Monthly Newsletter - September 2016

Dear Friends, From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, don’t miss out on the action! School Closings Kungfu Sash Test Women’s Self Defense Chinese Community Center Tai Chi Club CMAA Black Belt 3 Amazing Wushu Spear Performances Words of Wisdom Black Belt Sleeper Student of the Month- Christian Luther Pre-Order your copy of “How to Pick Up Tons of Girls With Martial Arts”

School Closings

Please note CMAA will be closed Labor Day weekend Saturday through Monday (3rd-6th).

Women’s Self Defense CMAA just hosted another successful Women’s Self Defense Seminar.  If you are interested in organizing a group of friends, CMAA can help arranged a private group self-defense seminar!  Ask Shifu or Instructor Steve Juman for details.  While class time is primarily spent on learning the best strategies and techniques for self defense, what is a also an incredibly important simply is a prepared mindset geared toward situational awareness.  Read more here on how how to prevent the triangle of victimization from being completed: http://www.martialartsalbany.com/womens-self-defense-and-awareness/

Kungfu Sash Test

Please note that we will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, October 2nd, 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!

White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold: $75 Black:$100. CMAA Black Belt CMAA Black Belt. What does it mean to be a black belt? Objectively it means competency in our curriculum. Subjectively I expect every student to practice their Kungfu at what I perceive to be their true "best effort". Beyond that, I can't tell you what the experience and achievement means to each individual. That is for them to decide.

Personally, I can tell you Kungfu has given me everything. It has given my life purpose and meaning where I can help others become healthy and happy through martial arts. I have made friendships that will last a lifetime. I have inspired and been inspired by many who I have crossed paths with on this journey. I also learned some pretty cool flips and kicks along the way. All I can do is wonder with excitement where Kungfu will take these CMAA black belts.  Check out these video’s from CMAA Black Belts to see what their training has meant to them. http://www.martialartsalbany.com/cmaa-black-belt-hall-of-fame/

3 Amazing Wushu Spear Performances

Words of Wisdom I know we can become great martial artists through practice, but I believe we can also become great people through the practice of martial arts.

Black Belt Sleeper

Black Belt Sleeper:

Sleep is a force multiplier. That means that whatever you’re typically capable of on a day to day basis can be greatly optimized by simply improving sleep quality. From losing fat, and building muscle, to improved concentration and a greater overall sense of well being you need proper rest!

I have many suggestions to help you achieve better sleep. Of course you don’t have to do all these things, but the more the better. Try different things and see what works best for you! In addition, if you don’t sleep alone, consider what techniques might be of use to your spouse. If they’re tossing and turning, reading with the lights on, or watching TV (or mobile device!) while you’re sleeping (or preparing to), that may all effect your sleep quality, whether you realize it or not!

The primary elements can be divided into the following categories: Sleep Environment: Sight, Sound, Smell, Touch, Temperature. Sleep Routine: Nutrition: Supplements: What not to do: Waking up: Timing: Monitoring your sleep: Prescription Drug Sleep Aids:

Get all the details here:

http://www.martialartsalbany.com/black-belt-sleeper/

Student of the Month- Christian Luther

Christian is one cool kid.  He might be injured from a recent 4 wheeler accident, biking or whatever other extreme activity he’s doing, but that never seems to keep him down very long.  The following week he’s handspringing and doing dive rolls that usually keep me holding my breath until he safely rolls up to his feet.  Over the last few months he’s really solidified his advanced staff routine.  However, I’ve been even more impressed with effort to assist in leading the warm ups.  Actually, that is the responsibility of the high sash in class, but he always steps up and just does it.  I like that.  That’s what a leader does.  As one of CMAA’s very first Kids Kungfu student, I’ve seen Christian grow up a lot of the past few years.  He’s always been a quiet, hard worker.  It’s always been a pleasure to teach him.  Let’s get to know him a little better. 

Shifu: Why did you start Kungfu? Christian: Because my brother was interested and I thought I'd give it a try.

Shifu: What is your favorite thing about Kungfu? Christian: Getting a decent workout and hanging out with some cool kids.

Shifu: What is your favorite food? Christian: Cheeseburgers 

Shifu: If someone wants to learn kungfu or has already started but wants to get better, what would you tell them? Christian: Work hard and stay focused, give it your best.

Shifu: Besides Kungfu I know you're a pretty active kid, hence all the injuries you come to Kungfu with. Can you tell us more about the things you like to do outside of Kungfu? Christian: Riding my dirtbike, spending time with friends, videogames.

