Ching Yin-Lee Seminar Recap Kungfu for the Movies TaiChi’s Science of Softness Beautiful Tai Chi Wushu Kungfu – Until the Day I Die Persistence Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program
School Closings
Shifu Lucas and Shimu Zoey will be traveling to China to celebrate the Chinese New Year with family. CMAA Kungfu Classes will be cancelled on Weds 25th, Thurs 26, Fri 27th, Mon 30th, Tuesday 31st, and Wednesday 1st. Kungfu is OPEN Saturday the 28th. Tai Chi and CrossFit will be held as regularly scheduled.
Please note there will be no Chinese School Kungfu class on Sunday the 28th. Chinese school students are welcome to take a free class any Saturday from 11:15-12:30 at the academy as a makeup. Please just call in advance to let me know.
Chinese New Year Celebrations and Kungfu Performances
Clifton Park Halfmoon Library: Saturday, Jan 28th at 1pm.
East Greenbush YMCA: Sunday, Jan 29th at 5 pm.
The Egg: Saturday, February 4 at 3pm
Come support your team and enjoy the cultural celebration!
This year’s New Year Celebration at the Egg will include performances by the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts. More info here: https://www.cccalbany.org/2017NewYear
Kungfu Sash Test Recap
I was very proud to watch my team at CMAA sash test. Everyone rose to the occasion and truly performed their best.
Chinese School Kungfu
This year’s Chinese School Kungfu Class! Lots of new faces. Some students have more natural talent, and some have great interest- however, they all have GREAT POTENTIAL! I wonder who will prove to be a future CMAA black belt!
Master Ching Yin Lee Seminars
It was a great day, with a bunch of great people, doing just what we love. What else is there? Thanks so much to Master Ching Yin Lee (Coach Bee) for sharing his knowledge, enthusiasm and genuine love of the arts with us! Can’t wait to see you again next year!
Kungfu for the Movies
In addition to individual empty/weapons routines, wushu kungfu also includes group choreographed fighting sets. The trend in competition has seen a transition from practical to spectacular. Here is an example of Wushu sparring routines.
Tai Chi’s Science of Softness
by Dan Pasek
Weber’s Law of Just Noticeable Differences can help us understand our perceptions of changes in force against an opponent when practicing Taijiquan. Weber’s Law applies to most types of perception, like the perception of different light intensity or duration or wavelength (color), loudness or length or pitch of sounds, and even psychological perceptions like differences in costs for products or services.
In Taijiquan, the major sense that we are training is touch.. Read more here: http://slantedflying.com/softness-sensitivity-and-science-in-taijiquan/
Beautiful Tai Chi
Wushu Kungfu – Until the Day I Die
Wushu is such an incredible discipline. Its good fun and great exercise. Though the flips and kicks might not be something our students will continue to do forever, the mindset is something they will carry with them long after they leave the gym. Focus and discipline, commitment and dedication are things they will practice for a lifetime.
Persistence
Persistence! Never give up. This is one of the most valuable lessons in martial arts!
Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program
The Chinese Martial Arts Academy is proud to present the Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program. Developing group management and interpersonal communication skills are the cornerstone of the programs agenda. In addition, the study of learning theory and education play a pivotal role as the students become teachers and take theory to practice.
“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”
– Theodore Roosevelt.
To find out more about this program please come speak with Shifu about how to qualify for this select program!
Summary
As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!
From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, you won’t want to miss out on the action!
School Closings Holiday Dinner Party Recap Movie Night Recap Sash Test Master Ching Yin-Lee (2 x USA National Team Member) Seminars Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program The Benefits of Wushu Qigong (Chi Kung) Documentary Incredible Wushu Kungfu Demonstrations! Chinese Community Center Kungfu Performance
Life Lessons From a Shaolin Monk
CMAA Class Photos
School Closings
CMAA Kungfu Classes will be cancelled on Weds 25th, Thurs 26, Fri 27th, Mon 30th, Tuesday 31st, and Wednesday 1st. Kungfu is open Saturday the 28th. Tai Chi and CrossFit will be held as regularly scheduled.
