The Second Year of Education in Kung Fu School: Mastering the Fundamentals and Embracing New Challenges
10.09.2024
The second year of your Kung Fu education marks a pivotal stage in your journey. By now, your foundational skills are taking shape, giving you the confidence to realize that you have already learned something significant. However, true mastery requires more than just familiarity; it demands relentless practice and an unwavering commitment to quality. This year, you will be tasked with revisiting the 13 basic movements from your first year, committing to thousands of additional repetitions to refine your technique. Precision and consistency are key, and it takes dedication to perfect each movement.
Our Kung Fu school does not follow a sash or belt system, so we do not award belts during training. However, understanding your level and progress on your journey to mastery is crucial. To help you track your development, we introduce you to The Kung Fu Sash Order:
First 6 Months - Mastering the Fundamentals - Gold Sash "belt"
Next 6 Months - Embracing New Challenges - Green Sash "belt"
This year, the intensity increases. You will incorporate more bodyweight exercises into your routine, enhancing your physical conditioning and overall strength. It's not enough to perform these exercises; you will need to understand them deeply and be able to explain your techniques back to your teacher, demonstrating not just physical ability but also a grasp of the principles behind each movement.
As part of your second-year curriculum, you'll delve into your first Kung Fu style: Tiger. You'll learn the foundational movements and concepts of this style, embodying the strength, agility, and strategic thinking that characterize it. Alongside this, you'll begin training with your second weapon, the Dao (Chinese broadsword). This involves not just the physical practice of wielding the weapon but also learning its history and philosophy, understanding the deeper significance behind each movement.
A new area of focus will be "Qin Na"—the art of joint locks, grappling, and escapes. This practice will challenge your flexibility, particularly in your wrists and joints, as you learn to control opponents and escape holds with precision and skill.
Breathwork continues to play a crucial role in your training. You will advance your practice of the "Ba Dean Tzin" Qi Gong routine, moving into a more refined and rigorous second level. This advanced level emphasizes slower pacing, more repetitions, and a deeper comprehension of each detail, fortifying your breath control and internal strength. Additionally, you will begin training in "Hard Qi Gong," also known as the "5 Shaolin Stars." This practice is designed to make your body more resilient, building toughness and endurance that will serve you well in future martial arts encounters.
A unique aspect of your second-year training is the "Iron Shirt" routine, where you will condition your body to withstand impact. Under the supervision of your master, you will gradually learn to endure and manage pain through this specialized practice, preparing your body to handle the physical demands of martial arts sparring and partner work.
The second year of your Kung Fu education is a period of immense growth and learning. Your knowledge and skills are expected to double compared to your first year, and it is a time to be more disciplined and precise than ever. By closely following your master's commands and committing to your training, you will minimize the risk of injury and maximize your progress. Embrace this year with patience, perseverance, and an open mind, and you will continue to build a strong foundation for your lifelong journey in martial arts.
There is a list of basic Kung Fu movements that you can expect your Master to teach you in your second year of practice:
1.Kung Fu Straight Kick Aimed at the Shin Level
A straight kick aimed at the shin level serves as an effective distraction and an impactful initial move in a combat situation. By targeting the lower leg, this kick not only disrupts the opponent's balance but also inflicts significant pain, which can be pivotal in gaining the upper hand. The sudden, sharp pain from a well-executed shin kick can momentarily divert the enemy's focus, creating an opening for follow-up attacks or tactical maneuvers. This kick is particularly useful for breaking the opponent's rhythm and destabilizing their stance, providing a strategic advantage early in the engagement. As a core technique in Kung Fu, practicing this kick helps develop precision, power, and timing, essential elements in mastering the martial art. Proper technique is crucial when delivering a shin-level kick to avoid injury and maximize effectiveness. To protect the toes and ensure a solid impact, it's important to angle the foot slightly outward during the kick. This positioning helps to distribute the force more evenly and prevents direct contact with the toes, reducing the risk of self-injury. Additionally, focusing on targeting the opponent's shin with precision and power can amplify the kick's impact, making it a valuable tool for both offense and distraction in close-quarters combat. Practicing this movement within the context of Kung Fu not only enhances your combat skills but also reinforces the fundamental principles of balance, alignment, and control.
