safety first and always!

Transcription

safety first and always!
Acknowledgment
Hi
Wisdom does not just come about, it is earned with blood, sweat and tears. The
contents of these workbooks may have been written by me, but as with every
person I had many guides, teachers and mentors but also heart breaks, pain
and suffering. Here I would like to acknowledge some of the people who have
contributed to my personal and martial art development.
Frank-Werner
my father, a lord and gentleman who taught me the value of dignity
and honour.
Halina-Anna
my mother, who is still teaching me the meaning of family, parental
wisdom, spirituality and family.
Sensei Arno
who showed me what toughness and persistence is.
Skull Lt. Hans H
combat specialist of German Special Forces, who taught me the reality
of 'martial arts'.
Sensei Christine
who started in me the process of gentleness and redirection.
Dai-Sifu Pier Tsui-Po
who taught me much about who and what a real master is.
Sifu Charles
who showed me the need for precision and accuracy.
Sifu Richard
who showed me how to have fun training.
Master Tsen Do Sun
Mr Shu Shun Tao
Shihan Kong Wing Loh
who laughed at me whilst I was training in the park and taught me the
meaning of forms without using words.
for pointing out the bull-shit (excuse the French).
who is teaching me perspective and vision.
And then there are Shaolin Kung Fu Academy students some of whom have been great teachers to
me;
Sifu Audrey
Sifu Paul
Sifu Wayne
Sifu Vanessa
who was and is the first
and Peta, who were all laughs
who also showed me who I was.
who showed what a real champion is like
Sifu Chris
awesome power of gentleness and inner calm.
Sifu Sarah
who is a mirror
Sifu John
who is a Panther in every way
Sifu Luke
whose persistens is awesome
Est. 2008 December 06
Copyright Master Robert Z
Table of Contents
Est. 2008 December 06
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Copyright Master Robert Z
Table of Contents
Hi
The Marshal of all Weapons
SKA-I Main Focus - Safety
The Dao (Sword)
The Shaolin Tiger Broad Sword
The Greater Tiger Broad Sword Strikes
The Lesser Tiger Broad Sword Strikes
The Continuous & Vagabond Strikes
5 Blocks to Stop the Lot!
Sword Movement angles and directions
Past, Present and Future
Progress
Tiger Broad Sword
Attendance Record
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1
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3
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15
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Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
The Marshal of all Weapons
The Broad Sword, Sabre, Scimitar, Cutlass, Dao is
possibly one of the most popular of all weapons around
the world. It is also a very contemporary weapon as what
you learn with the Dao can also apply to sticks of similar
length; both using it for defence or defending against
someone trying to use it against you.
It is important to remember now as in any other level that
safety is of paramount importance. According to Maslow
it is one of the 4 most important human needs and can
lead to behavioural changes if we contravene this basic
need.
When training with the Dao (Dao Shu) it is important to train slowly, deliberately, with a great
focus on both the weapon, your physical and postural position as well as focus on ‘other’ hand. You
will learn that the ‘unused’ hand will make the difference in real terms between a successful
defence and a tragic end.
Where the Shaolin Staff, Gûn is the Father of All Weapons the Dao is considered the Marshal of All
Weapons. In its family of Sharp Weapons, (further divided in to Slicing and Piercing,) we possibly
have the largest variety of the 5 Weapon Families. To these belong also the Japanese Katana, the
English cavalry Sabre, the Bedouin Sabre and many more.
The Broad Sword was known as the "Hundred Day Weapon" especially in the turbulent times after
the fall of the Ming Dynasty. It was considered that this was the amount of 8 hour days that a
person needed to train to become proficient in its use. Comparatively, this is considered a short
time! That is equivalent to 800 classes! You though only need to spend some 50 hours to get your
Dao level!
Sijo Robert Z
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
SKA-I Main Focus - Safety
It would be difficult to achieve perfection through hard work if you
constantly injured yourself in the process. The very spirit of kung fu is
Safety and Control. What use is any exercise if it causes you pain and
injury and sends messages to your brain of pain whenever you are exercising your body? Sooner or
later you will associate health-giving exercise with pain.
Pain is nature’s way of telling you that there
is something wrong!!
The human body has in-built redundancy to allow us many choices which in times of threat allow
us to push it way beyond its normal usage. Yet when we do this, we damage our body in some way.
This is what top sports people do constantly and why we hear about knee reconstructions, shoulder
injuries, ankle problems and damaged backs.
We do not want this in the Shaolin Kung Fu Academy. We choose to slowly, consistently and
sustain ably develop and build our bodies and minds, and gently push ourselves, with focus, care,
and patience in a safe way, rather than burning our body and mind!
That is why our Primary Rule is:
SAFETY FIRST AND ALWAYS!
