Monthly Newsletter - February 2016

Dear Friends,

Happy Year of the Monkey! Like a monkey we should try to be clever and flexible while looking at new problems.  However, in addition to being creative, we still need to allow ourselves to be silly and take time to have fun. From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, don't miss out on the action!

School Closings Sash Test Recap Chinese New Year Celebrations! CMAA’s First Kungfu Black Belt: Schuyler Wang Master Ching Yin-Lee Seminar’s Recap Student(s) of the Month – Elaine and JJ "The Incredible Duo" Savaria  Watch and Learn Tai Chi Brazilian JiuJitsu and Tai Chi CMAA Team Jackets and Hoodies For Sale Star Wars Kungfu 2.0

School Closings All classes will be held as regularly scheduled.

Kungfu Sash Test  

As always I wanted to say great job to those of you who participated in January's Sash Test. Congratulations to those of you who put in the extra work over the last few months.  It's really paid off and I am seeing lots of great progress!  What an awesome group!

CMAA’s first Kungfu Black Belt: Schuyler Wang Yes, Schuyler is a prodigy. When you combine that with his work ethic you have success. However, he's also thoughtful and kind, always greeting classmates with hugs and high fives. I am very proud to announce that CMAA has officially awarded it’s first Black Belt in Wushu - Kungfu to Schuyler Wang! Congrats Schuyler you earned it. Now I can't wait to see where you take it!

Check out the video below to hear Schuyler talk about what it means to him!

Master Ching Yin Lee Seminars

Dear Students and Parents of CMAA,

Thank you for making my stay in Latham so wonderful.

Everyone was so welcoming to my stay. Also, your hard work and joy in training was a real inspiration to me.

The Tai Chi students were all so dedicated and focused.

The parents were so friendly and supportive. '

I look forward to seeing everyone again!

Yours truly,

Ching-Yin "Bee" Lee

Yours truly,

Ching Lee (240) 678-3854 http://www.gosumartialarts.com

Ching Yin Lee’s seminars were simple, challenging and focused on the details. It was a way of presenting the fundamental principles in a different way. While the concepts he talked about were very familiar, it is always good to be reminded of them.

In addition, I wanted to mention that I was paid a very big compliment from several of our students. They said that in addition to loving the what they’ve learned during the seminars from our various guest instructors, that all of our guest including Steven Juman, Benoit Denolle, Brandon Sugiyama, Peter Wolf and Ching Yin Lee, were also all very down to earth, genuine people and that they felt very comfortable learning with them. I think this one of the cornerstones of CMAA. Our focus on martial arts is greater than techniques, its about true positive energy.

Watch and Learn Tai Chi Did you ever wish you could just sit back, relax and learn Tai Chi from the comfort of your couch? Well, now you can! “But how much does it cost?” NOTHING! That’s right, you can learn more about Tai Chi, for FREE from the comfort of your own home:) Throughout the winter might be finding yourself spending a little more time at home. Check out this link to find some awesome documentaries on the tradition, techniques and history of Chinese martial arts! Watch and Learn! Click here!

Watch and Learn Kungfu For those of you more interested in Kungfu (or with more time!), here’s a collection of Kungfu documentaries and shows as well, enjoy! KungFu Documentaries- Watch Here!

Brazilian JiuJitsu and Tai Chi  Most of your know I have practiced Brazilian JiuJitsu (BJJ) for several years.  It's become a passion of mine, outside of Chinese Martial Arts.  I have learned a lot about martial arts by getting out of my comfort zone, and putting a white belt back on.  In addition, I feel like it's given me another perspective on martial arts and allowed me to understand Chinese martial arts in a different way.  In many ways, I compare BJJ to Chinese martial arts and feel they have many similarities.  Aparently, I am not the only one!  Click here to read a very interesting article about the similarities between these two seemingly very different arts! Brothers in Arms - BJJ and Tai Chi

Chinese New Year Celebrations - CMAA In High Demand! CMAA has been invited to showcase our talents at a few events this year, including several Chinese New Year celebrations. The first of these events will be held at the The Egg on 2/6 from 3-5pm. The second will be held at the Clifton Park public libray on 2/13 and the East Greenbush YMCA on the 20th from 4-6pm. For the East Greenbush YMCA, all students are welcome to come and perform (all levels of Kungfu and all forms of Tai Chi).  We will be putting together a list of the routines we will perform, but ALL are welcome to come help celebrate the Chinese New Year and the Chinese Lantern Festival!

Check out this video of last year’s show! It was a great show, but I can promise this year will really be exceptional!

Student(s) of the Month – A family that kicks together, sticks together! She’s a natural leader. Always focused, and ready to assist. She might be helping someone on their first day of class, or leading a group of red sashes through long fist. He’s either spinning on his head or running across the gym for a full on, all out dive roll!  Coming in almost daily, often for back to back classes, they have put in the time. In addition, they’ve done it with enthusiasm. For your consistency and hard work Elaine and JJ Savaria have been chosen for be featured as February’s “Students of the Month”!

Shifu: “Why did you start Kungfu?” Elaine: I started Kungfu because my dad brought me and it looked cool. JJ: I started Kungfu because my dad took me and I liked it.