Additionally, with the winter weather looming, please stay tuned to inclement weather closings. I will post school closings on Facebook and the website’s homepage. However, it might not display on certain mobile devices which automatically default to the mobile site. Please call (518) 755-7512 if you are not sure!
Holiday Dinner Party
What a special get-together. With delicious food and good company it was a wonderful evening of eating, drinking and being merry. Although not everyone could make it, it was wonderful to get our long time students together with the new generation just beginning at CMAA. In the spirit of the holiday season, it was very special to spend our time together with our other family – the CMAA family. I look forward to celebrating with you all again next year.
Movie Night Recap
In 20 years of martial arts I've learned countless empty hand, and weapons routines from Karate, Kungfu, Tai Chi, Qigong. I've trained BJJ, Judo, Wrestling, Muay Thai, Boxing, Aiki-jujitsu, Kali and JKD. I practice everyday to refine old techniques. I am also fortunate to be able to continue learning from great people on a daily basis. I always share all that I know and to help students better understand techniques and connect the dots.
As a "Shifu" I try and impart as much of my technical knowledge as possible. However, since I began teaching about 6 years ago, I have come to greatly value the non-technical aspects of martial arts training. "Healthier and happier through martial arts" has become my mantra. I love to know CMAA can be a positive force in people’s lives and that students will form friendships that will last a lifetime.
I was legitimately excited to hang out with my kids last night. They are so much fun to be with. It's awesome watching them grow up.
Kungfu Sash Test
Please note that we will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, January 8th, at 10:30 am.
You know exactly what we will be testing but if you have any questions, check the Sash Requirements page on the website and feel free to clarify things with me during class.
http://www.martialartsalbany.com/kungfu-sash-requirements/
If you are unsure whether or not you (or your child) are ready to test, please speak with me before or during class, via email at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or by phone (518) 755-7512.
Remember, you will not “get” your sash at CMAA – you will EARN it! There is a big difference. It’s important you (your child) learns the value of their sash- the value of hard work! Let’s stay focused and step up our training so we’re fully prepared for the test!
CMAA is proud to announce a weekend full of exciting martial arts action with Master Ching Yin Lee! Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to diversify our training experience and enhance our general knowledge of Chinese Martial Arts.
Saturday, Jan. 14th
9:15-10:15 Bagua
10:15-11:15 Xing Yi
11:15-12:15 Kungfu Animal Styles for Kids
12:30-2 Wushu Kungfu Advanced Combos and Jump Kicks
2-3:30 Kungfu Applications (Techniques, theories and drills)
Sunday, Jan. 15th
10-11 Individual Forms Correction/Refinement
11-12 Individual Forms Correction/Refinement
3-4 Individual Forms Correction/Refinement
4-5 Individual Forms Correction/Refinement
Learn more about each of the seminars below!
Baguazhang is an internal martial art rooted in Taoism and these Chinese Classic: "The Book of Changes." The art features body movements and twisting as well as circular footwork that improve the strength of the body, the health of the organs, and brain activity. From a martial arts standpoint, Bagua prefers elusive, sidestepping footwork and usage of different fight angles. Many martial artists consider Bagua to be the most difficult to learn out of the three main internal martial arts: Taijiquan, Xingyiquan, and Baguazhang. This seminar will focus on the fundamentals of Baguazhang.
Xingyiquan is an internal martial art that was created as a military style for Chinese officers to end a confrontation as quickly as possible. It is seemingly the most aggressive and direct between the three internal styles: Taijiquan, Baguazhang, and Xingyiquan. The art is based around five elements and twelve animals. Each element (metal, water, wood, fire, and earth) strengthens each of the five major internal organs. From a martial arts standpoint, Xingyi was patterned off of spear movements and always aims to move forward and attack (compared to Taiji, which tries to neutralize or redirect, or Bagua, which tries to sidestep or elude). The main fundamentals of Xingyi will be emphasized in this seminar.
Kungfu Animal Styles for Kids! Chinese Martial Artists have a long history of imitating animals in nature to improve their fighting abilities. Both Tai Chi and Wing Chun were purported to have been inspired by a fight between a snake and a crane. This seminar will cover some of the classic animal styles of Chinese Martial Arts, including the monkey, eagle, and praying mantis. The seminar will include animal movements as well as theory and application.
