Chow Gar Praying Mantis
Traditional Kung Fu Kwoon
Tel: 01708 374499
info@themartialarts.org.uk
John Phillips is a member of the Register of Exercise Professionals
Here is an explanation of the different aspects of the training regime.
Forms:
Forms are set patterns of techniques that are used as a way of remembering the many different techniques within the system. Once a form is learnt you will be expected to break the form down and practice two or three different movements from the form thousands of times to make the techniques become more natural.
Strength Training:
This takes up much of the time in the lesson and is a vital aspect of the training. It is important that over time you build a strong body able to withstand blows. Exercises such as “Chy Sau” or grinding arm, is the first exercise you will learn. This is very basic but an extremely arduous exercise. You will also learn exercises which you can practice alone, as well as exercises which require a partner.
Weapons:
These are introduced at a more advanced stage of your training. You will learn the traditional weapons of the Praying Mantis Kung Fu system, such as the Pole, Butterfly Knives, Sword, Spear, as well as two man weapons forms.
Locking, Sparring and Pad Work Training:
Sparring will be introduced at an early stage in your training. It is important not to shy away from sparring in your training because it is only through this that you will learn where your weak points are. This will give you the opportunity to try your techniques and see what works best for you.
You will also learn how to apply a lock on an opponent, and how to overcome it from all different positions.
Tui Na and Dit Dar Medicine:
You will also learn the traditional medicine of the Chow Gar Praying Mantis System. You will often get bruised during your training and you must learn how to make Dit Dar Medicine which you can apply to your body to help prevent bruises.
You will also learn Tui Na Massage therapy.