Shifu: “What is your favorite thing about Kungfu?” Elaine: My favorite thing about Kungfu is my friends at kungfu and doing forms. JJ: My favorite thing about Kungfu is dive rolls!

Shifu: “What are your goals in Kungfu for this coming year?” Elaine: My goal for the year is to get a butterfly kick. JJ: My goal for the year is to skip purple sash and get two.

Shifu: Do you have any advice for anyone looking to get better at Kungfu? Elaine: Lower stances, more power! JJ: Better focus.

Shifu: “What is your favorite food?” Elaine: My favorite food is pizza. My favorite food is french toast sticks.

Shifu: “What are your favorite marital arts movies?” Elaine: Kungfu Panda JJ: Kungfu Panda 3

Shifu: “When you guys fight at home is it like a kungfu movie scene with spears and swords?” Elaine: Yes. JJ: No.

Shifu: “When you’re not training at CMAA what do you like to do in your free time?” Elaine: In my free time I practice Kungfu. JJ: In my free time I play with my dog.

Shifu: “Anything else about yourself you’d like to share with everyone?” Elaine: I sing and dance to baby death metal. JJ: I like applesauce.

Well, thanks for sharing guys!  I am proud of your hard work and consistency.  Keep it up and you're on your way to finding out what being a martial arts master is all about!

CMAA Team Jackets and Hoodies For Sale We will be putting in an order for hooded sweatshirts February 15th ($35). Ask Shifu to see the sample! Place your order in 3 easy steps: 1. Choose your style (crew, hoodie, or full zip hoodie). 2. Choose your color. 3. Choose your size.

Star Wars Kungfu! Another awesome example of how spectacular Chinese Martial Arts are, especially with a little light saber action!

Summary As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Watch and Learn - Tai Chi

Watch and Learn, Tai Chi Documentaries! Did you ever wish you could just sit back, relax and learn Tai Chi from the comfort of your couch? Well, now you can! “But how much does it cost?” NOTHING! Thats right, you can learn more about Tai Chi, for FREE from the comfort of your own home:)

I wanted to share with you the best Tai Chi documentaries and shows which are all available for free on Youtube! So sit back, relax and learn about the history, culture and training of Chinese Tai Chi. Better yet, try watching 20 minutes a day of each documentary while stretching out! Learn Tai Chi and improve your flexibility at the same time.

Enjoy!

Monthly Newsletter - January

Monthly Newsletter – January Dear Friends,

Happy New Year!  Let’s work hard, have fun and make 2016 an amazing year. From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, you won’t want to miss out on the action!

School Closings CMAA Holiday Dinner Party Recap Sash Test Master Ching Yin-Lee (2 x USA National Team Member) Seminars Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program The Chinese Community Center Student(s) of the Month – A Family that Kicks Together, Sticks Together Two Paths are Really One: Martial Arts For Health or Fighting Black Belts Never Quit Stretch and Study CMAA Team Jackets and Hoodies For Sale Star Wars Kungfu The Lost Testament of Karate (Tai Chi)

School Closings

To accommodate our special guest instructor and a series of amazing seminars, all classes will be cancelled on Saturday, January 23^rd.  Please take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to train with a world class martial artist!

Additionally, with the winter weather looming, please stay tuned to inclement weather closings.  I will post school closings on the websites homepage.  However, it might not display on certain mobile devices which automatically default to the mobile site.  Please call (518) 755-7512 if you are not sure!

Holiday Dinner Party Recap

What a special get-together. With delicious food, good company and some fun games, it was a wonderful evening of eating, drinking and being merry.  Although not everyone could make it, it was wonderful to get our long time students together with the new generation just beginning at CMAA.  In the spirit of the holiday season, it was very special to spend our time together with our other family – the CMAA family.  I look forward to celebrating with you all again next year.

Kungfu Sash Test Please note that we will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, January 17th, at 10:30 am.

You know exactly what we will be testing but if you have any questions, check the Sash Requirements page on the website and feel free to clarify things with me during class. http://www.martialartsalbany.com/kungfu-sash-requirements/ 

If you are unsure whether or not you (or your child) are ready to test, please speak with me before or during class, via email at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or by phone (518) 755-7512.

Remember, you will not “get” your sash at CMAA – you will EARN it! There is a big difference. It’s important you (your child) learns the value of their sash- the value of hard work! Let’s stay focused and step up our training so we’re fully prepared for the test! White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold/Black: $75

Master Ching Yin Lee Seminars CMAA is proud to announce that GOSU Wushu head instructor Ching Yin Lee will be traveling to CMAA to offer several seminars.  With over 20 years of training, Ching Yin Lee is a 2 x USA National Wushu Team Member (2003-2005, 2005-2007), Pan-American Games Medalist, amateur kickboxer, and internal stylist.  Ching Yin Lee will be offering 4 unique seminars for all levels and interests!

Master Lee in Action!

Saturday, January 23^rd Tai Chi Fundamentals: 9:30-11:00 am, Cost: $30. With over 20 years of internal martial arts training including standing Qigong, Taiji, and Xingyi, Master Lee will be bringing a wide range of skills and knowledge to our Taiji and Qigong practitioners.  This seminar will focus on developing Taiji fundamentals of relaxation and body alignment through various standing and repetitive exercises.