Advance Longfist Kungfu Combos and Jumps! The advanced Longfist seminar will cover advanced combinations and principles including open and closed body movements, vertical transitions, and how to refine postures. Next, advanced jump kicks and combinations will be covered as well.
Kung Fu Applications! This seminar will cover theory and principles universal to most Traditional Chinese Martial Arts. This includes discussion of the root, bridge hand, fighting angles, jing, and developing sensitivity.
Private Small Group Training for all levels. The individual forms small group sessions/private lessons will be geared towards giving students individual feedback based on their body types and will focus on refining movements and improving the expression and power of the forms.
$30 for one seminar, $55 for two, $75 for three, $90 Unlimited (Including Individual Forms/Small Group Session!
(*Classes limited to 6 participants per class. Participants have unlimited access to Saturday’s seminars and 1 Private Group Training or 2 Individual Group Session if not attending any seminars on Saturday! *Preference: Please arrive 15 mins early to warm up!)
____________________________________________________
Ching Yin Lee is a 2 x USA National Wushu Kungfu Team member, Pan-American Games Medalist and head instructor at GOSU Institute of Chinese Martial Arts. With over 20 years in Traditional Kungfu, Modern Wushu, Amateur Kickboxing and Internal training, Master Lee brings a wealth of knowledge to CMAA!
Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program
The Chinese Martial Arts Academy is proud to present the Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program. Developing group management and interpersonal communication skills are the cornerstone of the programs agenda. In addition, the study of learning theory and education play a pivotal role as the students become teachers and take theory to practice.
“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”
– Theodore Roosevelt.
To find out more about this program please come speak with Shifu about how to qualify for this select program!
The Benefits of Wushu Kungfu
By Lucas Geller
Why do people practice Wushu (Chinese Martial Arts)? Do martial arts still serve a purpose in contemporary society? As someone who’s life has been so greatly affected by the martial arts it is easy for me to say ‘Yes’. While the purpose of training martial arts has changed, the benefits remain as numerous.
Qigong (Chi Kung) Documentary
Very interesting and informative documentary about Chinese Qigong (Chi Kung) health practices. I feel so lucky to have trained with Master Duan 15 years ago when he visited our school. Enjoy!
Incredible Wushu Kungfu Demonstrations!
Two incredible Wushu Kungfu Performances. Here are two examples of the styles we practice at CMAA – Chang Quan (Longfist) and Nan Quan (Southern)! Which style do you like more?
Longfist
Southern
Chinese Community Center Kungfu Performance
So proud of these kids for volunteering today to showcase Chinese martial arts at their community center! Check out some of these great action shots!
Life Lessons From a Shaolin Monk
1. Don’t take anything for granted
2. Passions – not possessions – make you happy
3. Don’t fear death, live
4. Stopping will help you go further
5. Meditate every day
6. Don’t be afraid of silence
7. Wake early and embrace the day8. Find your goal, find yourself
9. Give 100% every day
10. Responsibility gives you purpose
11.Find your ‘why’
From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, don’t miss out on the action!
School Closings
Holiday Dinner Party
Kids Kungfu Party
Kungfu Sash Test
USA National Kungfu Team member Ching Yin Lee SeminarsNO EXCUSES
Wushu Kungfu Flying
Problems in the Health and Fitness Community
The #2 Health Measure
School Closings
CMAA will be closed for a winter holiday from Friday December 23rd through Monday the 26th.
Kungfu Sash Test
Let’s start 2017 by working hard and making progress in your Kungfu practice! We will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, January 8th at 10:30am. If you are not sash testing you are still encouraged to come participate and support your teammates (no charge of course).
You know exactly what we will be testing but if you have any questions, check the Sash Requirements page on the website and feel free to clarify things with me during class. http://www.martialartsalbany.com/kungfu-sash-requirements/
If you are unsure whether or not you (or your child) are ready to test, please speak with me before or during class, via email at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or by phone (518) 755-7512.
