WUSHU
Wushu is the proper term for what most Americans refer to as Kung fu. It is one of the oldest styles of martial arts in the world, tracing its origins back to the Shaolin temple at Mt. Song. Wushu differs from Tae Kwon do or Karate in both principle and technique, with movements that are fluid and circular, as opposed to linear and square.
At Mt. Song Academy we teach specifically Northern Shaolin Wushu, also quite distinct from other more popular styles of Wushu, such as Wing Chun or Jeet Kune do. Our curriculum is similar to that taught at the Mt. Song temple today, of course with a few concessions for the modern lifestyle.
Curriculum at a glance:
- Traditional hand forms
- Shaolin Weapons
- Qin-na (joint locks)
- Combat Applications
- Animal styles
TAI CHI
Tai Ji is well known for its relaxing and meditative qualities as well as for the numerous health benefits it produces. The art has often been called a form of “moving meditation.” An aspect of Tai Ji that is often overlooked, however, is its history as a long-practiced form of self-defense.
At Mt Song Academy, we teach a balance between both the internal and the external of Tai Ji: the mental focus and fluidity, as well as the practical applications found within the movements.
Curriculum at a glance:
- Qi gong
- Yang style
- Chen style
- Push hands,
- Tai Ji weapons
SANDA
Sanda, which simply means, “free, or open, fighting,” is the Chinese style of kickboxing. It is similar to Muay Thai, though with an emphasis on more elaborate throws and takedowns, which are unique to Sanda.
Our Sanda classes fit the need of both the aspiring fighter, as well as the fitness oriented. It is important to note, that Sanda is not a “cardio kickboxing” class seen in many gyms today.
While Sanda students will improve in their cardio, they will also improve in strength, speed, coordination and self-defense awareness. A typical class includes pad work, drill work, calisthenics, weight training, and light contact sparring or shadowboxing. Competition training opportunities are also available to students interested in gaining experience in the ring.