Shaolin Kung Fu Plate Preparation

Shaolin kung-fu is a traditional Chinese martial art that contains both hard elements, such as karate, and softer elements, such as aikido. Learning Shaolin kung-fu is a lifetime pursuit that requires a teacher, called a sifu, and dedicated practice. Training at home can provide the practice that is critical to progressing in the art.

Types

Shaolin kung-fu is well adapted to home training because of its extensive use of forms. Forms are sets of techniques designed to teach a particular series of moves which have a thematic connection. Forms are an inherently solo training device, so their repetition should be the core of your home training. Repetition to the point of muscle memory is only the beginning of the learning possibilities offered by a form. The important aspect of learning comes when you begin to dissect the form and evaluate its constituent parts, determining what lessons are being communicated through the medium of the form.

Additional Benefits

Shaolin training often incorporates strength-training based around the idea of dynamic tension. Dynamic tension exercises focus on the coordination of breathing and the tension in the body in a static or dynamic position. The I Chin Ching is one of the most encountered tension sets in Shaolin schools. The 18 Continuous Postures of Yeh Fei or the Magic Six Kungrobics sets are other examples of dynamic tension exercises. These exercises require very little space to practice and can provide a low-impact workout tailored to the requirements of Shaolin training.

Significance

Training at home can give you the time to focus on the basics of your art and gain a deeper understanding of it through form repetition and exploration of difficult material. The key is focus and regular disciplined training. Short workouts that make the most of your time are better than long, distracted training sessions. Keep forms in the center of your workouts, but vary the material that you cover to avoid boredom and burnout.

Equipment

Home training can be accomplished with a minimum of equipment. Practicing weapon forms requires the appropriate weapon or an improvised stand-in, such as a short shovel handle. A punching bag is a useful tool for practicing kicks and punches.

Considerations

Practicing forms at home has the potential for error creep. Without a sifu's oversight, mistakes in your forms can become habits that are difficult to correct. The most reliable way to combat error creep is to attend regular classes as often as possible. If you cannot do this, reference videos of your sifu performing your forms. Practicing with a partner is also critical for the effective development of your Shaolin training. Although you can practice techniques alone, applying them requires a partner. If you cannot find a partner who studies your system of Shaolin kung-fu, find someone who practices another traditional martial art. This can broaden your horizons and provide another perspective.
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