Shifu: How do you feel about moving and going off to school? What are you looking forward to about this new adventure? Christian: It will be a learning experience, I'll miss my friends and routine.

Well Christian, it’s been awesome having you be a part of our Kungfu family.  I hope you come back to visit us soon.  You’ve got the heart of a black belt I am confident that you will succeed in all that you do!

To see a clip of Christian's dive roll, check this out! https://www.instagram.com/p/BBGrtxiqv98/  

Chinese Community Center Tai Chi Club Chinese School- Taiji Club

The course would focus on the practice of Qigong, Tai Chi Basics (postures and footwork), as well as two simplified Tai Chi Routines (Yang 8/Yang 24). We will learn to learn how to relax, coordinate our breath and properly structure our posture. This class is suitable for individuals of all ages and abilities. No previous experience is required.

Find out about registration below! http://dreamschool.com/albany/node/3121

Pre-Order your copy of “How to Pick Up Tons of Girls With Martial Arts” “You might be able to break limbs, but soon you’ll be breaking hearts!” – Lucas Geller, author of “How to pick up tons of girls with Martial Arts”.  Pre-order today and received a signed copy! ;)

Summary  As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Black Belt Sleeper

Sleep Sleep is a force multiplier.  That means that whatever you’re typically capable of on a day to day basis can be greatly optimized by simply improving sleep quality.  From losing fat, and building muscle, to improved concentration and a greater overall sense of well being you need proper rest!

I have many suggestions to help you achieve better sleep.  Of course you don’t have to do all these things, but the more the better.  Try different things and see what works best for you!  In addition, if you don’t sleep alone, consider what techniques might be of use to your spouse.  If they’re tossing and turning, reading with the lights on, or watching TV (or mobile device!) while you’re sleeping (or preparing to), that may all effect your sleep quality, whether you realize it or not!

In general your aim should be 8 or so hours of quality sleep in a dark, quiet, cool, comfortable environment.

Sleep Environment:

Sight: Get Dark! Room darkening shades:  These will block out a majority of the light. Curtains.  They hit the corners that the shades miss. Eye Mask.  Try different ones. I like the padded silk, without Velcro in back variety. Dimmable bedside lamps (Tao Tronics). I like minimal brightness at night to decrease stimulation. You can also program them for reading, so in case you are the type to fall asleep reading, the light will turn off for you. Candle.  The light is sufficient to see in general but not overstimulating. If you read or your spouse reads- consider a clip on book light.  It will only light page (and maybe bother you or your spouse less!). Bathroom nightlight: I don't like turning on a light to use the bathroom. The nightlight isn't harsh but provides just enough light to hit the mark.  I like the blue tint kind, but feel free to use what you like.

Sound: White noise or no sound! White Noise.  I use a fan personally, but there are many other choices, noise machines, fish tank, wall unit AC/space heater. or Ear Plugs: I prefer white noise, but I wore earplugs for 2 years in college because my otherwise great roommate snored super loud.  The goal here is to prevent a noisy spouse/roommate from disturbing your rest.

Smell: Candle Essential Oils. I don't use them, but think it could serve the same purpose as the candle without the inherent risk of burning something while you're falling asleep. Smells might help you relax or like the rest of your routine, the conditioned response might help associate that smell with sleep.

Touch: Sheets: I prefer jersey knit.  It’s not fancy but it’s definitely most comfortable to me.  Know what you like best and stick to it. Mattress: In general we were taught that firmer is better.  However, it may actually depend you you- surprise, surprise!  Turns out that if you are generally flexed (hunched over) a firm mattress might support a neutral spine by assisting in promoting support and extension.  On the other hand, if you are more arched, you could actually benefit from a softer mattress.  Again, try both and see what’s best for you!  You don’t even need to actually get a new mattress.  You can add pads or boards to your current mattress to see if a harder or softer surface improves sleep quality or helps you wake up feeling better. Pillows: Again, make sure they’re as soft or as firm as you like and use the type of material that you feel is most comfortable.  I like one super flat, jersey knit pillow.  I roll the bottom of it just to support the arch in my neck.  You can also use pillows for props.  Stick one under your arm for a little relief from shoulder pain, stick one under your knees/butt for some low back relief.  If you sleep on your side, try putting a pillow between your knees to promote a better hip position.  In the long run, where you need your pillows will indicate what you can should be addressing in your strength and mobility training.  In the short term, do what you can to get the relief you need to sleep better. Temperature: Know what you sleep best in and keep it there! In general cooler seems to help people sleep better (68 deg.).  I keep it cool and the winter and between 72-74 degrees in the summer. If I wake up at night and if I feel hot I can get fixated on it and get a little restless.