Remember, you will not “get” your sash at CMAA – you will EARN it! There is a big difference. It’s important you (your child) learns the value of their sash- the value of hard work! Let’s stay focused and step up our training so we’re fully prepared for the test!
White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold/Black: $75
CMAA Holiday Events!
This year we will be holding two different events to spend quality time together. The first will be a Holiday Dinner Party for the adults in our Kungfu and Tai Chi programs. The second will be a kid focused party at the school.
Holiday Dinner Party
Please joint us at the best Chinese restaurant in the Capital District for our annual holiday dinner party!
With all the holidays and family get-togethers this time of year, we would like to organize a time for the CMAA family to be together outside the school. Please join us for a holiday dinner celebration!
Date: Sunday, Dec. 18th!
Time: 2:30pm-5:30pm
Location: Ala Shanghai, 468 Troy Schenectady Rd, Latham, NY 12110
Please reserve your spot ASAP as space is limited! The cost is $15/kids (12 and under) and $20/Adults. Please pay in advance by check or cash at the school as we have reserved the restaurant for our group.
*Deadline: Please register ASAP as the party size is limited and we expect to reach capacity!
CMAA Kungfu Movie and Pizza Party!
Event: Kungfu Movie and Pizza Night at CMAA!
Movie: Kungfu Panda 3!
Date: Saturday, Dec. 17th
Time: 5:30pm -8:30pm.
Limited: 8-22*
Parents are welcome to drop your children off for the evening to get things done before the holidays (or just enjoy a relaxing night out). Non CMAA students (siblings and friends) are welcome too!
We will have a minimum sign up of 8 people and a maximum of 22. The cost is $25 per child under 13 years old, $15 for individuals 13+. However, additional persons accompanied by a parent acting as a chaperone will be permitted at the rate of $10/child and $10/parent. Students accompanied by their chaperone parent will not count toward the total number of signups.
Please register by Friday, Dec. 16th. However, the earlier your register the better as space will be limited!
USA National Kungfu Team member Ching Yin Lee Seminars
CMAA is proud to announce that GOSU Wushu head instructor Ching Yin Lee will be traveling to CMAA to offer several seminars. With over 20 years of training, Ching Yin Lee is a 2 x USA National Wushu Team Member, Pan-American Games Competitor, amateur kickboxer, and internal stylist. Stay tuned for a full description of a weekend of seminars including: Bagua, Xing Yi, Kungfu Animal Styles for Kids, Wushu Long Fist Advanced Combos and Jump Kicks, Kungfu Applications (Techniques, pads/two person drills,etc.) and 4 seperate sessions for Individual Forms Correction/Refinement (group privates)!
NO EXCUSES
This man is an incredible mover with a very inspiring story
Wushu Kungfu Flying
Just another training session in China, where martial artists practice defying gravity.
Problems in the Health and Fitness Community
The other day a student emailed me and asked a question related to a school project. “What are 3-5 things wrong with the community in the health and fitness area?” Well, I thought a lot about it. While there are many good things happening in in the health and fitness community, there are also several things that currently need to be addressed. Let me know what you think? What else should we be looking at?
1. Distorted ideas of body image lead to a misunderstanding of health and fitness. In this day and age from a young age we are exposed to a distorted view of health and wellness. Barbies and GI Joe have become reality when people with good genetics, a lifestyle dedicated toward looking a certain way are now aided by the miracles of science and technology. Take a gifted athlete and put them on steroids and pharmaceutical grade fat burners, and tack on plastic surgery (breast/butt implants, botox, liposuction, etc), add makeup, photoshop and some Instagram filters and you will see a whole new type of physique that misleads the general populations understanding of health and fitness.
2. Many people take a backwards approach to health and fitness. We look at examples of people healthy and fit and set our goals of losing 10 lbs, having a six pack, or developing a certain muscle group and try to reverse engineer the process of becoming healthy and fit. We need to take a holistic approach and say I will focus on performance first. I will eat, rest and train to perform better (become faster, stronger, etc) and let body composition be a byproduct of our efforts instead of setting superficial goals and trying to achieve them as a demonstration of our health and wellness.