2. The Side Kick. Considered as the strongest and the longest one and that why most martial artists love to practice it. You may aim your target @* on a different level and combine side kick with other techniques together. That kick is even stronger if you run towards your target, jump and side kick - not many can stand the ground and block it without moving out from it. In Kung Fu Side Kick is performed by turning the body sideways with the hip turned slightly over. Chamber the kicking leg diagonally across the body, then extend the leg in a linear fashion toward the target.
3. The Back Fist Strike in Kung Fu is a versatile and powerful offensive technique characterized by a whipping motion of the arm, with the fist contracting only at the end of the strike. This movement is executed with the arm moving forward like a whip, while the body shifts in the opposite direction, maximizing the strike's force and speed. The primary targets are the temple and chin, but it can also be directed at the opponent's arms, lower ribs, or even legs, depending on the situation. The flexibility of the Back Fist Strike makes it highly effective; it can be used as an opening attack, a finishing blow, or seamlessly integrated into the middle of a combination. Its unpredictability and speed make it a valuable tool in any martial artist’s arsenal, especially when combined with other techniques to create a fluid and dynamic offense.
4. The Kung Fu long uppercut is a powerful and versatile technique, distinguished by its greater reach and force compared to a standard uppercut. This technique involves extending the arm more fully and raising it higher, which enhances its impact but requires a bit more time to execute. Due to its slower delivery, it is generally not ideal for initiating attacks. However, when combined with a series of quicker punches, it becomes an exceptionally effective tool, making it nearly impossible for opponents to block. To maximize its effectiveness and ensure personal safety, it is advisable to use the long uppercut strategically by closing the distance or creating opportunities to dodge, thus leveraging its power while minimizing vulnerability.
5. The horizontal hammer is a powerful Kung Fu technique characterized by its use of the bottom of the fist to deliver a strong, impactful strike. This movement can target various areas, including the head, body, or upper part of the leg. Typically executed with the elbow bent, the horizontal hammer maximizes force and effectiveness. In some variations, the fist may be transformed into an open hand, allowing the side of the palm to be used for striking. This technique is generally recommended as a follow-up move, often utilized as the second or third strike in a combination to enhance its effectiveness and impact, rather than being employed as the initial attack.
6. The Forearm Upper Block is a defensive Kung Fu technique designed to protect the upper body, particularly guarding the face from straight punches and shielding the forehead and shoulders from hammer strikes. This movement is performed by raising the forearm in a quick, upward motion, effectively creating a barrier against incoming attacks. Beyond its defensive capabilities, the Forearm Upper Block can also be utilized offensively; with a solid understanding of the basics, it can transform into a powerful strike targeting the opponent's head using the forearm's robust structure. Additionally, this movement can be adapted to deliver a pushing force, a technique commonly seen in Tai Chi styles, to destabilize or create distance from the opponent. Its dual functionality as both a shield and a weapon makes the Forearm Upper Block an essential skill for any martial artist seeking versatility in both defense and offense.
7. The Intermediate Wrist Block is a versatile defensive technique primarily used to protect the center of the body, especially vital areas like the solar plexus. This movement is a cornerstone in Praying Mantis Kung Fu, where it is regarded as one of the priority techniques due to its effectiveness and adaptability. The Intermediate Wrist Block is highly effective against a wide range of attacks, and its greatest strength lies in its ability to seamlessly transition into control and manipulation techniques, making it a formidable tool in both defense and offense. It can be used to neutralize an opponent’s arms, legs, or even their neck, providing a dynamic response to various threats. Additionally, the block can be transformed into a powerful offensive move by driving the wrist downwards, allowing for strikes from multiple angles and levels. Praying Mantis Kung Fu, considered one of the top strongest styles in China, showcases this technique as a fundamental part of its repertoire, emphasizing fluidity, control, and precision in combat.
8. The Kung Fu Snap Kick is a swift and precise technique that typically follows a straight trajectory, aiming for low or mid-level targets like the groin, chin, or even the opponent's arms. This kick is highly versatile, serving not only as a direct attack but also as a diversion or distraction when combined with other martial arts techniques, creating opportunities for follow-up strikes. When executing the Snap Kick, it's essential to extend the toes forward, utilizing the upper part of the foot for impact. At more advanced levels, practitioners can refine the technique further by striking with the toes or the ball of the foot, adding greater precision and force. The Snap Kick’s speed and adaptability make it an effective weapon in close-range combat, allowing practitioners to disrupt their opponent's rhythm and maintain control of the fight.