Kungfu Foundation building and Individual Stylization : 11:15-12:30, Cost $25. Changquan (Northern Style Longfist) basics with individual style (flavor) and jump kicks.  This seminar is perfect for beginners, intermediate and advanced students looking to not only solidify their basics, but also learn how to stylize their movements to make their movements unique to their body types, skill sets and personality.  In addition, we will focus on skills and drills for jump kicks development!

Advanced Kungfu training, and competing: 12:30-2, Cost $30. Advanced individual Wushu forms coaching and the competitors approach to training.  This seminar will be geared toward advanced student’s ranked orange sash and higher.  Master Lee will correct student’s forms individually.  In addition, Master Lee will address the competitor’s mindset and approach to training and competing.

Sunday January 24^th, 10:30am- 12pm. Nanquan (Southern Tiger Crane Style) basics and combinations!  Cost $35. This seminar is perfect for intermediate students looking to explore southern as an option for when they earn their orange sashes, advanced students looking to sharpen their southern style fundamentals, and gold sashes who are looking for individual forms combinations and choreography!

Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program The Chinese Martial Arts Academy is proud to present the Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program.  Developing group management and interpersonal communication skills are the cornerstone of the programs agenda.  In addition, the study of learning theory and education play a pivotal role as the students become teachers and take theory to practice.

“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” – Theodore Roosevelt. To find out more about this program please come speak with Shifu about how to qualify for this select program!

The Chinese Community Center

Some of your children have shown great talent for the martial arts, others have shown great interest.  As a teacher, I assure you that your children have ALL shown great POTENTIAL!  I see a healthy, confident, and focused martial artist in each and every one of them.  Looking forward to an awesome 2016, year of the Monkey!

Student(s) of the Month – A family that kicks together, sticks together! Kamil, Adam and Lina.  Starting out as "average students" these three siblings have really stepped their training up a notch.  Coming in almost daily, often for back to back classes, they have put in the time.  In addition, they've done it with enthusiasm.  For your consistency and hard work the three of you have been chosen for be featured as January's "Students of the Month"!

Shifu: “Why did you start Kungfu?” A/K/L: We Started Kungfu becuase we wanted to learn how to defend ourselves and improve our strength. Shifu: “What is your favorite thing about Kungfu?” A/K/L: Our favorite thing about Kungfu is meeting with our friends, training and especially having fun! Shifu: “What are your goals in Kungfu for this coming year?” A/K/L: Our goals in Kungfu for this coming year is to do an aerial, a butterfly twist and a walkover and to improve our strength and flexibility :) Shifu: Do you have any advice for anyone looking to get better at Kungfu? A/K/L: Our advice for anyone looking to get better at Kungfu is: Never give up and always try your best! Shifu: “What is your favorite food?” A/K/L: Our favorite food is pizza, ice cream, pears and raspberries! Shifu: “What are your favorite marital arts movies?” A/K/L: Our favorite martial arts movie is Kungfu Panda. Shifu:  “When you guys fight at home is it like a kungfu movie scene with spears and swords?” A/K/L: When we fight at home its more like wrestling and pillow fighting:) Shifu: “When you’re not training at CMAA what do you like to do in your free time?" A/K/L: In our free time we like to read, play board games, wall ball and play games on our iPad. Shifu: “Anything else about yourself you’d like to share with everyone?” A/K/L: We hope everybody will achieve their goals and have a great year.

At this rate the sky is the limit.  Stay the course, and I know you three will accomplish great things in Kungfu! Look forward to seeing you all soon.

 

Two Paths are Really Just One: Martial Arts for Fighting and Health.  Today, the vast majority of students who study martial arts have no desire to be “fighters”. Many may want to learn “self defense” but in reality, the major benefit of martial arts today is learning proper movement and the improvement of health. From the Yang family’s evolution of Chen family fighting art to public health method, to Swedish fencer Pehr Henrik Ling’s “Swedish gymnastics”, to Judoka Moshé Feldenkrais’ healing movement method; there seems to be a natural evolution to find from combat method a form of healing and corrective movement.

Read more here: https://nysanda.wordpress.com/2015/12/15/two-paths-are-really-just-one/ Black Belts Never Quit A black belt is just a white belt who never quit.  All the reasons you should keep going! (… even when you want to quit, sometimes). 1.  Learn what it really means to be a martial arts master.  You won’t ever know if you quit now. 2.  All your friends at practice miss you when you’re not there. 3.  Sometimes you’re teammates are having a tough time in training and they could really use your motivation and support!  Every practice you miss might have been one that a teammate needed you. Find out all the other reasons here! http://www.martialartsalbany.com/never-quit/

Stretch and Study Did you ever wish you could just sit back, relax and learn Kungfu from the comfort of your couch? Well, now you can! “But how much does it cost?” NOTHING! That’s right, you can learn more about Kungfu, for FREE from the comfort of your own home:) With all the Holidays coming up (and probably a few snow days) you might be finding yourself spending a little more time at home.  Check out this link to find some awesome documentaries on the tradition, techniques and history of Chinese martial arts! http://www.martialartsalbany.com/807/

CMAA Team Jackets and Hoodies For Sale Please ask about our various styles of CMAA Team Jackets.  We have the windbreaker warm up, the soft warm up and coming soon - the hoodie!  Jackets are $65, and we will be putting in an order for hooded sweatshirts toward the end of the month ($35).  Ask Shifu to see the sample!  You can order in any color!