3. The community is fragmented and we focus on the differences and instead of focusing on the universal truths that span disciplines. With a variety of specific traditional schools of thought like gymnastics, olympic weightlifting, Pilates and yoga each touting their own validity it's easy to overlook the benefits that all these disciplines have to offer: progression based functional movement.
4. Sensationalized and misleading media provides a huge obstacle toward health/wellness for the general public. The media in an effort to make things sound more dramatic often confuses certain issues by oversimplifying or even misinterpreting things. Fats are bad, carbs are bad, CrossFit is dangerous, meat/dairy give you cancer, etc. The general public is often the victim of sensationalized, oversimplified or even misinterpreted scientific studies which can make navigating certain health issues very difficult.
5. A lack of health and fitness metrics and progressions towards improvements. I speak with many people who exercise by either running, or going to the gym but who don’t have any way of quantifying/qualifying their efforts or who’s method won’t provide them with insight which will allow for improvement. One of the best ways to measure improvement is to identify certain baselines for either speed (how fast you can accomplish something, like a mile or 5K run for example) or strength (how heavy a load you are capable of moving in a certain pattern like bench press or deadlift).
6. BONUS ANSWER: One of the biggest problems in our society is a lack of individual accountability. Everyone’s too busy, everyone has a bad knee or a bad back, everyone looks for pharmaceuticals to do things their too lazy to take care of in the gym/kitchen. It’s seen as unimportant, selfish, or conceited to make a serious commitment to one’s physical health. Everyone should make their health and wellness a priority. It doesn’t have to be their #1 priority, but it can not be overlooked or minimized.
The #2 Health Measure
A little gross but important to talk about and be aware of.
Summary
As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!
Dear Friends,
From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, don’t miss out on the action!
School Closings Kungfu Sash Test Recap USA National Kungfu Team member Kevin Qin’s Kungfu Seminars Recap Kungfu/Tai Chi Competitions Resources For Home Practice Student of the Month – Justin and Reagan Li CMAA Black Belt Max Bruni Festival of Nations The Most Powerful Kungfu in the Universe Tai Chi Posture and Power Harvard Health Ranks Tai Chi in Top 5 Best Exercises! Happy Halloween From CMAA!
CMAA School Cleaning
CMAA Holiday Dinner Party
School Closings
CMAA will be closed November 24th for Thanksgiving!
Kungfu Sash Test Recap
Great job you guys. It was wonderful to see so many students making progress at various levels. From Emily, who at 4 yeas old earned her white belt, to Max, who at 15 earned his black belt, the sash test was a clear demonstration of the martial arts journey. While we have many siblings and classmates in one group, it also showcased our martial arts family emphasis. I take a lot of pride in seeing our students connect, become friends and treat each other respectfully. Great work everyone, you are on your way to greatness!
USA National Kungfu Team member Kevin Qin’s Kungfu Seminars Recap
I was fortunate enough to train with Kevin Qin about 6 years ago. We trained together at Omei Wushu under Lu Xiao Lin. Though I spent several year training there from 2003-2007, our paths didn’t cross until I returned to the area in 2010. Since then it’s been great following his success on the national and international competition scene. Though many of the concepts Kevin talked about were things we’ve addressed, I always see immediate improvement from students when they come to a seminar focused and ready to train hard. I hope we can apply that same exact mindset to our regular practice sessions! I look forward to having Kevin come visit us again soon!
Kungfu/Tai Chi Competitions
Competitions are great for those looking to challenge themselves. Personally, I always disliked competing itself, but I knew it made me better so I forced myself to compete annually.
Competitions offer several benefits. For example, they are good for short term goal setting, “I want to feel confident doing my entire XXX form by the competition date”. You can also get an idea of how your Kungfu skills compare to others from a 3rd party observer (judge). Also, its a great way to bond with your teammates. In addition, for some medals are motivating, and for others the fear of NOT getting a medal is motivating! For those of you interested in competing I wanted to get some upcoming competitions on your radar.
Please check with me to find out which one is right for you!