9. In Kung Fu, mastering basic front choke, along with the escapes, is essential for self-defense. These techniques teach you how to correctly position your arms around the opponent’s neck to apply effective pressure, aiming to disrupt their blood flow and breathing. As part of the training, you will also learn several escape methods to free yourself from being choked, ensuring you can respond swiftly and effectively in a real situation. Understanding the basic principles of body mechanics, such as the role of arteries and how blood flow to the brain is affected during a choke, is crucial. Additionally, you’ll be introduced to key pressure points that cause pain and discomfort, enhancing both your defensive and offensive capabilities. This comprehensive approach not only emphasizes practical application but also deepens your knowledge of the body’s vulnerabilities, providing a well-rounded skill set in Kung Fu combat techniques.
Our Kung Fu school does not follow a sash or belt system, so we do not award belts during training. However, understanding your level and progress on your journey to mastery is crucial. To help you track your development, we introduce you to The Kung Fu Sash Order:
First 6 Months - Mastering the Fundamentals - Gold Sash "belt"
Next 6 Months - Embracing New Challenges - Green Sash "belt"
This year, the intensity increases. You will incorporate more bodyweight exercises into your routine, enhancing your physical conditioning and overall strength. It's not enough to perform these exercises; you will need to understand them deeply and be able to explain your techniques back to your teacher, demonstrating not just physical ability but also a grasp of the principles behind each movement.
As part of your second-year curriculum, you'll delve into your first Kung Fu style: Tiger. You'll learn the foundational movements and concepts of this style, embodying the strength, agility, and strategic thinking that characterize it. Alongside this, you'll begin training with your second weapon, the Dao (Chinese broadsword). This involves not just the physical practice of wielding the weapon but also learning its history and philosophy, understanding the deeper significance behind each movement.
A new area of focus will be "Qin Na"—the art of joint locks, grappling, and escapes. This practice will challenge your flexibility, particularly in your wrists and joints, as you learn to control opponents and escape holds with precision and skill.
Breathwork continues to play a crucial role in your training. You will advance your practice of the "Ba Dean Tzin" Qi Gong routine, moving into a more refined and rigorous second level. This advanced level emphasizes slower pacing, more repetitions, and a deeper comprehension of each detail, fortifying your breath control and internal strength. Additionally, you will begin training in "Hard Qi Gong," also known as the "5 Shaolin Stars." This practice is designed to make your body more resilient, building toughness and endurance that will serve you well in future martial arts encounters.
A unique aspect of your second-year training is the "Iron Shirt" routine, where you will condition your body to withstand impact. Under the supervision of your master, you will gradually learn to endure and manage pain through this specialized practice, preparing your body to handle the physical demands of martial arts sparring and partner work.
The second year of your Kung Fu education is a period of immense growth and learning. Your knowledge and skills are expected to double compared to your first year, and it is a time to be more disciplined and precise than ever. By closely following your master's commands and committing to your training, you will minimize the risk of injury and maximize your progress. Embrace this year with patience, perseverance, and an open mind, and you will continue to build a strong foundation for your lifelong journey in martial arts.
There is a list of basic Kung Fu movements that you can expect your Master to teach you in your second year of practice:
1.Kung Fu Straight Kick Aimed at the Shin Level
A straight kick aimed at the shin level serves as an effective distraction and an impactful initial move in a combat situation. By targeting the lower leg, this kick not only disrupts the opponent's balance but also inflicts significant pain, which can be pivotal in gaining the upper hand. The sudden, sharp pain from a well-executed shin kick can momentarily divert the enemy's focus, creating an opening for follow-up attacks or tactical maneuvers. This kick is particularly useful for breaking the opponent's rhythm and destabilizing their stance, providing a strategic advantage early in the engagement. As a core technique in Kung Fu, practicing this kick helps develop precision, power, and timing, essential elements in mastering the martial art. Proper technique is crucial when delivering a shin-level kick to avoid injury and maximize effectiveness. To protect the toes and ensure a solid impact, it's important to angle the foot slightly outward during the kick. This positioning helps to distribute the force more evenly and prevents direct contact with the toes, reducing the risk of self-injury. Additionally, focusing on targeting the opponent's shin with precision and power can amplify the kick's impact, making it a valuable tool for both offense and distraction in close-quarters combat. Practicing this movement within the context of Kung Fu not only enhances your combat skills but also reinforces the fundamental principles of balance, alignment, and control.