Sleep Routine: This is the stuff can prepare your body for sleep, and much like Pavlovian Conditioning- condition your body for sleep. Hot Shower.  Some athletes talk about cold showers or contrasting showers, but personally I find a hot shower to be the most relaxing. Relaxing Music.  Feel free to put on some your sleep mix.  Just soothing music of nature sounds work best. Stretching.  You can stretch for as long or as short as you’d like. Massage.  I would also consider using some time of myofascial release techniques from foam rolling to tennis ball massage.  Sometimes massage can be more helpful than stretching in aiding in this relaxation process. Acupressure massage.  My wife Zoey does a 5 minute acupressure eye massage every night before bed.  She was taught to do in school in China during the stressful years of long, hard days of studying while preparing for the college entrance exam.  You can look online for books and videos or consult with a professional to learn on how people do acupressure massage on themselves. Write a list of things to do tomorrow.  This can help you feel less stressful and keep you from lying in bed thinking about what you need to remember to do the next day.  I typically do this while stretching. Exercises of gratitude.  Once I feel satisfied with my list of tasks for the following day.  I try to reflect on the things I am grateful for.  They may things experienced that day more general things about family, and work.  This helps in staying positive, and keeping stress levels down. Read before bed. I like to read Chinese. For me the books are entertaining but reading in Chinese is more difficult and makes me tired. When I read in English I seem to have more energy and spend more time reading than is helpful for getting to bed.  The point is, you have to find out what you enjoy reading while not getting too interested or excited that you actually end up getting less rest.  Find out what helps you sleep ;)

Nutrition: High Protein, High Fat meal before bed. (I usually eat late so this isn't relevant, but on weekends when I eat an earlier dinner, I may have a milk/protein/peanut butter smoothie) an hour or so before bed. The protein and fat help stave off any hunger or low blood sugar which might otherwise wake you up at night. Otherwise limit food and liquids before bedtime.

Supplements: 1 Cup Chamomile Tea, 1 Scoop of Glutamine (drinking liquids before bed depends on your bladder sensitivity, so be mindful of timing here). ZMA/ZMAG/Z-12 (etc): Honestly, tried it and didn't sleep any differently. But it's worth a try.

What not to do: Turn off electronics at least 1/2 hour before bed (if not earlier). It can wait until tomorrow! Switch phone to Night Shift (red light instead of blue) Keep your bed a place for SLEEPING (and possibly one other activity) and nothing else. If you can't sleep, don't lay in bed. Your bed should be so associated with sleep than even if you weren't tired, you bed would put you to sleep like Pavlovian conditioning. No caffeine (7 hours before sleeping, just a personal rule) No alcohol (2 hours before sleeping, just a personal rule) Find out how caffeine and alcohol affect you and change as needed. No late naps! I nap but not within 7 hours of when I'm going to bed. I know it's tempting for couples to lay in bed and talk but our rule is not to talk about work or "major issues" before bed, as we end up staying up later and getting anxious before bed.

Waking up: Best to wake up naturally Best to gradually introduce light (natural when possible) If you need an alarm I recommend a gentle/soothing alarm that wakes you up but not too harshly!

Timing: Not all hours are equal.  I once read you can count hours before 12am as double because their “healthier” hours.  I don’t know the science behind it but I do believe that sleeping from 10pm-6am is healthier than sleeping from 3am-11am.  In general getting to sleep earlier means getting more sleep in which case it’s just better either way.

Monitoring your sleep: Ask your spouse.  They can probably tell you quite a bit about how good of a sleeper you are.  From the number of times you get up, to snoring, sleep apnea, or grinding your teeth, your partner might have some interesting insight. Smart phone sleep/sound app.  These apps will record the sound at night and can help clarify just how much action happens after lights out.  Again, aside from conversations or number of times you get out of bed, you might also hear snoring or sleep apnea. Sleep Tracker/Activity monitor.  This too can give you a more visual representation of how you’re sleeping.  How much you toss and turn to how many steps you take when you should be sleeping.