Sat Dec. 3 UMD. This tournament is one of the best one the east coast. High level competitors and well organized. This tournament is good for those who have competed before and are looking for a better stage to show case their talents! http://terpwushu.org/tournament/info.php
2017 5th annual Kungfu wushu tournament. This Tournament is good for those looking to get competition experience! The date is yet to be announced but its usually toward the end of Spring.
Festival of Nations
It was a huge honor to be asked to help promote the beauty of Chinese culture and perform on behalf of China at the Festival of Nations. The Chinese population is an incredibly important part of our local community and it is very meaningful that we can showcase this incredible culture for all to enjoy! I am very proud of The Chinese Martial Arts Academy and their ability to help demonstrate a very exciting element of Chinese culture. I am sure we will continue to improve and do better in the future!. We made it on to the front page of the Times Union and had several mentions on their online edition. Please enjoy the show!
In addition, CMAA will be continuing to refine our performance as we ramp up to this year’s Chinese New Year celebration. I hope to include more students into that performance so please stay tuned for details about that!
Check out CMAA's full demo here!
Student of the Month – Justin and Reagan Li
If you come to some of the earlier classes you’ve seen these two. One has just recently come in to his own. Years of focused training and some natural talent allow the older brother to jump so high he seems to float and then land with the lightness of a feather. His younger brother has also been working hard for a year now. Although he’s more focused on fun, when it’s time for in class competitions takes it very seriously and will always try his best. You may have guess it, this month’s Students of the Month are – Justin and Reagan Li!
Shifu: Why did you start Kungfu?
Justin: I started Kung fu 2 years ago and my little brother started 1 year ago
Shifu: What is your favorite thing about Kungfu?
Justin: My favorite thing to do in Kung fu is doing jumps and kicks and Reagan likes doing cartwheels.
Shifu: What is your favorite food?
Justin: My favorite food is sushi and my brother's is pizza.
Shifu: If someone wants to learn kungfu or has already started but wants to get better, what would you tell them?
Justin: I would tell them to just ask shifu and he'll just teach you step by step even if it takes his time away he'll still help you to improve.
Shifu: When you're not at CMAA what kinds of things you like to do outside of Kungfu?
Justin: I really like jumping so I'll to to the track and jump the hurdles or just try to touch the rim of a basketball hoop. My brother likes watching tv and eating food.(this is actually what he said).
Shifu: Anything else (advice, a joke, or personal information) you’d like to share with everyone?
Justin: One tip I'll like to add is try to go to Kung fu everyday. My brother says if Shifu says something you don't know then just say "OK".
Look forward to seeing you all soon. Keep up the great work!
Check out some of Justin's jumping skills!
CMAA Black Belt Max Bruni
I am incredibly proud to announce CMAA has a new black belt- Max Bruni. Since joining Max has proven to be one of the MOST consistent and hardest working martial artists I've had the honor of working with. Not only does he train almost every day, but he often stays for 2-3 classes in a row. Another martial arts instructor recently watched Max perform and commented on how impressed he was that Max clearly put his heart in to his form. In addition, the quality Max possesses that I am most inspired by his is willingness to help all his kungfu brothers and sisters. He takes his role as a senior student very seriously and works just as well with a new group of 4 year old white belts as he does with a demo team of black belts. He's an incredible young man, and I am so excited to see where he goes with on his martial arts journey!
Enjoy Max's Black Belt video!
Tai Chi Posture and Power
Though the presenter is obviously not a native English speaker, I feel he is able to clearly demonstrate some of the unique subtleties of Tai Chi posture and power as compared to what he calls “general power”.
Resources For Home Practice
When it comes to practicing Tai Chi, the easiest thing to do is just get to class. Once you’re in the car the hard part is over, you know you’ll get a dedicated training session in. We can go over questions, troubleshoot problems, discuss the nuances of the routines or simply review the forms. However, one of the best things you can do is practice at home throughout the week. At first Tai Chi may seem challenging, but in the end it all comes down to consistency. Here are some online resources to help newer practitioners with the forms we practice in class!
http://www.martialartsalbany.com/home-practice-tai-chi/
The Most Powerful Kungfu in the Universe
One of the greatest aspects of Chinese martial arts is that they go beyond physical techniques of punching and kicking, and really encourage a holistic approach to health and wellness transcending martial arts as a sports to martial arts as a lifestyle.