2. The Side Kick. Considered as the strongest and the longest one and that why most martial artists love to practice it. You may aim your target @* on a different level and combine side kick with other techniques together. That kick is even stronger if you run towards your target, jump and side kick - not many can stand the ground and block it without moving out from it. In Kung Fu Side Kick is performed by turning the body sideways with the hip turned slightly over. Chamber the kicking leg diagonally across the body, then extend the leg in a linear fashion toward the target.
3. The Back Fist Strike in Kung Fu is a versatile and powerful offensive technique characterized by a whipping motion of the arm, with the fist contracting only at the end of the strike. This movement is executed with the arm moving forward like a whip, while the body shifts in the opposite direction, maximizing the strike's force and speed. The primary targets are the temple and chin, but it can also be directed at the opponent's arms, lower ribs, or even legs, depending on the situation. The flexibility of the Back Fist Strike makes it highly effective; it can be used as an opening attack, a finishing blow, or seamlessly integrated into the middle of a combination. Its unpredictability and speed make it a valuable tool in any martial artist’s arsenal, especially when combined with other techniques to create a fluid and dynamic offense.
4. The Kung Fu long uppercut is a powerful and versatile technique, distinguished by its greater reach and force compared to a standard uppercut. This technique involves extending the arm more fully and raising it higher, which enhances its impact but requires a bit more time to execute. Due to its slower delivery, it is generally not ideal for initiating attacks. However, when combined with a series of quicker punches, it becomes an exceptionally effective tool, making it nearly impossible for opponents to block. To maximize its effectiveness and ensure personal safety, it is advisable to use the long uppercut strategically by closing the distance or creating opportunities to dodge, thus leveraging its power while minimizing vulnerability.
5. The horizontal hammer is a powerful Kung Fu technique characterized by its use of the bottom of the fist to deliver a strong, impactful strike. This movement can target various areas, including the head, body, or upper part of the leg. Typically executed with the elbow bent, the horizontal hammer maximizes force and effectiveness. In some variations, the fist may be transformed into an open hand, allowing the side of the palm to be used for striking. This technique is generally recommended as a follow-up move, often utilized as the second or third strike in a combination to enhance its effectiveness and impact, rather than being employed as the initial attack.
6. The Forearm Upper Block is a defensive Kung Fu technique designed to protect the upper body, particularly guarding the face from straight punches and shielding the forehead and shoulders from hammer strikes. This movement is performed by raising the forearm in a quick, upward motion, effectively creating a barrier against incoming attacks. Beyond its defensive capabilities, the Forearm Upper Block can also be utilized offensively; with a solid understanding of the basics, it can transform into a powerful strike targeting the opponent's head using the forearm's robust structure. Additionally, this movement can be adapted to deliver a pushing force, a technique commonly seen in Tai Chi styles, to destabilize or create distance from the opponent. Its dual functionality as both a shield and a weapon makes the Forearm Upper Block an essential skill for any martial artist seeking versatility in both defense and offense.
7. The Intermediate Wrist Block is a versatile defensive technique primarily used to protect the center of the body, especially vital areas like the solar plexus. This movement is a cornerstone in Praying Mantis Kung Fu, where it is regarded as one of the priority techniques due to its effectiveness and adaptability. The Intermediate Wrist Block is highly effective against a wide range of attacks, and its greatest strength lies in its ability to seamlessly transition into control and manipulation techniques, making it a formidable tool in both defense and offense. It can be used to neutralize an opponent’s arms, legs, or even their neck, providing a dynamic response to various threats. Additionally, the block can be transformed into a powerful offensive move by driving the wrist downwards, allowing for strikes from multiple angles and levels. Praying Mantis Kung Fu, considered one of the top strongest styles in China, showcases this technique as a fundamental part of its repertoire, emphasizing fluidity, control, and precision in combat.
