Pushing Hands:

The physics of pushing hands contains countless metaphors pertaining to conflict and interaction in any sphere of existence, not just the physical.
It highlights the relationship between yin and yang, and requires that a student allow them to establish their own balance rather than dictating arbitrary levels as an act of will.
This is why the exploration of pushing hands is essential to a student’s progress.
The Quan (form) will greatly aid students in coming to terms with their own physical identities, but it needs to be applied martially, in order to be fathomed fully.

Weapons training:

When students can stand and walk properly, when they have learned the 108 movements of the Da Man Quan (Big Slow form), when they have started their studies of pushing hands and can neutralise an incoming force, then we introduce them to weapon sets.

Weapons develop the mind and body to another level again. Beyond the obvious cardio-vascular and skeleto-muscular benefits of moving large weights around quickly, they are also vital for developing ones understanding of Qi and energy, especially if one intends to become a healer. In order to become fluent, one must learn to listen to the weapon as well as issue commands, and this is again a reflection of the more meditative, quiescent aspect of the training.

Weapons tune the practitioners mind to reveal new interpretations of the Da Man Quan, and prepare the student for studying the ‘fast’ form, or Kwai Quan. The Kwai Quan is the full combat version of the Da Man Quan, and its study is not undertaken lightly or prematurely.

Traditional Wu Shi Tai Ji Quan consists of forms for the Sword (Straight-Sword), Knife (Broadsword), Spear and Staff.