Overview

Kathy Yang posing with straight sword

Sword Fundamentals: The most elegant yet complex weapon to master
YMAA Boston – Boston, MA – August 9th and 10th, 2008

Many Chinese martial arts styles include training with the double-edged narrow blade straight sword, and all of them share the same sword principles, theory, and basics. In this seminar, there will be an emphasis on basic drills and exercises that help to form a proper foundation for effective sword training. Understanding the sword and its fundamental techniques is absolutely essential to fully utilizing this complex weapon. The straight sword is considered one of the most difficult weapons to master. In this seminar, topics covered will include understanding the sword, basics of sword techniques and skills, solo practice, 2-person practice, stances, and correct body structure. This seminar is a highly recommended prerequisite for Sword – Level 2, where the well-known form San Cai Jian will be taught.

Seminar/Workshop Program

The focus of this seminar will be on fundamentals for the Chinese straight sword. As with any martial art, properly learning the fundamentals will determine the rest of your practice. It is important to build good habits early on in the training process instead of trying to break bad ones later on. Be sure to practice regularly. Topics reviewed will include:

1. Stances
   Building proper leg strength, form, and body structure are absolutely essential to any martial style. In order to properly and effectively use the sword, the movement of the sword must flow in conjunction with the legs and body form. Training stationary stances are important for conditioning the body and legs, as well as building correct habits.
2. Footwork
   Footwork is important for maneuvering from place to place. It is absolutely essential in any type of martial arts training, especially in maximizing the range and usage of any weapon used. Stepping, hopping, and jumping are all used to adjust the distance to and from an opponent. All of the fundamental stances should be incorporated into footwork practice, ensuring proper rooting, balance, and control of your arms, legs, and weapon at all times.
3. Solo Practice
   Most of the exercises and drills are designed to help a sword practitioner build good habits and a proper foundation. They will be taught first stationary, then moving. There are about 7 fundamental techniques that will be reviewed in detail.
4. 2-Person Practice
   After getting a comfortable feel for solo practice, practicing with a partner is highly recommended. It is the only way a practitioner will be able to build a proper sense of distance, power, and body movement. As with solo practice, first stationary practice will be taught, followed by moving. There are about 10 matching drills.

Throughout the seminar, straight sword training theory and proper ways of practice will be emphasized. There will be a brief review of the sword itself, its physical structure and makeup, and practice tips to keep in mind.

Who's Teaching?

YMAA instructors Nicholas Yang, George Dominguez, and Ben Warner have trained the Chinese straight sword with Dr. Yang for many years and will be leading the seminar discussion and exercises.

Who Should Attend?

Everybody is welcome to attend this Sword seminar. Previous martial arts experience is a plus, but not required. Attendance is limited, so register soon. This seminar will benefit:

• Martial artists of all levels seeking a traditional and solid foundation in training the Chinese straight sword. The sword is considered a light, elegant yet deadly weapon.
• Experienced martial artists who are looking to develop a deeper understanding of sword practice, both solo and with a partner

What Should I Bring?

You will be required to bring a wooden straight sword to this seminar. A typical length for the straight sword is 30". The blade is straight, unlike Samurai swords. During matching sets, the swords will wear down a lot and sometimes break, so look into investing in a cheap but durable sword to start out. We do not have swords for sale at YMAA. If there is enough interest, we may order swords for participants that contact us by June. You may bring a metal sword for solo practice, but it is not required. We recommend wearing loose practice clothing (t-shirt and pants) and a pair of indoor shoes unless you prefer training barefoot. Street shoes are not permitted on the training floor.

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