Prescription Drug Sleep Aids I don’t know about these.  My understanding is that they do not promote true sleep architecture but rather being unconscious which is not the same thing.  I would personally not consider using any perscription sleep aids until I’d exhausted all the other more holistic options.  Please consult with your doctor should you feel the need to explore this as an option.

Napping: I try to apply as many of the above conditions to napping as well.  The only real difference is sleep duration.  I usually sleep about 10-20 minutes between 2:30-3:15 Mon-Fri.  

Monthly Newsletter - August 2016

Dear Friends,From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, don’t miss out on the action!

School Closings Kungfu Sash Test Recap DK Yoo Taiji and Qigong Train Your Monkey Mind: Meditation 3 Incredible Long Fist Kungfu Performances Tai Chi at Community Care Physicians and Chinese Community Center

School Closings Please note CMAA will be closed for one week of Summer Break beginning Friday July 29th –Thursday Aug. 4th. We will resume our regular schedule Friday, August 5th!

Sash Test Great job you guys. It was great to see so many students making progress at various levels. New students like Justin and Austin working hard to earn their very first belts. Eddie, Maci, Sam and Kaley all back on track after some time away from training. As one of my very first students, and generally a weekend warrior, it was also very special to see Alex continue to make meaningful progress and excel in spear!

A special congratulations to Zackary Diehl on officially receiving his Black Belt! Zack, was one of my very first students over 5 years ago from the Chinese Community Center. I immediately recognized his quiet focus and athleticism. I asked his parents to let me teach him. I continued to offer them discounts until finally I said “Please give me a chance, I will teach him for free for one year.” Well, that year went fast. Zack has shone as a highlight in CMAA’s martial arts performances every year since. Zack has matured in to truly impressive martial artist with sharp basics, super agile jump kicks, and attention to detail. I look forward to starting his new weapon- Pudao, the “Horse Cutter Halberd” and seeing just how far into mastery he’ll take his training! I am very proud of you, Zack!

DK Yoo Taiji and Qigong

I saw videos about DK Yoo several months ago. The more time I spend on his channel, the more I enjoy watching his movements. I don’t think hitting fully cooperating, non-resisting, “opponents” demonstrates any ability to deal with physical conflict in real life. However, his movement is definitely unique and offers insight into various aspects of martial arts training specifically posture, and the release of energy. Please click here to see several more of his videos that high light Tai Chi, and Qigong! http://www.martialartsalbany.com/?p=2081

Train Your Monkey Mind: Meditation  Mingyur Rinpoche teaches us how to meditate any time, anywhere. Actually, he’s not saying anything new really but his quintessential Buddhist monk delivery is on point. Enjoy!

3 Incredible Long Fist Kungfu Performances Please enjoy these three incredible performances. From grace and athleticism to martial prowess and artistry, martial artists have it all! Which is your favorite?

Tai Chi at Community Care Physicians and Chinese Community Center I am proud to announce that a new Tai Chi class will now be available onsite for WeCare patients at Community Care Physicians.  This is an exciting new initiative and I am very excited to see the medical community interested in and encouraging their patients to explore this time tested traditional art of health and wellness!

In addition, with the success of our martial arts program at the Chinese Community Center Chinese School, we will now offer a class every week on Qigong and Tai Chi fundamentals.  I hope we can help as many people discover the wonders of traditional Chinese fighting and healing arts!  I couldn't  be more proud of CMAA for continuing it's outreach and bringing the highest quality of our art to the local community, just as Shifu, Lu and so many senior students have done for so long!

Summary  As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Amazing Martial Artist DK Yoo

DK Yoo Taiji and Qigong

I saw videos about DK Yoo several months ago.  The more time I spend on his channel, the more I enjoy watching his movements.  I don’t think hitting fully cooperating, non-resisting, “opponents” demonstrates any ability to deal with physical conflict in real life.  However, his movement is definitely unique and offers insight into various aspects of martial arts training specifically posture, and the release of energy.  Please check out some more of his videos that highlight Tai Chi, and Qigong!

Monthly Newsletter - July 2016

Dear Friends, From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, don’t miss out on the action! School Closings Kungfu Sash Test 4th Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition Recap Qigong Grandmaster Li Jun Feng Seminar Recap CMAA Black Belt Brandon Liu 1986 Taiji Gathering – Masters Demonstration Mind Full or Mindful?  Connecting Mindfulness and Tai Chi 

School Closings Please note that CMAA will be closed Monday July 4th.