Even in the Book of War by Sun Tsu, possibly the greatest and most quoted of all strategists, it was
stated;
"The good warriors first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an
opportunity of defeating the enemy"
Put yourself first beyond the possibility of injury and harm, because that is what self-protection
means.
Safety
Safety
Safety
Safety
Safety
Safety
Safety
Safety
in SKA is more than just not hurting yourself.
is a part of your being.
is a long-term attitude, a way of life perfection.
Prevention and Preparation are the keys!
is Warming-up a minute per year of age, minimum.
is learning new skills carefully and thoroughly.
is life-long.
is a heritage to your children. ☯
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
The Dao (Sword)
The Dao is a great combination of the standard Sabre, curved Sword with the added extra of being a
bit like an Axe. This makes it very versatile but also more volatile to use.
The problem with an axe in battle when it works is that it most likely will get stuck.
Although the axe seems like such a simple weapon, it never found great
popularity because it is very difficult to truly master for
anything other than chopping wood. With the
Dao, all strikes
need to have a
‘drawing’
toward yourself
action and a
slicing action
just before biting into the target; else you will get it stuck just like the axe.
Another key aspect of a sword, or any larger single weapon is to know the difference between
forcing moves and guiding moves. The skill of the kung fu practitioner is to be able to make the
Dao dance rather than perform hacking motions. It is important to handle the sword in such a way
that it continually flows, weaves and sings rather than start, stop robotic actions.
It is best to look at Sword target areas a bit differently than with other weapons. There are wearing
down, debilitating and ending. It is important to note that as a Shaolin style, we need to know how
these work so as to be able to defend against them. We would not use any of the debilitating or
ending strikes. A Shaolin Warrior would choose just to take the attackers weapon from them rather
than harming or hurting!
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
I think that is enough as it is gruesome any which
way you look at it. Yet it is an important skill to
recognise what the intention is of your assailant. Are
they just wanting to defend themselves or are they
out to really harm you? This is very important to
recognise because not every sword battle needs to
finish with one of the battlers seriously hurt or
debilitated. Often, aside from wars and such, just the
drawing of First Blood was enough to settle
arguments and restore honour!
Finally, remerging that the reason we train with
weaponry is to expand and develop ourselves
(internal) not hurt others (external) by accident or
otherwise. It is good to understand how to use the
Dao correctly and more importantly, SAFELY. Keep
this very, very firmly in mind.
Also keep in mind that ‘the other hand’ is very
important to your Dao training, very important.
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Wanjhen
A story from the book, Cingbai Leichao, tells of a girl who helped the people of her village to
defend themselves from being attacked by the troops of the alliance of the British and the French in
Siejhuang, a place near Beijing, in the tenth year of Emperor Siangfong's reign of the Cing. This
girl called Wanjhen was 19 years old and learned martial arts from her father. She explained to her
father that the British and the French were good with gunpowder weapons but not good in martial
arts. She trained the villagers to ambush the intruders with swords and shields and attack them at a
very short distance. When they spotted a group of soldiers 500 to 600 strong heading their way with
a large canon, Wanjhen applied this strategy and even lead the villagers into battle herself. They
killed around one hundred soldiers that resulted in the intruders withdrawing.
The Lengthened Dagger
The sword came into existence as a lengthened dagger after metals were bought to use. The
Scroll/Book Ku Shih L’ao ascribes the invention/modification of the Single Edged Sword (Dao) to
Sui Jen Shih, the second of the San Huang. Having said this, metal was not the only material they
were made from. Stories of Jade Swords, swords made from Sheep’s horn, Sea Shell and other
materials are not unusual in a country where metal was very scarce.
Legendary swords where the front, sharp part were incredibly thin (increasing in thickness towards
the hilt) are credited with being able to cut through armour and even other swords (Willow Leaf
Swords such as in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon).
The top third of the sword is the sharpest, striking part. The bottom third, towards the hilt is blunt
and used for blocking and damaging the sharpness of the opponent’s weapon, while the middle of
the sword is the transition between the two. The 5 parts of the weapon are the Sharpened Blade, the
Thickened Blade, the Guard, the Grip and the Pommel (with or without flag/tassels.)
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Swords would be handed down through the generations from
father to eldest son. This required excellent maintenance to
prevent the sword’s deterioration. Wooden Sheaths wrapped in
leather on the outside were best for the metal. The wood drew the
moisture out of the inside and the leather kept the moisture from
coming in from the outside. The best material for making the
handle was wood and would only be treated with the perspiration
of the user. The metal would be coated with the fat of a Water
Bird to prevent rust and ensure a smooth drawing from the sheath.
The important aspects of a Dao were:
☯ sharpness of the blade
☯ sharpness of the blade after several hundred cuts
☯ sturdiness of the blocking area
☯ the balance in the users hand
☯ a non slippery handle
☯ the quality of the sheath to protect the user and sword from
accidents and weather.
