3 STAGES OF TRAINING

APPLIED SHAOLIN CONCEPTS

1. In the first stage, the practitioner performs the whole form slowly, mimicking tai chi or moving meditation. The slow and soft movements massage the organs and lead to health and longevity. The martial artist also learns the essence of each animal by moving slowly and methodically. Breathing is deep and from the abdomen to improve the circulatory system and build the practitioner's qi.

2. The second stage of training is practiced with external power. The emphasis is on conditioning the bones, tendons and muscles, while developing speed and power. This type of training helps the practitioner build strong stances while increasing stamina and external strength. The five animal practitioner puts all their skills together in the third stage of training. The emphasis is on the spirit and strengths of each animal-both internal and external energy are intertwined to give each animal life within the form.

3. At the third stage of training, the snake and crane forms are performed with relaxation and soft or internal energy until explosive power is released at the moment of impact. The tiger and leopard forms produce devastating, lethal attacks that are also performed with relaxation, yet quick and powerful external energy. The dragon form combines both internal and external movements to deliver powerful techniques.