Happy Halloween From CMAA!
Good times with Bruce Lee, a witch, batman, some ninjas and princesses...
CMAA School CleaningPlease bring home ANY personal belongings by Thanksgiving 11/24! There are many unclaimed jackets, sweatshirts, shoes, swords, staffs and bottles. I will be removing all items from the school for either donation or the dump. Afterwards, you can bring back anything that you feel must be left at the school. Thank you for your assistance in helping to keep things organized!
CMAA Holiday Dinner Party
Great food, and better company: We are finalizing the details of our annual holiday dinner party and will have more information soon! Stay tuned for details.
Summary
As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!
From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, don’t miss out on the action!
School Closings
Kungfu Sash Test
USA National Kungfu Team member Kevin Qin’s Kungfu Seminars!
Ancient Chinese Tai Chi Manuscripts Translated
Inspirational Movement
Beautiful Tai ChiKungfu/Tai Chi Competitions
Resources For Home Practice
School Closings
Please note, there are no school closings this month. We will be open Columbus Day.
However, all Kungfu classes will be cancelled for Saturday, Oct. 22 for our special guest seminars by USA National Kungfu Team member Kevin Qin. Please see below for more information about which seminar is the best fit for you or your child!
Kungfu Sash Test
Please note that we will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, October 2nd, at 10:30 am.
If you are unsure whether or not you (or your child) are ready to test, please speak with me before or during class, via email at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or by phone (518) 755-7512.
Remember, you will not “get” your sash at CMAA – you will EARN it! There is a big difference. It’s important you (your child) learns the value of their sash- the value of hard work! Let’s stay focused and step up our training so we’re fully prepared for the test!
USA National Kungfu Team member Kevin Qin’s Kungfu Seminars!
CMAA is very proud to announce we will be hosting two seminars with USA National Kungfu Team member Kevin Qin. Kevin most recently earned bronze for the USA in the 2016 Pan-American Championships.
Date: Saturday, Oct. 22
Time: 11:15-12:30 Beginner/Intermediate. 12:30-2:00 Advanced.
More info here! http://www.martialartsalbany.com/kungfu-seminars/
Ancient Chinese Tai Chi Manuscripts Translated
What an incredible, FREE, online resource! With translations of texts dating from the 1600’s, 1700’s, 1800’s and early 1900’s, these texts can give us insight into the original teachings of the internal arts. Please visit, bookmark and frequent this website!https://brennantranslation.wordpress.com/
Inspirational Movement
Though its not a martial arts practice, these movements are certainly spectacular to observe. In addition, for those of us who practice, it’s easy to imagine how nice it would be to have such incredible mobility and strength. Hope this inspires you to continue strengthen your stances!
Although its a little less "exotic", here's an example of CMAA students training "wheels without steel"! I see a future CMAA Kids CrossFit class in the making!
Beautiful Tai Chi
In addition to being a pleasure to practice. Taiji is simply beautiful to watch. Please enjoy these two Tai Chi performances.
Kungfu/Tai Chi Competitions
Competitions are great for those looking to challenge themselves. Personally, I always disliked competing itself, but I knew it made me better so I forced myself to compete annually.
Competitions offer several benefits. For example, they are good for short term goal setting, "I want to feel confident doing my entire XXX form by the competition date". You can also get an idea of how your Kungfu skills compare to others from a 3rd party observer (judge). Also, its a great way to bond with your teammates. In addition, for some medals are motivating, and for others the fear of NOT getting a medal is motivating! For those of you interested in competing I wanted to get some upcoming competitions on your radar. Please check with me to find out which one is right for you!
Sat Dec. 3 UMD. This tournament is one of the best one the east coast. High level competitors and well organized. This tournament is good for those who have competed before and are looking for a better stage to show case their talents! http://terpwushu.org/tournament/info.php
2017 5th annual Kungfu wushu tournament This Tournament is good for those looking to get competition experience! The date is yet to be announced but its usually toward the end of Spring.