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
There are many, many types and shapes of Dao and combinations of weapons using a Sword like
part including:
Butterfly Knives
Cicada Wing Sword
Double Headed Spear
Eagle Head Sword
Ghost Head Broadsword
Halberd
Heaven and Earth, Sun and Moon Sword
Qian Kun Ri Yue Dao
Horse Chopping Sword
Horse Halberd
Large Horse Halberd
Large Long Handed Broad Sword
Long Broadsword
Twin Ended Halberds
Twin Straight Swords
Nine Hook Broadsword
Nine Ring Broadsword
Ox Ear Sharp Sword
Sleeve Sword
Southern Broadsword
Swallow Tail Broadsword
Three-Point Double-Blade Sword
Two-Handed Broadsword
Two-handed Straight Sword
Hu Die Shuang Dao
Chan Zi Dao
Shuang Tou Qiang
Ying Tao Dao, Pu Dao
Gui Tao Dao
Ji
Zhan Ma Dao
Ma Ji
Kwan Dao
Kwan Dao
Zha Dao
Shuang Shou Ji
Shuang Jian
Jiu Gou Dao
Jiu Huan Dao (Executioners Broad Sword)
Shu Jian
Nan Dao
Yan Zi Dao
San Jian Liang Ren Dao
Shuang Shou Dao, also Bagua Dao
Shuang Shou Jian
A squadron of cavalry, comprising all the brave and intelligent officers and soldiers was organized
by a famous General called Mao Tong during the Han Dynasty (about 50 AD). All of these men
were good at using the horse sabre as a weapon. They defeated a great number of tribal soldiers.
After that, many tribes and races settled along the Chinese boundary
adopted the skill of the horse sabre and used it as their primary weapon.
Among these was Genghis Khan, the most famous Mongol chief
(about 1200 AD). He trained his soldiers to use this sabre on
horseback to fight superbly. As a result, his troops were so powerful that
they eventually conquered the land from East Asia to Eastern Europe, an area
encompassing a fourth of the world. Thus the Mongol's skill in using the horse sabre
reached the highest peak of all times.
The horse sabre was adopted by the Japanese and was remodelled in later times to become the
Japanese Samurai sword. The latter was similar to the former except that the Samurai sword has
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
been used primarily on foot instead of on horseback. Besides, the Japanese Samurai sword has a
shorter handle.
The Horse sabre was also popular in later Chinese history when the tribes of Manchuria used such a
sabre to invade and eventually conquer the whole Chinese territory, dominating the Chinese land
for more than 200 years. The Manchu-dominated government in China was called Ching or Manchu
Dynasty and lasted to 1911.
The Chinese broadsword, one of the most common and popular weapons developed in China,
makes numerous appearances in the country’s history and legends. TSANG HER is the God
directly associated with the broadsword. The name TSANG HER means 'arrives and kills whatever
it touches.' This nickname gives a good indication of the great military power associated with the
sabre.
Chinese historians and poets chronicled many famous sabre wielding martial artists. Wang Wu was
a martial artist known for his sabre skills. He wielded a big broadsword with nine rings on the back
of the blade. The broadsword play of Wang Wu was described as being as 'violent as a tiger on a
prairie'. One poet described broadsword play as 'hurricane sweeping leaves off the trees'.
Broadswords once were the preferred weapons of the Chinese military. In the 1940s, the sabre was
used in the anti-Japanese war in northeast China. The broadsword has existed in China for
thousands of years. There are long, short and very short variations of the weapon. The prototype of
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the modern-day sabre is the long-handled broadsword, similar to the short but a much heavier
weapon. Its size was proportionate to the physique of the bearer.
The average blade weighed about 40 pounds and was about 5 to 8 feet in height. A circular metal
guard was attached to the base of the blade to keep the enemy’s weapon from sliding down and
cutting the bearer’s hand. It was also used to keep the blood from dripping onto the owner’s hand.
The long handle was made of either metal or hardwood. A small piece of metal placed at the base of
the weapon could be thrust at the enemy. Three of the most famous variations of the long-handed
broadsword are the Kwan-Dao, the Yueh-Dao and the Chay Yang-Dao, named after their famous
users.
Some short adaptations of the Chinese broadsword include the Scrape sabre, which is the length of
the forearm, and the even shorter Butterfly Knives, which came in pairs. These weapons were less
than 2 feet in length and were used as back up weapons to the longer blade of the sabre or as a
primary weapon of self-defence. The blade was used to stab and cut. These short sabres were either
strapped to the forearm or hidden in the boot. Quick and easily reversible movements could be
executed with these very short weapons.
The popular modern version of the sabre or broadsword is known as the Dao or Don-Dao. Dao
means knife, with the sabre actually being a long knife developed from an agricultural tool. The
Don-Dao’s blade is curved and wide, with the sharpest area near the tip. The back of the blade is
thick and blunt and is used for blocking. The average blade length is from 25 to 30 inches.