8. The Kung Fu Snap Kick is a swift and precise technique that typically follows a straight trajectory, aiming for low or mid-level targets like the groin, chin, or even the opponent's arms. This kick is highly versatile, serving not only as a direct attack but also as a diversion or distraction when combined with other martial arts techniques, creating opportunities for follow-up strikes. When executing the Snap Kick, it's essential to extend the toes forward, utilizing the upper part of the foot for impact. At more advanced levels, practitioners can refine the technique further by striking with the toes or the ball of the foot, adding greater precision and force. The Snap Kick’s speed and adaptability make it an effective weapon in close-range combat, allowing practitioners to disrupt their opponent's rhythm and maintain control of the fight.
9. In Kung Fu, mastering basic front choke, along with the escapes, is essential for self-defense. These techniques teach you how to correctly position your arms around the opponent’s neck to apply effective pressure, aiming to disrupt their blood flow and breathing. As part of the training, you will also learn several escape methods to free yourself from being choked, ensuring you can respond swiftly and effectively in a real situation. Understanding the basic principles of body mechanics, such as the role of arteries and how blood flow to the brain is affected during a choke, is crucial. Additionally, you’ll be introduced to key pressure points that cause pain and discomfort, enhancing both your defensive and offensive capabilities. This comprehensive approach not only emphasizes practical application but also deepens your knowledge of the body’s vulnerabilities, providing a well-rounded skill set in Kung Fu combat techniques.
In your second year of Kung Fu training, you'll move beyond mastering individual movements and start integrating them into dynamic combinations. This phase is essential for refining your coordination, balance, and seamless transitions between techniques. Combining movements challenges your cardio endurance, sharpens your focus on correct breathing patterns, and elevates the quality of each technique. By practicing these combinations, you'll learn to synchronize multiple skills, building a strong and adaptable foundation for tackling more advanced and complex martial arts techniques in the future.
- This combination, conclude 3 stances: “ neutral, back stance and front stance”. Plus 3 different martial art movements. Two movements from same side - upper block and straight punch, then cross punch via the other side.
Kung fu has existed in China for at least five thousand years. Only things that are truly essential for mankind can survive for this long.
FAQ: Please click on the links below to watch the short video answers.
What's the point of practicing basic technique?
How this Kung Fu basic technique is going to work in the real situation?
Grand Master Kung Fu Valery Prosvirov explained just by demonstrating the quality and power of Martial Arts Technique...
REVIEWS
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Sergei Volodkin
I’ve had the privilege of studying Kung Fu with Master Dmitry for a considerable time, and his teaching approach stands out for its depth and clarity. His expert guidance has made learning complex techniques accessible and engaging. Under his supervision, I have not only improved my flexibility and physical conditioning but also gained a solid foundation in various martial arts techniques and self-defense strategies. Master Dmitry’s classes extend beyond physical training; they also encompass Qigong practices, the philosophy behind Kung Fu, and its historical evolution. His ability to weave these elements into the curriculum has enriched my understanding and appreciation of this ancient art. For anyone interested in a comprehensive Kung Fu education that develops both body and mind, I highly recommend his instruction. -
George D
Currently a student in college (on my last year!) I have been taking Kung Fu with Dmitry for about 6 months now, and I've only seen positive results. Dmitry's positive attitude and his personality attributes help the one-on-one feel less like I'm at a lecture, although you could say a class is a class, to which I'd disagree. I've taken multiple sports in highschool as well as the beginning of my college years, and I'd go as far to say that this form of physical education is something so unique, it's not just your typical fitness routine It's more than that. Aside from the benefit of physical exercise, the breathing exercises, qi gong, helped me relax my mind which is something I haven't felt in a while, made me much more concentrated, mindful and surroundings overall. I believe if it wasn't the Kung Fu exercises, I would've never been able to do as well in this last half a year at college as I am now. Martial Arts has for sure implemented itself into my life and is very very important to me. Thank you!
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Vanessa Linkin
Master Dmitry has been a fantastic teacher for me and my entire family, primarily for my children! They just love him! If you're unaware, Dmitry isn't only a great trainer for adults, but also teaches kids, ages of 5 and up, making him not only a variety trainer... My children get the activity and exercise they need, as well as knowledge about the arts and techniques for self defense. This is very important to us. As someone with his own kids, Dmitry has perfectly understood the approach to ours, and how to have fun while also making it their favorite extracurricular.
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Ricky C
Thank you, Dmitry for your guidance relating to all things martial arts. Your knowledge and wisdom provides an invaluable tool for those of us who have joined you on this path. I wish you continued joy and success, my friend.
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