In addition, CMAA will be closed for one week of Summer Break from Friday July 29th –Thursday Aug. 4th.

We are OPEN Saturday July, 2nd (July 4th Weekend!)

Sash Test Please note that we will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, July 17th, 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! White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold/Black: $75

4th Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition Recap Congratulations to the competitors who represented CMAA this weekend in Hadley, MA. We were awarded "Best Kungfu School 2016"! I hope we can organize more students to participate next year to defend the title! Thank you to Shifu Binh Nguyen for putting together such a great event. It may be smaller than some of the other tournaments we've participated in, but I have heard more positive feedback about the organization, and overall positive spirit/atmosphere of this event than any other.

Qigong Grandmaster Li Jun Feng Seminar Recap Where do I begin? What an amazing evening. I had been worried about Master Li’s plane arriving as scheduled. I wasn’t fully sure what to expect from a style, or an approach, to Qigong that I haven’t personally practiced. However, I couldn’t have been more pleased with the entire event. Master Li spoke of practicing love and happiness, and projecting that love out to the universe. Over the course of the three hours, it became clear that he not only talked the talk, but walked the walk… To read more about the event and get links to videos of Master Li in action, links to the Sheng Zhen Qigong website, and the Eastover Estate website, please visit: http://www.martialartsalbany.com/master-li-jun-feng-seminar-recap/ 

CMAA Black Belt Brandon Liu Congratulations to CMAA Black Belt Brandon Liu. You are the 2nd student to receive their black belt through our program and you have done it in record time (only 2.5 years). You are a prodigy, but you have succeeded because you have combined your natural talent with focus and hard work. CMAA will be sad to see you moving to Michigan this summer, but we are proud of you and all you have accomplished! Can't wait to see where you go and all the greatness you will achieve!

Looking back exactly one year ago I discovered that Brandon “the Ninja” Liu was student of the month. To time travel back one year, read that interview and see what else was happening then check out the newsletter from July 2015, here: http://www.martialartsalbany.com/monthly-newsletter-july/ 1986 Taiji Gathering – Masters Demonstration Here is an interesting old video jewel. The Masters Demonstration at a Taijiquan Gathering in China dated in 1986. Footage includes Wu Tunan (Wu Style), Chen Xiaowang (Chen Style), Yang Zhenduo (Yang Style), Wu Yinghua (Wu Style), Yao Jizu (Wu(Hao) Style), Sun Jiayun (Sun Style), Gu Liuxin (Yang Style TJQ), Li Tianji (88 Set simplified taijiquan), Sha Guozheng (2-man Taijiquan Set), Fu Zhongwen (Yang Style Saber) and MaYueliang (Wu Style Sword).

Mind Full or Mindful?  Connecting Mindfulness and Tai Chi 

It is extremely difficult to bridge the gap between actually doing the tai chi form and improving your meditative-mindful state.  On one hand, doing the form feels good and we definitely feel better afterwards.  But how do we answer the questions from students, classmates, and ourselves such as: What should I be thinking about when I do the form? Does your mind race? Are you concentrating on something?

I will admit to you dear reader that I have historically been at a loss for providing a concise response that was satisfying.  But I found a really solid answer.  I was reading on Mindfulness and forgot I was reading on Mindfulness because I read this: http://taichibasics.com/connecting-mindfulness-tai-chi/ 

Summary As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Master Li Jun Feng Seminar Recap

Master Li Jun Feng Seminar Recap

Where do I begin?  What an amazing evening.  I had been worried about Master Li’s plane arriving as scheduled.  I wasn’t fully sure what to expect from a style, or an approach, to Qigong that I haven’t personally practiced.  However, I couldn’t have been more pleased with the entire event.

Master Li spoke of practicing love and happiness, and projecting that love out to the universe.  Over the course of the three hours, it became clear that he not only talked the talk, but walked the walk.  He presented with thoughtfulness and enthusiasm.  The best part has been having so many people approach me afterward to say how much they enjoyed it.  I love it because I know that we all pursue Taiji and Qigong with different outlooks and purposes, but we're connected by a true positive energy.  I feel so fortunate to be surrounded by such wonderful people.

When it was time to work with the Kungfu group, Master Li changed modes.  As the coach of the Chinese national Wushu team, he’s seen it all at the highest levels of martial arts mastery.  When it was time to watch our young team of enthusiastic practitioners, he gave each student his full and undivided attention.  He made observations about what each student did well and gave both big picture and small detail corrections that each could use on their journey to mastery.