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This famous weapon of ancient China, also known as the 18 Ping, was used for combat in the
middle and close range. The Don-Dao is constructed from a single piece of metal. By wrapping the
handle with cloth or leather, sweat is absorbed and the weapon is easier to grip. A cloth hung from
the handle of the broadsword was used to wipe blood from the blade. The blood groove, an
indentation on either side of the blade, was used to break the suction so that the broadsword could
easily be withdrawn from the enemy’s body.
The broadswords were among the earliest weapons of ancient China, with the Don-Dao considered
to be 'the root of short weapons' because its techniques are relatively simple to learn. In northern
China, the countryside, the weapon was generally longer because its user was taller and the
countryside more open. The southern blade however was shorter and heavier because shorter people
in crowded cities used it.
Soldiers preferred a lighter, quicker blade that could be carried over long distances. Mountain men
and farmers chose a heavier, machete like sabre that could double as an agricultural tool. This type
of Don-Dao featured tremendous cutting power, but lacked speed and was difficult to reverse once
the user began his motion. Some of the more popular Don-Dao’s include the Willow leaf, Pok Dao,
and the Ghost Head Dao.
Originating in the north, the Willow Leaf was light with little curve to the handle and blade. The
Pok-Dao (executioner’s sabre) was thick, heavy and wielded with both hands. From southern China
came the Ghost Head Dao, a shorter weapon used for chopping. Other types of Don-Dao’s are
Grain Leaf Sabre, Goose Feather Sabre, Tiger Tail Knife, Tornado Knife, Plum Blossom Dao,
Oxtail Knife, Whirlwind, Sun-Moo Dao and Crescent Knife.
Sabres also come in pairs and are referred to either as Cern-Dao or Swang-Dao. Double-sabre
techniques come primarily from northern styles. The energy behind the sabre comes from the tiger,
hence the famous Chinese saying, 'brandish the sabre like a Tiger pouncing'. The Don-Dao is used
to slice, chop or thrust at middle to close range. The sweeping figure-eight slashes require extreme
shoulder flexibility and are commonly known as 'flowers'. They not only act as attacking
techniques, but also, create a barrier around the wielder.
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
The Shaolin Tiger Broad Sword
The Shaolin Tiger Broad Sword is composed of 3 weapons. It is a Hybrid of;
1. Straight Sword
2. Curved Sword
3. Axe
It is the most magnificent creation as far as swords go. It has the beautiful curves and lines of a
Curved Sword. Properly made it is mathematically perfect according to natural lines and growth. It
has the full function of a Straight Sword being able to step and jab. And the final bit of brilliance is
that is also has the functions of an Axe. With the top-heavy blade making it ideal for hacking
without making the Sword as unwieldy as an axe!
Blood & Suction Groves
Sharp
Sharp
and Thin
Hilt
Blunt
Blunt &
Thicker
Pommel for cloth
and ‘Hitting’
Hand Guard and
Blood Stop
It is important to hold the Broad Sword at the top of the hilt by the Hand-guard. This increases
control and handling. Never, ever, ever block with the Sharp Bit of the sword, unless your life
depends on it. You use the heavy blunt parts and make your opponent hit them, thus blunting and
damaging their Swords Sharp parts.
The key parts of the Sword need to be appreciated and understood as they all have an important
function to fulfil to keep their wielder alive;
Hilt This is the part with which you control the sword. It needs to be dry, well maintained
and suited to your grip
Blade Has many features but the most important is to keep it clean & edged
Hand Guard Protects your hand for strikes and stops blood from making your hilt slippery
Pommel is also the screw that keeps your sword in one piece and functioning.
Scabbard is what protects your sword from the environment and you from the sword when you
don’t want to be cut by it.
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Shaolin Tiger Broad Sword Techniques
The one that is three has of course three distinct strikes, if you will, that with
some alterations and combinations become many.
Father Marshall of all Weapons will be a bit more complex in strategy and usage
than the Shaolin Staff but is very similar almost identical. As with the Shaolin
Staff, the main strike is the Chop. Unlike most curved Swords, the
Chinese/Shaolin tiger Broad Sword has a thickened end, which allows it to be
used like an Axe for Chopping! As a thickened curved sword, it’s tip is in a
straight line with the hilt and pommel thus allow for piercing and jabbing
like a spear. And finally, it is a curved sword that allows cutting and
slicing! From these three abilities, plus the usage of the ‘other’ end
of the sword we have the three Major Strikes (as above, and the minor
strikes!
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
The Greater Tiger Broad Sword Strikes
The Shaolin Staff being a very mature weapon had a set number of techniques. These are divided
into Attacking and Defending. From principle, we would cover the Defence first but it is easier to
first talk about attacking techniques as this almost explains the defending techniques!
