Fu Chen Feng

Once we have a weapon in our hands, we tend to forget that we are still doing tai chi…

The weapon of course adds a whole new dimension to our practice and, as in all tai chi forms, we must adjust our thinking to accommodate and incorporate the concepts involved.

The Fu Chen, in its very form, is clearly a physical example of the yin yang theory. The turned timber handle represents the strength of yang energy while the soft flowing horsetail gives us the yin. Using the handle to block and strike, the other end is a distracting defence but look out for the sting in that tail! So the energies swap and change: gently twirl the handle to create a sharp flick of the tail; let the tail follow as the handle strikes a sideways blow…

Experimenting with these concepts while practicing the form is very interesting. Play with each movement – first as you were taught but then alter your speed, change the application from striking with the handle to striking with the tail. Note how these changes alter the flow and feeling of your form.

The Fu Chen is a connection between Tai Chi and Kung Fu. We have the opportunity with this weapon to vary our speed in performing each move; creating an exciting flow of hard, soft, fast and slow. Always direct your form back by the movement of the Dan Tien, but now and then we can have a little fun, too!

RMTC is honoured to have Master Su Legato return to Mornington to teach the Fu Chen. Classes run weekly, on a Friday, beginning on 6th February. There are 8 sessions in Term 1, $240. Classes are from 2:30 - 4:30 and are suitable for Beginner/Intermediate students. If you would like to learn the Fu Chen Feng form, click here.