Reminder-Studio Closure
Just a reminder to our students… the studio is closed Friday, August 30th through Monday September 2nd for the long Labor Day Weekend. Have a safe and fun weekend. We’ll see you on Tuesday, September 3rd.
Because of Martial Arts
What makes you who you are? Century Martial Arts has created a short video that answers that question for some. Check it out: Because of Martial Arts (click the “read more” to activate the link)
Stretch your way to better Kung Fu
Ever wonder why some folks just seem to be able to execute better kicks and stances while performing their kung fu techniques? Some of it is awareness of body positioning, of course, and a focused attention to detail. But there’s also that additional element called…. flexibility. We spend time in class going through various stretching motions to help increase the student’s flexibility.
But, the student needs to add to those moments through practicing their own self-disciplined stretching actions. To become more flexible requires some dedication around daily stretching. Your stretching doesn’t have to be those deep, painful pulls. In fact, stretching should NOT be painful. If done correctly, the stretch should actually feel good! Spend a little time each day, but each day, also push past that point of tension just a bit more. If done consistently, you will begin to see the difference, and increased flexibility not only will make your kicks and stances stronger…. it will make YOU stronger.
Belt Advancements Demonstrate Achievement
Whether you study kung fu, karate, TKD, or some other form of martial arts, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your skill achievement through regularly scheduled belt advancements. Earning a new belt rank not only solidifies the skills you have been working on, it sets you up for a new level of achievement. What a great opportunity!
Tai Chi in the Park
The first Shaolin Studios Weekend Retreat was held in Boston on July 12-14, 2013. Grandmaster DeMasco taught a kung fu Black Tiger Chi Quong form, and Senior Master Meyer taught a Tai Chi Sword Form. The weather was perfect for our activity, and we drew several onlookers as we practiced our movements. There is talk of possibly holding another retreat in March. Stay tuned for more details….
Front Room Face Lift
We gave our front room a make-over with new paint, more seating, and re-arranged wall-hangings. Come in and check us out! And while you’re here, if you are new to us, ask about our kung fu and martial arts programs and any unadvertised specials we may be running.
Don’t let the heat get you down
It’s easy to skip training when the heat is high and the humidity seems out of control. But pushing through the discomfort can bring its own reward. Often the heat provides an opportunity to move very slowly, and this, in turn, provides a new perspective on the intricate moves of a form or technique.
Kung Fu or Other Martial Art?
Should you study kung fu or some other style of martial arts? This is a personal question that goes to the heart of values and purpose. What is your purpose in studying the martial arts? Is it only for physical fitness? Then all martial arts will provide that. Is it for focus? Again, all martial arts will enhance your ability to focus. Balance, strength, flexibility? These characteristics are the essence of all martial arts. Self Defense? Some forms of martial arts are better at this than others, but all provide the basics.
And, while all martial arts have a spiritual side to them, kung fu originated through a desire to meld mind, spirit, and body into one united being. Learning the physical aspects of any martial arts takes practice and commitment, but truly understanding the deepest essence of your study, and bringing the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects all together, takes a commitment and focus that students spend years pursuing. May YOUR journey be filled with beautiful discoveries.
15 Students Advance to Next Rank
Fifteen students advanced in their kung fu ranking on Saturday, June 15th. The day was warm, causing the younger students to “wilt” a bit as the time went by, but 2 students successfully advanced to Yellow belt, 3 students advanced to Orange, and 7 students moved to their Purple belt rank. Blue, 1st Degree Brown, and 3rd Degree Brown rounded out the last of the advancements. The 3rd Degree ranking in Brown is the last belt before Black Belt, and thus we offer our sincerest congratulations to Steve S. who successfully completed this stage of his journey.
Market Square Day Activities
As the runners streamed by our yet-to-be-erected tent/booth, SDSS staff prepared for a busy day of activities on our annual Portsmouth Market Square Day appearance. We honestly love this opportunity to interact with our greater community. The chance to meet both local-area residents and tourists, and answer any and all questions about our kung fu programs is unparalleled.
This year turned out to be particularly interesting as many who stopped by to chat, asked questions about the physical demands of kung fu, how we worked with students with exceptionalities, what our class schedule was, and even, about our training at the Shaolin Temple in China! Many entered our drawing for a free month of group classes, and several asked to be added to our mailing list. Nearly everyone one who stopped by accepted our free sports water bottle, and we did our best to give one to all who passed by.
Several of our students stopped by to chat, some even stayed and helped. We even snuck in a quick demo of forms here and there. Add to that, the weather finally cleared (even if it was rather windy), and all in all, the day was absolutely fantastic. We’re already planning new ideas for next year!