The Tiger Broad Sword Chop
In reality, you need to know one action very well with the Tiger Broad Sword, the Chop
and that is the circular movement. This will constitute 80% of your grading and
usage. No mater if the Sword movement is horizontal or vertical, a quarter of a
circle or 15 circles, backwards or forwards (but with the front of the word), if it
hits after a round movement and does no further action except to withdraw; like
an Axe Chop.
The Tiger Broad Sword Stab/Jab
The Sword is a lengthened dagger/knife and as such, one of the key moves would
be the thrust or Jab. You would first move the Sword from a Guard Position to a
thrusting position and thrust towards the opponent, withdrawing it in the same
linear way!
The Tiger Broad Sword Cut
You seek not to Chop but Cut your opponent, you do this by drawing
the Sword back towards your self, just before impacting on the target,
in a cutting motion. It is important not to ‘Chop’ too much. A small
amount of Chop before drawing back the Sword is required!
The Tiger Broad Sword Scrape
When you are able to do a Chop using only the Tip of the Tiger Broad Sword
‘Scraping” it down the front of your opponent, than you are able to perform the
Tiger Broad Sword Scrape technique! This requires a good amount of accuracy
The Tiger Broad Sword Slap
It is always a good idea to have, in your arsenal of techniques, a variety
that allows to your finish a conflict without the need for pain or damage.
If you perform a Chop but use the flat of the Sword to give your opponent a ‘Slap’,
this is called . . . . a Slap.
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
The Lesser Tiger Broad Sword Strikes
Where there is the great there will also be the less great. Much like the comparison between Tiger &
Panther, it doesn’t
The Tiger Broad Sword Reverse Cut
There is no Reverse Chop or Thrust and a Slap is a slap is a slap. But
there is a Reverse Cut. It is generally executed after a technique, as a follow
up but it is always with the sharp part of the Sword facing in an upward direction.
The Tiger Broad Sword Flick
This is a seemingly complex movement but it is not. It is best used when
performing any round technique. Assume you are executing a sideways
(horizontal) chop, just before impact you ‘flip’ the sword over and
Stab the person with the tip of the Sword. This technique is best used if an
opponent successfully evades the flow of your Sword and you turn this to your
advantage with the Tiger Broad Sword Flick! In essence, this can be viewed as
complex lead in to a Jab!
The Tiger Broad Sword Two-Handed Cut
This is a power technique and for close quarter conditions. It is a round movement
cutting with both hands! It can be at any angle, any direction and any way with a
standard Sword handling. The focus of the pressure is on the Sharp round front part
of the Sword.
The Tiger Broad Sword Push/Hit
Again, a two handed technique like the Two-Handed Cut, except that this is a straight pushing
motion with the blunt, strong part of the word which is closer to the hilt. This is used to push a
weapon or attacker away to gain distance or even to Hit or Impact the attacker to stun them.
The Tiger Broad Sword Pommel & Punch
Using your fist in much the same way you would use it for a standard straight
Hammer Punch (Pummel) or a Round House (Moon Fist) Punch with the fist,
this technique focuses on the opposite side of the Sword. Another technique that is
used to stun the opponent rather than hurting and also for Close Quarter situations!
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
The Continuous & Vagabond Strikes
Again, much the same as the Staff Movements, we have some technique that cam be used in a
contentious flowing movement
The Continuous Uppercut/Reverse Chop
Not so easy to explain in detail, essentially it is a Continuous-uplifting Slice alternating from Side
to site. Much the same as in the Shaolin Staff. This is very effective when performed with two
Swords.
Whirlwind Sword
In effect again, much the same as the Shaolin Staff, you are rotating the sword around your upper
body. It can be performed either way although it works best for right Handed use anti-clock wise
and for left handed people clock-wise. This is also sometimes called the flying executioners
movement or technique because the Sword targets the neck of multiple opponents and the user ads
to the force by adding to the force of the movement with supportive body turns!
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Spine Shielding Chop
This is very similar to the Whirlwind Sword except for two details;
1. You turn your body opposite to the Sword turning direction
2. Your Sword drops down along your spine protecting it when it is behind your body.
From a top down perspective it loos the same as the Whirlwind Sword except of the extra
movement flipping the Sword into a Spine Shielding position before whipping it over the shoulder
like the Whirlwind Sword.
Inverted Slice
The ability to use your weapon left handed and right handed is part of your Shaolin training as is the
ability to invert your weapon! As with the Shaolin Staff you have Long Staff and Short Staff, with
the Tiger Broad Sword you have the Standard and Inverted
Swords. In some areas this is called a vagabond art as
the Sword can be well hidden until just before it
bites! This movement can also be made on
continuous rotation and with two weapons
Inverted Jab
Very effective when stabbing backwards or in close quarter defence. And exceedingly surprising
when combined with a 180 degree turn toward the
opponent in front of you. You will see more of this.
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
5 Blocks to Stop the Lot!
We need to understand that you will not have a staff for long if you block Swords and other cutting
implements with it. So we need to distinguish what weapon is being blocked. But more to this later.
Let us look at the 5 Types of Blocks; Stopping, Redirecting, Accelerating, Shielding and Interfering
Intercepting Block
This blocks stops the attack dead and sends it back the way it came.
1. The first is by applying almost equal counter force to the attack (Intercept Counter Block)
2. The second is by just holding the staff in the path of the attack (Intercept Hold Block).
Generally, if the attack is to the upper part of the body your best option
is to use the Holding Block. If the attack is below the sash you would most
likely use the Countering Block. Attack to the groin is the exception; use the Holding
Block whilst dropping to a lower stance.
Redirecting Block
Redirecting blocks are really just a variation of the stopping block; we just need to be
aware that a blocked weapon can ‘bounce’ and be re-aimed at another
body part. With the stopping block, the attacker needs to make a great effort
to avoid the blocking sword if they wish to use the impetus to attack. With
the redirection block, you need to ensure that the attacker is not in a better position to
attack you again using the bounce to
make their move! There are also two flavours of
redirecting;
1. Passive, allowing the attacking implement
to bounce of in another direction without
you making any additional movement.
2. Active, where you actually add some force
to make the attacking weapon bounce away
more
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Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Accelerating Block
This block is not really a block, as you are not deflecting the
weapon from its path! And before you do this, you need
to get out of the way so that the intended
technique does not actually hit you. What you
achieve with this is that opponents overreach themselves and thus losses control and possibly
balance. By assisting with the original movement, you accelerate the technique and do it in such a
way that the attacker cannot change the flow easily to attack you.
This is the best block for heavy weapon attacks or heavy weapon wielders. Some like to rely on
their strength or the size of their tool to force their way through a defence. Some have the stamina to
do this successfully. It will be ever so frustrating for them if they do not meet any resistance and all
their force goes nowhere!
Arrow Shield (Horizontal & Vertical)
Again, much the same principle as with the Staff except with the Sword, you are creating an Arrow
Shield of Steel. It also sound similar to the two previous techniques except that the hand stays in the
same place not leaving a gap for arrows to easily penetrate. When using this in front of yourself
,your hand stays in front of your Solar Plexus. When shielding against falling arrows, your hand is
directly above the Crown of your head your head!
Attacking Block
When is a block not a block? When it is an attack! Yet this does both, under certain circumstances!
It is a combination of any block but performed in such a way that the Blocking movement carries
you away from the attacking implement and toward an open part of your attackers body. In essence,
once you have trained your eye, this is the Tactic to use against almost any attack!
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 18
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Shaolin Tiger Broad Sword Control
It is in our ability to control our tools and ourselves that allows us to use these tools effectively! If
you can only use a hammer at full strength each time, you cannot use it for small nails and you will
not use it. If you cannot control your weapon and are only able to apply lethal or debilitating blows,
you will not use it for practice and thus not use it in other than deadly circumstances. You say this is
how it should be with a weapon. Well it is not!
A Sword is a dangerous weapon and you need to learn to handle it with confidence; else it will
cause you more harm than help. No matter if you are training to be a Warrior or just using the
weapon for heath and fitness. You need to learn to respect what a weapon can do bot in controlled
and uncontrolled circumstances. More than with bare hands and staff, the Sword needs to be
handled with Skill and Care! Take this to heart!
8 Danger Targets
The Tiger Broad Sword, as you now know can be used for Chopping, Cutting and stabbing; so it
has a quite a few targets available. Yet, it is the Shaolin Tiger Broad Sword and it has the one main
target and the many other targets all of which are lethal. Be prepared to protect them.
1. The Neck is the Number 1 Target for Chopping, Cutting and Stabbing
2. Vital Organs are the next most on the hierarchy of what you need to protect. Generally,
these are attacked through stabbing.
3. Tendon attacks through Slicing are very dangerous, as they are very easy to attack and very
debilitating.
4. Head and Bone attacks through heavy Chopping will cause severe damage.
8 Sparring Targets
A hard Staff will do most damage on hard targets. That is why the 9 Danger Points are joints and
bones and that is exactly what you avoid when sparring.
1. Forearms, the muscled fleshy bit
2. Upper arms away from the joints and on the fleshy not hard parts
3. Chest also not in the centre but on the fleshy muscles
4. Stomach below the Solar Plexus and above the Hip bones
5. Bum, a favourite target for sticks through the ages
6. Upper Leg
7. Lower leg and
8. Solar Plexus with a Thrust or Jab
And now the 8 precise angles that we use the Shaolin Staff and Tiger Broad Sword
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 19
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
It’s all About the
Angles
Up
Whenever striking with the Shaolin
Staff you will strike in one of the
Up/Right
ways depicted to the right. It will be
Up/Left
travelling vertically up or down,
horizontally left or right, obliquely on
45 degrees left to right; up or down or
right to left; up or down. Any other
Right
Left
angles show a lack of Staff Control.
Your Staff end positions will also end
up a combination of the two drawing
to the right!
Down/Right
Down/Left
Down
Summary
Now I know there is a lot to learn but .
. . it all stays much the same for all
other impact weapons and many
weapons in general. You will need to
know all of this for all your theory as
you may also be tested verbally. It
will make everything much easier if
the grader can park at you; Neck
Chops and you know what this is
other than a piece of meat.
3 by 3 for all to see
A simple system, there are three primary techniques, 3 combination techniques and 3
complimentary techniques. But is you look past all the ‘complexities most all are just Chops in
disguise or with friends.
And let us not forget that each and everyone of these techniques has the ‘Inverted’ Shadow
technique. Now that makes it even more interesting!
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 20
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
3 Continuous Sword Movement
Fan
Cloud
Butterfly
upward rotations, uppercuts
downward rotations
fancy rotations
And 3 Blocks; Yin and Yang
Intercept - Stop and Reverse
The first is your standard Stop and Send
Back to where it came from. It is virtually
force against force and bounces the attacking
object back on it self. This block has three ‘aspects’;
a.
Thrust/Hold
b.
Counter Chop
Redirect - Bounce & Continue
Here you take less than the full force of the sword and do not stop it. With redirecting, the attacking
technique is ‘deflected; and continues travelling in the same general direction with a bit of a bump.
Again two versions;
a.
Round Movement
b.
Linear movement (stirring)
Accelerate
Accelerate is where you get behind the force
of the attacking weapon and speed, accelerate it
in the same direction it was already travelling.
a.
Block edge of Sword
b.
Reverse edge of Sword
And to break the set of
3’s, 4 postures!
Safe
Guard
Warrior
Guardian
Natural Stance with sword in the
safe position
in principle, the same as the standard Shaolin Kung Fu Guard Stance
with the Sword vertical on one or the other side
with the sword diagonally above your head
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 21
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Sword Movement angles and directions
At this level we work on the compass directions, the octagon. They refer to the direction the staff is
coming from. Of course when you are sparring you will use any direction that achieves the job but
to learn precision, accuracy and thus control you need to limit yourself to the 8 Major Direction.
North, North-East, East, South-East, South, South-West, West, North-West. At the more senior
levels you will be required to also handle the in-between angles.
Top
Top/Left
Top/Right
Right
Left
Bottom/Leftt
Bottom/Right
Bottom
And a tip; if you have a problem remembering where East & West are, remember NEWS which
comes from the Compass directions (I come baring stories from the north & east and from the West
and south. . . ). Starting at the Top going clock wise N, E so East is at 3 o’clock and West is at 9
o’clock! (I hope this helps . . . )
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 22
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Past, Present and Future
It is good to know what you have achieved, where you are and what you wish to achieve. Use this
page to practice this life skill and note down at leat two items in each category
Past
1 I have decided in my Kung Fu training to aim at achieving ___________________ Sash
2 _________________________________________________________________________
3 _________________________________________________________________________
Present
1 I am working on passing this level with credit
2 _________________________________________________________________________
3 _________________________________________________________________________
Future Immediate & Medium term
1 I will become a Red Sash
2 _________________________________________________________________________
3 _________________________________________________________________________
Future Long term
1 I will become a Black Sash
2 _________________________________________________________________________
3 _________________________________________________________________________
Dreams
1 _________________________________________________________________________
2 _________________________________________________________________________
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 23
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Progress
It is good to appreciate what we have achieved! From Shaolin 5 Animal Kung Fu point of view
there are initially two major reasons;
1. If we do not appreciate our success, both small and large; we will cease to succeed!
2. How we achieve our initial improvements/success is NOT how we continue to achieve
improvements/success. We need to recognise when old habits & methods no longer work!