Star Wars Kungfu! For you star wars and martial arts fans - check this out!

The Lost Testament of Karate (Excerpt) 

Tai Chi comes from Wu Chi and is the mother of yin and yang. In motion, Tai Chi separates; in stillness yin and yang fuse and return to Wu Chi. It is not excessive or deficient; it follows a bending, adheres to an extension. When the opponent is hard and I am soft, it is called tsou [yielding]. When I follow the opponent and he becomes backed up, it is called nian [sticking]. If the opponent’s movement is quick, then quickly respond; if his movement is slow, then follow slowly. Although there are innumerable variations, the principles that pervade them remain the same. From familiarity with the correct touch, one gradually comprehends chin [intrinsic strength]; from the comprehension of chin, one can reach wisdom. Without long practice, one cannot suddenly understand Tai Chi. Effortlessly the chin reaches the head top. Let the chi [vital life energy] sink to the tan-tien [field of elixir]. Don’t lean in any direction; suddenly appear, suddenly disappear. Empty the left wherever a pressure appears, and similarly the right. If the opponent raises up, I seem taller; if he sinks down, then I seem lower; advancing, he finds the distance seems incredibly long; retreating, the distance seems exasperatingly short. A feather cannot be placed, and a fly cannot alight on any part of the body. The opponent does not know me; I alone know him. To become a peerless boxer results from this. There are many boxing arts. Although they use different forms, for the most part they don’t go beyond the strong dominating the weak, and the slow resigning to the swift. The strong defeating the weak and the slow hands ceding to the swift hands are all the results of natural abilities and not of well-trained techniques. From the sentence ‘A force of four ounces deflects a thousand pounds’, we know that the technique is not accomplished with strength. The spectacle of an old person defeating a group of young people, how can it be due to swiftness? Stand like a perfectly balanced scale and move like a turning wheel. Sinking to one side allows movement to flow; being double-weighted is sluggish. Anyone who has spent years of practice and still cannot neutralize, and is always controlled by his opponent, has not apprehended the fault of double-weightedness. To avoid this fault one must distinguish yin from yang. To adhere means to yield. To yield means to adhere. Within yin there is yang. Within yang there is yin. Yin and yang mutually aid and change each other. Understanding this you can say you understand chin. After you understand chin, the more you practice, the more skill. Silently treasure knowledge and turn it over in the mind. Gradually you can do as you like. Fundamentally, it is giving up yourself to follow others. Most people mistakenly give up the near to seek the far. It is said, ‘Missing it by a little will lead many miles astray.’ The practitioner must carefully study. This is the Treatise

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Monthly Newsletter - December

Monthly Newsletter – December Dear Friends,

From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, you won’t want to miss out on the action!

School Closings CMAA Holiday Dinner Party Sash Test Master Ching Yin-Lee (2 x USA National Team Member) Seminars Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program Student of the Month – Kyler "The Tiger" Pang Black Belts Don’t Quit Stretch and Study Self-Defense Seminar Recap

School Closings CMAA will be closed December 23rd-26th, and again for New Year's Day Friday January 1st.

Additionally, with the winter weather looming, please stay tuned to inclement weather closings.  I will post school closings on the websites homepage.  However, it might not display on certain mobile devices which automatically default to the mobile site.  Please call (518) 755-7512 if you are not sure!

Holiday Dinner Party Don’t miss out on the FUN and join us at the BEST Chinese restaurant in the Capital District for our annual holiday dinner party!

With all the holidays and family get-togethers this time of year, we would like to organize a time for the CMAA family to be together outside the school. Please join us for a holiday dinner celebration!

Date: Sunday, Dec. 20th! Time: 3pm-6pm Location: Ala Shanghai, 468 Troy Schenectady Rd, Latham, NY 12110 Please reserve your spot ASAP as space is limited!  The cost is $15/kids (12 and under) and $20/Adults.  Please pay in advance by check or cash at the school as we have reserved the restaurant for our group. Deadline: Please register ASAP as the party size is limited and we expect to reach capacity!

Kungfu Sash Test Please note that we will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, January 17th, at 10:30 am.

You know exactly what we will be testing but if you have any questions, check the Sash Requirements page on the website and feel free to clarify things with me during class. http://www.martialartsalbany.com/kungfu-sash-requirements/ 

If you are unsure whether or not you (or your child) are ready to test, please speak with me before or during class, via email at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or by phone (518) 755-7512. Remember, you will not “get” your sash at CMAA – you will EARN it! There is a big difference. It’s important you (your child) learns the value of their sash- the value of hard work! Let’s stay focused and step up our training so we’re fully prepared for the test!