Resources For Home Practice
When it comes to practicing Tai Chi, the easiest thing to do is just get to class. Once you’re in the car the hard part is over, you know you’ll get a dedicated training session in. We can go over questions, troubleshoot problems, discuss the nuances of the routines or simply review the forms. However, one of the best things you can do is practice at home throughout the week. At first Tai Chi may seem challenging, but in the end it all comes down to consistency. Here are some online resources to help newer practitioners with the forms we practice in class!
http://www.martialartsalbany.com/home-practice-tai-chi/
Summary
As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!
Resources For Tai Chi Home Practice
When it comes to practicing Tai Chi, the easiest thing to do is just get to class. Once you’re in the car the hard part is over, you know you’ll get a dedicated training session in. We can go over questions, troubleshoot problems, discuss the nuisances of the routines or simply review the forms. However, one of the best things you can do is practice at home throughout the week. At first Tai Chi may seem challenging, but in the end it all comes down to consistency.
Home practice sessions are wonderful because you can focus on exactly what you want, for the amount of time you want. In addition, because you are alone, and independent in your practice, you will be forced to remain conscious. That means you can’t simply follow or otherwise zone out and hope no one noticed. You can practice without being selfconcious of onlookers and with increased awareness of your own form. You can make it a ten minute practice or an hour and ten minutes, it’s up to you.
For seasoned practicioers there is no shortage to the amount of routines you can practice. However, sometimes newer practicioners can run into a little difficulty practicing on their own simply because they may be unsure of exactly what to practice. Well, obviously it’s entirely up to you, but here are some short routines that we practice at the school that are convient for practicing at home.
I will break up the videos in to three parts Warm Up and Stretching, Qi Gong (Chi Kung) and Taiji (Tai Chi). See which form you recognize and start following along! Take a look at them and see which best suit your abilities and interests.
Warm Up
Here's a very gentle 15 minute seated relaxation and stretching routine. For those of you who do not prefer to sit on the floor and stretch, this video may give you some ideas for ways to stretch while seated in a chair.
Here's a good, standard standing Tai Chi warm up routine. You can follow this routine prior to practicing.
If you are looking for some additional stretches to improve hip function, and are OK with laying down, try some of these as well!
Tai Chi
Moving on to Tai Chi specifically, here are two videos you might find helpful. I recommend starting with the Yang 10 as it is the shortest and most concise. Of course you can practice longer forms, but if the goal is practicing on your own then the short forms will be easier to start with. As we become more familiar with the longer forms you are of course encouraged to practice those routines as well.
First- Here's a pictorial of the Yang 10. You can keep this on your phone for reference at any time.
For a video of the form please follow her:
Here is another clip. This one offer front and back views with narration.
Qi Gong (Chi Kung)
8 Sections Brocade (Ba Duan Jin)
Kungfu Seminars with USA National Kungfu Team Member Kevin Qin
Kevin Qin always had an interest for martial arts at a young age. He soon enrolled at the Omei Wushu Center to pursue his passion. Under the tutelage of Lu Xiaolin, he went on to compete and win titles at the regional and national level. In 2010, he qualified for the US National Jr. Wushu Team, and remained a member until 2014. In 2012, he competed at the 9th Pan American Wushu Championships in Mexico and brought home 2 silvers in the junior division. In 2016, he once again competed at the Pan American Championships, but with the senior division, and brought home a bronze medal in southern broadsword.
Kevin has also extensive coaching experience, teaching students of all ages since he was 16. He has also coached at the college level, and has choreographed performances and coached athletes for competition.
Seminars for all levels!
On Saturday October 22nd Kevin Qin will be teaching 2 seminars for different skill levels.
Students will practice basics stances, balances, and combinations that are most common in wushu forms. This class will focus on required compulsory movements in a competition form, what judges look for in them, and common deductions found in most competition.
Students will drill combinations, sections, and nandu (difficulty) techniques in their forms. This class will focus on more advanced concepts such as rhythm, pacing, and choreography in a competition form. Students will also practice nandu movements and learn the requirements and common deductions in the difficulty section of a form.
Kevin's competition footage from 4 years ago:
This is some more recent footage of Kevin competing:
