Northern Shaolin 北少林
The forms below come from Classical Northern Kung Fu and are the core forms taught in my curriculum. I believe forms are very important but too many forms in my opinion are not necessary. The below forms to me happen to be some of the best and most beneficial forms I've learned.
1. Tán Tuǐ 彈腿
Tan Tui is also known as Springing Legs. They are a set of forms originally practiced in the Chinese Muslim community. They teach a student how to put basic stances, strikes and blocks together in a sequence moving in a straight line. The forms teach different types of power generation not relying on brute force. The most common are the 10 set and a 12 set roads. Unlike other forms they are not very flashy. Instead the strikes are more direct and to the point. The forms contain many techniques applicable for the street. Strikes, blocks, escapes, joint locks, and throws. Tan Tui forms are some of the most universal forms practiced and taught by many schools and can be a style within itself.
2. Northern Arranged 2 man Set
This set is taught along side the 12 set Tan Tui (Springing legs) forms. This form is taught to help prepare a student for fighting drills.
3. Gin Kung 金钢
Gin Kung is a Breathing form designed to harden and strengthen the body.
4. Tan Li
This form is designed to teach the use of basic stances, combat concepts, internal spring and waist power in a persons movements.
This form is designed to teach the use of basic stances, combat concepts, internal spring and waist power in a persons movements.
5. Gun 棍
Gun or Staff is considered the Father to all Chinese classical weapons. A basic weapon taught in many Chinese martial arts. The Staff form teaches a person how to maneuver a staff. The student begins to learn how to integrate the movements of the body with the staff so that the weapon becomes an extension of the body.
6. Dan Dao 單刀
Dan Dao translates to a big Knife. The Dao represents a category of single edged, broad bladed weapons used for slicing or chopping. There are many types of Dao's which exist all with distinct shapes and sizes. The Dao is considered the General of all weapons. The Dan Dao form teaches a person the basic techniques utilized with the Broadsword and how to put them together.
7. Jian 劍
Jian is a straight sword used during the last 2,500 years in China. The weapon is known as a "Gentlemans weapon." A weapon carried by scholars and wielded with power and grace. This form and weapon contain great subtle movements. The blade utilizes quick cuts, slashes, stabs and deflections. A weapon of great precision.
Jian is a straight sword used during the last 2,500 years in China. The weapon is known as a "Gentlemans weapon." A weapon carried by scholars and wielded with power and grace. This form and weapon contain great subtle movements. The blade utilizes quick cuts, slashes, stabs and deflections. A weapon of great precision.