Thank you Master Li for your direction and thank you Master Jiang for organizing this wonderful opportunity.

 

Master Li Jun Feng : Sheng Zhen Qi Gong

Sheng Zhen Gong is a method of self-healing, often referred to as “the qigong of Unconditional Love.” It involves a series of moving and non-moving forms, all designed to remove negative energy or “qi” and gather positive healing energy. The movements and contemplations of Sheng Zhen Gong help re-create that deep sense of inner peace we experienced as small children. As the body softens, and negative emotions are released, one experiences a feeling of perfect harmony with the universe.

Sheng Zhen Gong has three functions. It strengthens the body, calms the mind by removing negative emotions, and opens the heart. With regular practice, one experiences a renewed sense of joy and purpose, a deeper understanding of life, and more compassion for oneself and others.

For more information about Master Li Jun Feng and Sheng Zhen Qigong, please visit: http://shengzhen.org/ 

Check out the videos below to see Master Li Jun Feng in action! Some of Master Li's Bagua Zhang from the move "Wu Lin Zhi" (AKA "Deadly Fury" 1983).

Master Li can be seen here coaching the Beijing Wushu Team (with Jet Li) at the 0:50 mark.

Eastover Estate and Retreat

For More Information about Eastover Estate and Retreat please visit: http://www.eastover.com/ 

Monthly Newsletter - June 2016

Dear Friends, From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, don’t miss out on the action!

School Closings Sash Test Recap 4th Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition Qigong Grandmaster Li Jun Feng Seminar Pursuit of Champions: Wushu Human Movement Black Belt Zhuang Zi : The Archers Need to Win USA Wushu Team Athlete in Moscow Live to Move, Move to Live.

School Closings All classes will be held as regularly scheduled for June.

Sash Test Please note that we will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, July 17th, 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! White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold/Black: $75

4th Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition: June18th If you are interested in competing, this is a great opportunity. CMAA will be organizing a competition team to participate in the 4th Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition. Yellow sashes and above are encouraged to compete. Everyone is welcome to come and support your team! As a smaller tournament with simple organization, this competition has been a good venue for new competitors. Just like sash tests, the true value of competition is still self-improvement. All the fun and team bonding is just a nice extra! Online Registration here :https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1UuPl3A43Iy3FKKOSlouTAJfhWWZUCQLb-0Z54kpdDUU/viewform

Date: Saturday, June 18th. Competition begins at 10am sharp. Location: Hopkins Academy High School Gymnasium. (1.5-2 hours from Albany,

Qigong Grandmaster L Jun Feng Seminar

Wushu Legend (Beijing Wushu Team Coach/China National Wushu Team Coach) and Qigong Master Li Jun Feng will be coming to CMAA for a Sheng Zhen Unconditional Love Qigong seminar.

For more info please go here: http://www.martialartsalbany.com/seminar-with-qigong-master-li-jun-feng/

Pursiut of Champions: Wushu Yong Yi Xiang

Meet Singapore National Wushu Team Athlete Yong Yi Xiang.

What is it that drives the best of us to go beyond our comfort zones and physical limits? Check out this episode of Pursuit of Champions to see what it’s like to train as a serious Wushu practitioner. Check out the video here: https://youtu.be/nj-LjrwkylU

Human Movement Black Belt: It might not be Kungfu or even martial arts, but I think this young man certainly has a black belt in human movement. Enjoy!

Zhuangzi: The Archers Need to Win Remember to enjoy the process :)  

USA Wushu Team Athlete in Moscow Journey In Moscow: Training With The Russian Wushu Team, By Gordon Tsai Read about the strategies and training techniques that make the Russian Wushu Team one of the strongest teams internationally.

“When I first decided to go to Russia, I had a lot of friends and family show concern. To the typical American, Russia is a supposedly scary, unfriendly, and dangerous place. In my time there, I’ve continually surprised by the courtesy, care, and generosity of both the coaches and athletes.” Read more here!

https://medium.com/@Gordon.Tsai/journey-in-moscow-training-with-the-russian-wushu-team-7d7bd3943845#.gb7axahv7

Live to Move, Move to Live Throughout the month several videos showed up in my newsfeed online. These individuals may be the outliers but they sure are an inspiration. I believe more of us should be challenging the norm and staying active well into our senior years!

83 YO Boxer

81 YO Strongman

77 YO Female Bodybuilder

67 YO Parkour Runner

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

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