For this reason it would be a very good idea, once you have received this book, to record the
following details;
Physical Details______________ Date Today ________
My Age
years My Hight cm ______ My Body Weight kg
Chest Size
cm ___________Tummy cm ________________ Hips cm
left Upper Arm _______________ cm Lower Arm __________ cm Fist________________cm
right Upper Arm ______________ cm Lower Arm __________ cm Fist________________cm
left Quad
cm _____________ Calf cm _______________ Ankle cm
right Quad
cm _____________ Calf cm _______________ Ankle cm
Strength ________________________ (Amount total)
Push Ups
________ Sit-ups ____________________ Squats
_____________________________ (Distance in cm)
High Jump cm __Long Jump cm __________ Hop-Step-Jump cm
Stretch ______________ (measured in Hands & Fingers)
Sitting-Leg Split against wall ____________ left bend _______________
Hands & fingers from crotch to wall
right bend ________
both hands either side of leg - distance to foot (+/-)
Hands up & down spine - left up ___________________cm Right-up ___________________cm
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 24
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Speed/Coordination _________ (how many in one minute)
100 Straight Punches _____________ 100 Front Kicks__________ 100 O Blocks__________
Stature __________________ (completed by Instructor)
Ideal Horse Stance
Head ..................................................... tilt L5 - 4 - 3 - 2 - 1 - 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5R
Body ................................................... lean L5 - 4 - 3 - 2 - 1 - 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5R
Hips .................................................... lean L5 - 4 - 3 - 2 - 1 - 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5R
Left Leg .......................................... inward L5 - 4 - 3 - 2 - 1 - 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5R
Right Leg .........................................inward L5 - 4 - 3 - 2 - 1 - 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5R
Stance Hight .................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Stamina_____________________ (how many seconds)
Ideal Stance Horse, Golden Buddha________________ sec Shadow Sparring_____________sec
Hand Stand Against Wall ________________________ sec Lower Push Up Position _______sec
Beats Per Minute _________________BPM
Notes, items you wish to focus on/achieve
1 _____________________________________________________________________________
2
3 _____________________________________________________________________________
4 _____________________________________________________________________________
5 _____________________________________________________________________________
Maybe _________________________________________________________________________
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 25
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Tiger Broad Sword
WarmWarm-up
Checking
Preparation
Warm-up
Loosening
Balance & Coord
100 Exercises
2 Min Stc Hrs
Stances
Guard
Dragon
Needs Work
Pass
Good
Standing Stretches................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Stances Stretching ................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Push-ups, Sit-ups etc ............................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Sitting ...................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Crane Walking ........................................ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Punches ................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Kicks ....................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Toes ......................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Height of Stance...................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Stability of Stance ................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Calmness of Posture................................ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Quietness of Body & Spirit ..................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Natural..................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Body ........................................................ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Hands....................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Correctness............................................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Height..................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Bare Hand Skills
Needs Work
Pass
Good
Kicks Roundhouse Single.................................................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Roundhouse Double (Low-High)............................ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
13 Directions ........................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Elbows Front ....................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Back......................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Knees Uplifting ................................................................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Round ..................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Sword Skills
Needs Work
Pass
Good
Postures Safety...................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Guard....................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Warrior .................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Defence Stopping Blocking.................................................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Redirecting Blocking.............................................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Accelerated Blocking ............................................ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Attack Chop ....................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Cut ........................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Scrape ...................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Thrust ...................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Punch....................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Pommel.................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 26
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Form shaolin Tiger Broad Sword 1
Needs Work
Pass
Good
Footwork Stances Executed Correctly..................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Moving from Posture to Posture ............................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Stability ................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Body Posture..................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Balance .................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Head and Correct Looking ...................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Spirit Breathing ................................................................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Attitude.................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Walking-On, Start and Finishing ............................ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Skill Correct Function of Techniques.............................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Angles and Direction of Techniques....................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Strength of Techniques............................................ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Sword Safe Sparring
Needs Work
Pass
Good
Footwork Stances Executed Correctly..................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Moving from Posture to Posture ............................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Stability ................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Body Posture..................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Balance .................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Head and Correct Looking ...................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Spirit Breathing ................................................................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Attitude.................................................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Walking-On, Start and Finishing ............................ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Skill Correct Function of Techniques.............................. 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Angles and Direction of Techniques....................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Strength of Techniques............................................ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Tiger Broad Sword Knowledge
Needs Work
Pass
Good
Questions - List the Shaolin Rules (5) ..................................... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
- List Sword Skills relevant to this Level (12) ........ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
- List the parts of the Shaolin Broad Sword ............ 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
- List the 8 striking and 8 directional angles ........... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
- How can weaponry training be used? 100w+ ....... 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Shadow Skills
Bare Hand Iron Palm Blocking
Clapping Hand Sword Block
Cranes Wing Block
Sword Hand Grab
Chinese/Panther Lower Kick
Sword Spinning Roundhouse Kick Sword Scythe
Continuous Uppercuts
Crow (Inverted Sword) Skills
Sword Knife Combination
Twin Sword Skills
Updated 22/03/2010
Page - 27
Not Needed for Gradings
Copyright Master Robert Z
Shaolin Kung Fu Academy
Book of Shaolin Sword (Dao) 1
Attendance Record
Date & Signature
Date & Signature
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Class attendance register
Updated 22/03/2010
all previous classes
from all workbooks
+
Page - 28
this level classes
when level
completed
=
total Classes when
level completed
Copyright Master Robert Z