White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold: $75

Master Ching Yin Lee Seminars CMAA is proud to announce that GOSU Wushu head instructor Ching Yin Lee will be traveling to CMAA to offer several seminars.  With over 20 years of training, Ching Yin Lee is a 2 x USA National Wushu Team Member (2003-2005, 2005-2007), Pan-American Games Competitor, amateur kickboxer, and internal stylist.  Ching Yin Lee will be offering 4 unique seminars for all levels and interests!

Master Lee in Action!

Saturday, January 23^rd

Tai Chi Fundamentals: 9:30-11:00 am, Cost: $30. With over 20 years of internal martial arts training including standing Qigong, Taiji, and Xingyi, Master Lee will be bringing a wide range of skills and knowledge to our Taiji and Qigong practitioners.  This seminar will focus on developing Taiji fundamentals of relaxation and body alignment through various standing and repetitive exercises.  

Kungfu Foundation building and Individual Stylization : 11:15-12:30, Cost $25. Changquan (Northern Style Longfist) basics with individual style (flavor) and jump kicks.  This seminar is perfect for beginners, intermediate and advanced students looking to not only solidify their basics, but also learn how to stylize their movements to make their movements unique to their body types, skill sets and personality.  In addition, we will focus on skills and drills for jump kicks development!

Advanced Kungfu training, and competing: 12:30-2, Cost $30. Advanced individual Wushu forms coaching and the competitors approach to training.  This seminar will be geared toward advanced student’s ranked orange sash and higher.  Master Lee will correct student’s forms individually.  In addition, Master Lee will address the competitor’s mindset and approach to training and competing. 

Sunday January 24^th, 10:30am- 12pm. Nanquan (Southern Tiger Crane Style) basics and combinations!  Cost $35. This seminar is perfect for intermediate students looking to explore southern as an option for when they earn their orange sashes, advanced students looking to sharpen their southern style fundamentals, and gold sashes who are looking for individual forms combinations and choreography!

 

Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program The Chinese Martial Arts Academy is proud to present the Junior Instructor Leadership and Teaching Program.  Developing group management and interpersonal communication skills are the cornerstone of the programs agenda.  In addition, the study of learning theory and education play a pivotal role as the students become teachers and take theory to practice.

“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” - Theodore Roosevelt.

To find out more about this program please come speak with Shifu about how to qualify for this select program!

Student of the Month – Kyler Pang Before CMAA ever opened, and before we had any kids learning Kungfu, I started a class at the Chinese Community Center.  One of my students had just turned 5 years old.  I instantly recognized this young student’s special potential.  He was light, flexible, coordinated and quick- the unique pairing ideal for practicing Longfist Kungfu.  He hasn’t always been the most focused in class, but I always encouraged him (and his parents) to stay involved in Kungfu, because I felt it was just a matter of time before he realized just how good he could be. In fact, for years it has actually been his older sister Cindy who has shown (and still shines) in the martial arts spotlight!  However, fast forward 4 years later and that student, Kyler Pang, is now hitting his stride.  He has been consistently working hard, working new advanced kungfu routines, and relentlessly attacking his aerials and butterfly twists!  Those years of foundation building are just now really paying off.  Let’s take the time to learn more about one of our youngest advanced students!

Shifu: What’s your favorite part of training? Kyler: My favorite part of training is the basics -- butterfly kicks, tornado kicks, and cartwheel 's aerials.

Shifu: I’ve always told you how good you could be if you pushed yourself. You’ve really turned it up in training the last few months.  What’s been motivating you to work so hard? Kyler: Because I set up a few goals I want to conquer and I want to win a few tournaments.

Shifu: Did you ever think I am particularly strict with you?  Why do you think that is? Kyler: Yes I did think you are strict and I think that is because you want me to get better.

Shifu: From the quality of your movements, to staff and jump kicks, you’ve made a lot of progress recently.  What are your goals for Kungfu for the year of 2016? Kyler:  1) Land at least one aerial twist; 2) get higher jumps; 3) and get more flexible.

Shifu: If you could give any advice to someone who’s interested in martial arts, what would it be? Kyler: My advice would be what you've said " A black belt was the white belt who never quit". Shifu: What’s it like having martial artist and super student Cindy as a big sister? Kyler:  It is pretty nice even though Cindy is sometimes annoying for budging in to every conversation.

Shifu: What are some of your favorite activities outside of Kungfu? Kyler: Some activities I like are: sports, and reading humor or comic books. Shifu: You’ve traveled to a lot of cool places.  What were your favorite places and why!? Kyler: My favorite place is China because it is my parents home country.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Kyler.  You've worked hard, and now the years are starting to add up.  You are without a doubt on your way to understanding Kungfu the way most only dream about.  Keep up the hard work.  CMAA, Shifu and your kungfu brothers and sisters will be here to help you achieve your martial arts goals! Never Quit

All the reasons you should keep going! (… even when you want to quit, sometimes).

1.  Learn what it really means to be a martial arts master.  You won’t ever know if you quit now.

2.  All your friends at practice miss you when you’re not there.

3.  Sometimes you’re teammates are having a tough time in training and they could really use your motivation and support!  Every practice you miss might have been one that a teammate needed you.

Find out all the other reasons here! http://www.martialartsalbany.com/never-quit/

Stretch and Study Did you ever wish you could just sit back, relax and learn Kungfu from the comfort of your couch? Well, now you can! “But how much does it cost?” NOTHING! That’s right, you can learn more about Kungfu, for FREE from the comfort of your own home:) With all the Holidays coming up (and probably a few snow days) you might be finding yourself spending a little more time at home.  Check out this link to find some awesome documentaries on the tradition, techniques and history of Chinese martial arts!

http://www.martialartsalbany.com/807/

Self-Defense Seminar Recap Lot’s of Fun and Fighting!  Covering basic self-defense techniques from hand, elbow and knee strikes, to wrist grabs, chokes and guard escapes we packed lots of practical movements in to a single seminar.  In addition to basic movements that are practical and easy to learn and execute, I hope our women realize just how powerful they are and carry themselves with great confidence.

As a follow up to a the very practical “hands on” seminar, I did write a follow up post about the single element I feel is most important to preempt and prevent women from finding themselves in compromising or dangerous situations! Read more here: http://www.martialartsalbany.com/womens-self-defense-and-awareness/

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Women's Self Defense and AWARENESS

Awareness, Awareness, Awareness. Awareness is the key to protecting yourself.  However, as it’s all encompassing it seems impossible.  In the real world we are constantly multi-tasking.  Driving while drinking coffee, listening to the radio, and thinking about all the errands we need to run during our lunch break.  The reality is that we can not be 100% aware 100% of the time.  This would be is impossible.  However, this doesn’t mean that awareness is not the answer.  It means we must develop situational awareness.  Situational awareness are guidelines for when and how to use awareness.

Real Life Self Defense

Real life altercations can come in a variety of scenarios.  For example, if we were to imagine two very real, yet very different types of situations we might address the street fight and premeditated predator-victim assault.

The street fight is something we might imagine as a couple of drunk guys, who get in a heated shouting match after a watching a football game at a bar.  There’s some chest bumping and ego’s are at stake.  Things escalate until the confrontation becomes physical.  Usually one guy shoves the other, someone takes a swing and they end up wrestling on the ground until their friends, bouncers or cops come to pull them apart.

The second is a premeditated predator/victim assault.  Meaning, the individual committing the act/assault/crime is planning their attack in advance.  They want the women’s money or something worse.  Like a Jackal in the wild looking to prey on a young fawn, they are looking for the easiest target possible.  They do not want resistance and they do not want to be caught.  Your situation is unique and understanding this is crucial.  I hope you learned specific techniques that will help you should a situation become physical.  However, my goal is to help you understand situational awareness so that you can prevent yourself from being recognized as prey to a predator.

Triangle of Victimization

The triangle itself is the assault or crime.  You need three things to completely form this triangle.  For the crime to happen you need a predator, an (unassuming) victim and the opportunity.  To prevent an assault from taking place, you must be 100% committed to making sure the triangle is never completed.  We will assume that there is a predator.  You must prevent the opportunity or not be an "unassuming victim".  You may be a target but you are a SUSPECTING target, not an unsuspecting target.  There is a difference!

This means, that you’re awareness must increase as you recognize the triangle being formed.  This means, if you are in the supermarket and there’s many people around you and no one who seems particularly suspicious, you can allow that awareness the decrease.  If you then go outside to walk to your car at night, you recognize the opportunity and your awareness increases.  In your heightened state of awareness, you suddenly sense the presence of someone following you and recognize the possibility that this is a potential assailant.  Now you’re awareness increases to the next level and because you TRUST your INSTICTS and you are prepared to ACT.  Your awareness put’s one step ahead of where the possible assailant expects you to be!

While you do not wish to escalate the situation, you must face the situation head on.  You must take action.  This be as simple as as walking across the street to where is maybe a better lit path or other bystanders.  You may need to become verbally assertive and say, “I see you.  Do not come any closer to me!” (you might practice saying this from time to time when you’re alone in your car), while becoming physically asserting and posturing in a more athletic/aggressive fashion.  This may also mean yelling for help and running.  You might prepare to access your pepper spray or your concealed carry weapon.  You can not worry about being politically correct, or offending someone by accident.  You must act.  What is the right thing to do?  Well, you will use your judgement to pursue the best course of action, but you must know that anything you do is better than doing nothing!

Once the predator realizes you are not going to be an easy target, and that if they pursue further action, at the very least you can positively identify them as the culprit, they will most likely reassess the situation and look for an easier target.  Cowards do not want confrontation.

Summary You can learn martial arts techniques, or plan to carry a concealed weapon.  Either might save your life.  However, what is a more important precursor than either of these tools/skill sets, is a prepared mindset geared toward situational awareness and preventing the triangle of victimization from being completed.

Thank You

Shifu Lucas Geller

(This is 100% paraphrased from The Gracie Academy Women’s Empowerment Curriculum.  Thank you Rener Gracie and Eves Torres for your amazing and thoughtful insight!)

Monthly Newsletter - November

Monthly Newsletter – November Dear Friends,

From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, you won’t want to miss out on the action!

School Closings Women’s Self Defense Seminar Homeschooled Families- Daytime Kungfu Class! CMAA Holiday Party Jiang Shifu’s Bday Celebration

Festival of National Kungfu Performance CMAA Selfies :) Halloween at CMAA Kungfu Masters Can Fly

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

School Closings Please note that we will be closed Thursday through Saturday (26th-28th) for Thanksgiving!  Enjoy your family time and travel safely! Women’s Self Defense Seminar

We are a go for the Women’s Self Defense Seminar this weekend! We look forward to seeing you for an exciting day of action.  If you are interested in attending a course in the future, please let us know so we can begin planning for a follow up seminar and make sure your spot is reserved.

Ladies take the time to learn how to protect and empower yourself by taking a women’s self-defense class. You will be shocked with what you are capable of doing. And I guarantee you that you will find a whole new strength and outlook that will improve your life.

I offer you a wealth of information and invaluable tools that can help you build the awareness and the confidence needed in todays’ world. You will learn practical defense against the most common strikes, grabs, and chokes. You will also learn how to strike back utilizing your voice, elbows, knees, foot stomp, eye gouging, and kicking.

Remember life is precious and you plan on going home, whatever it takes.

Sifu Steve Juman JKD instructor

Get all the seminar information and the top FIVE reasons for attending a women self-defense seminar here!

http://www.martialartsalbany.com/womens-self-defense/

Daytime Kungfu Class for Homeschooled Families CMAA would like to offer a daytime martial arts class for home schooled kids.  We are curious to know how to reach out to that community. If you have any information about how I might go about reaching out to these kids (and their families) please let me know!

CMAA Holiday Dinner Party With all the holidays and family get togethers this time of year, we would like to organize a time for the CMAA family to be together outside the school. Please join us for a holiday dinner celebration!

Date: Sunday, Dec. 20th! Time: 3pm-6pm Location: Ala Shanghai, 468 Troy Schenectady Rd, Latham, NY 12110 Please reserve your spot ASAP as space is limited!  The cost is $15/kids (12 and under) and $20/Adults.  Please pay in advance by check or cash at the school as we have reserved the restaurant for our group. Deadline: Please register ASAP as the party size is limited and we expect to reach capacity!

Kungfu Sash Test So many great things in this quarter’s Kungfu sash test. In this test we had new students like Alex, Aerial and Clifford just EXCELLING in basics and 5 stance. I was also proud to see JJ returning to Kungfu after taking a break and refocus on making great progress. We also had the largest group of students to date transitioning to blue sash and beginning their intermediate staff routines which is very exciting. On top of which, I was very excited to see advanced student Scott Beiter, who after over 15 years in Kungfu is still making great strides in his wushu and performing better than ever. Excellent job EVERYONE, you are doing great!

Grandmaster Jiang’s Bday Celebration In October we had the chance to celebrate the man who started it all. Happy Birthday Grandmaster Jiang Jian Ye. Thank you for the many years of quality martial arts instruction and positive energy you bring to the world. CMAA Selfies Guess this is what you find on your Ipad when the kids figure out the password… LOL!

Festival of Nations Wow, I couldn’t be more proud of TEAM CMAA! They really stepped it up a level and took their performance to a new level. Though with only one demo practice to prepare, these guys really pulled off something special. Compare their performance to the year before and see just how far they’ve come. Can’t wait to see what they can do come Chinese New Year. I expect something entirely new and exciting!

Just as a comparison, you can see just how much they’ve improved since just one year ago!

Halloween at CMAA With vampires, bats, a prisoner and many ninjas- CMAA had a great turnout on Saturday for Halloween training! Most students chose not to wear a costume but everyone came ready for a typical day at CMAA, full of work and play!

Kungfu Masters Can Fly Summary Watching kungfu movies its common to see the hero’s flipping around, running up walls and across rooftops. In fact, there’s an entire skillset in kungfu devoted to what is known as “Qing Gong” or “Light Skills”. Maybe you’ve seen some real life variations of this art in a Jackie Chan movie, as Jackie is famous for performing his own stunts! Well, it’s not just for martial artists. Watch as these young kids take this skillset to new “heights”!

What’s the origin of all this? My guess is extreme sports enthusiasts drawing inspiration from Chinese martial arts like these!

Mini CMAA Kids Kungfu Commercial Just playing around with windows movie maker for fun. Enjoy!

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Monthly Newsletter - October

Dear Friends, From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and other activities, you won’t want to miss out on the action!

School Closings Women’s Self Defense Seminar Kungfu Sash Test Kungfu Competition Festival of National Kungfu Performace Old School Kungfu Inspiration Martial Arts – The Journey Halloween at CMAA Yang 24 Tai Chi In Action

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

School Closings All classes will be held as regularly scheduled.

Women’s Self Defense Seminar

Ladies take the time to learn how to protect and empower yourself by taking a women’s self defense class. You will be shocked with what you are capable of doing. And I guarantee you that you will find a whole new strength and outlook that will improve your life.

I offer you a wealth of information and invaluable tools that can help you build the awareness and the confidence needed in todays’ world. You will learn practical defense against the most common strikes, grabs, and chokes. You will also learn how to strike back utilizing your voice, elbows, knees, foot stomp, eye gouging, and kicking.

Remember life is precious and you plan on going home, what ever it takes.

Sifu Steve Juman JKD instructor

Get all the seminar information and the top FIVE reasons for attending a women self defense seminar here!  In addition, please sign up ASAP as spaces are limited and we are expecting it to fill up quickly. http://www.martialartsalbany.com/womens-self-defense/

Kungfu Sash Test Please note that we will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, October 4th at 10:00 am.

You know exactly what we will be testing but if you have any questions, check the Sash Requirements page on the website and feel free to clarify things with me during class.http://www.martialartsalbany.com/kungfu-sash-requirements/

If you are unsure whether or not you (or your child) are ready to test, please speak with me before or during class, via email at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or by phone (518) 755-7512. Remember, you will not “get” your sash at CMAA – you will EARN it! There is a big difference. It’s important you (your child) learns the value of their sash- the value of hard work! Let’s stay focused and step up our training so we’re fully prepared for the test!

White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold: $75

Kungfu Competition: International Chinese Marital Arts Championship If you are interested in competing, this is a great opportunity. CMAA will be organizing a competition team to participate in the 5th Annual “New England” Kung Fu – Wushu Championship. This year’s competition will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2015 at the Fore Kicks Sports Complex in Marlborough, MA. (aprox. 30 minutes outside of Boston). Yellow sashes and above are encouraged to compete. Everyone is welcome to come and support your team!

Just like sash tests, the true value of competition is still self-improvement. All the fun and team bonding is just a nice extra!

For more information please visit the website here: http://www.kungfuchampionship.com/boston/

For registration forms please follow this link: http://www.kungfuchampionship.com/boston/registration.html

Festival of Nations Come have fun and support your team as a group of your classmates perform at the Festival of Nations. Our group is scheduled to perform around 12pm on Sunday, 10/25. More info here:http://festivalofnations.net/

Old School Kungfu Inspiration! I occasionally come across these two video clips of Wushu Kungfu from the 80’s and although times have changed and Kungfu styles has adapted to new competition rules, the older style is still amazing to watch!

Old School Kungfu in a Movie

Old School Kungfu in Competition

Martial Arts – The Journey Martial arts are a vehicle for individual expression and development. While its study can be fun and exciting, it requires long term motivation, dedication and discipline.  I agree with lots of things this guy has to say about the process.

Halloween at CMAA Don’t forget to come in costume! Check out some of the silliness from last year!

Yang 24 Tai Chi in Action

Many interesting applications for the various postures, transitions and concepts from the 24!

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best, Shifu

Women's Self Defense

Women's Self Defense!

Ladies take the time to learn how to protect and empower yourself by taking a women's self defense class. You will be shocked with what you are capable of doing. And I guarantee you that you will find a whole new strength and outlook that will improve your life.

I offer you a wealth of information and invaluable tools that can help you build the awareness and the confidence needed in todays’ world. You will learn practical defense against the most common strikes, grabs, and chokes. You will also learn how to strike back utilizing your voice, elbows, knees, foot stomp, eye gouging, and kicking.

Remember life is precious and you plan on going home, what ever it takes.

Sifu Steve Juman JKD instructor

When: Sunday Nov. 8th, 10 am-12 pm. Who: Every Woman.  (CMAA students, friends, family, and any other Woman interested in protecting themselves.) Cost: $35 (Class sizes min. 4- max 12).  

Self-defense for women has always been a serous topic that needs to be made aware to women of all ages. Here are five reasons for attending a women self defense seminar.

1) Crime can happen to anyone at anytime. We do not live in a fantasy world and unfortunately,  this is the harsh reality. As a woman, at some point in your life you will flash across a predator's (mainly male) radar as prey. The question is what will you do?

2) Be the role model for the next generation. We tell our daughters they can be anything they want. How about safe? How do we show them how to protect themselves against rape, assault, domestic violence, etc, if you don't set the example of being strong and standing up for yourselves by being able to defend yourselves - emotionally, verbally, and physically?

3) Become Educated.  A self-defense course can educate and empower you! We can show you the options you have to take control of your life and stay safe.

4) This is true LIFE Insurance. We spend money to ensure our cars, our life, our jewelry, disability insurance, travel insurance, our rental property, etc., but yet we hesitate when spending money on a self defense class that can truly SAVE our lives. Women's self-defense classes have an incredible positive impact on their participants and greatly change lives for the better. Self-defense classes provide you with real insurance to protect your life.

5) Do it for those who count on you. Life is precious and family is important. Do it for those who count on you the most!

Ladies take the time to learn how to protect and empower yourself by taking a women's self defense class. You will be shocked with what you are capable of doing. And I guarantee you that you will find a whole new strength and outlook that will improve your life.

I offer you a wealth of information and invaluable tools that can help you build the awareness and the confidence needed in todays’ world. You will learn practical defense against the most common strikes, grabs, and chokes. You will also learn how to strike back utilizing your voice, elbows, knees, foot stomp, eye gouging, and kicking.

Remember life is precious and you plan on going home. What ever it takes.

Sifu Steve Juman

JKD instructor