My Shaolin Kung-fu Training Journal -- Alex Baranosky

[AlexBaranosky]

Hello,

I just returned from the UK Summer Camp where I learned the Drunken Eight Immortals set. It was crazy. I feel almost like a total beginner again with these techniques. I'm still digesting this course, and figuring out how I should train the material.

...

[AlexBaranosky]

Kung-fu-ing

Some thoughts on the Drunken Eight Immortals and my kung-fu training after the course.

Firstly, I'm in the process of codifying some of the applications and more interesting to me I am codifying some of the strategies of the Drunken Eight Immortals set into sequences that I will practice with my training partner, Matt Fenton. So far I only have one sequence, but there's not really a rush.

Matt and I met up yesterday and spent time on some of the Chin-na Sequences (three to be precise: Single Tiger, Golden Dragon Shoots Tongue, & Bar the Big Boss). More training need. Check back in 5 years Seriously though, the sequences really are great in that there are so many more skills in them to work on, and difference forces I need to improve (mainly tiger claw force). The gap in ability really gives me something to focus my efforts, if that makes sense.

Next time we train I think that we will add Catch a Tiger in Mountain sequence to the mix. I have really grown fond of patterns that are kneeling, for some reason. I think it is because there was a time when I was horrific at them, so they remind me of my improvement. They also remind me of how much stronger my body has become from my training, and I am very appreciative of that.

One practical issue I've been having is that I get so hot when practicing that the floor gets slippery with sweat after doing the Drunken Eight Immortals set, from all of the rolling. I think I honestly may need to put on a long sleeve shirt when I do the set, so that it doesn't make my practice space dangerously slippery...

I'm a bit bummed I missed the Ten Tigers Tournament this year. I was so close, being in the UK, but it just wasn't possible for me. I wonder how well I might have done -- it certainly would have been a blast. I am thinking towards next year's tournament, focusing on how I can get better for it. Actually, Matt Fenton and I spent some time sparring this weekend, within a purposely limited space, sort of the way they do in the tournament. It had a nice feel to it, because you couldn't just continually back up on defense; you really had to make excellent use of the space. I recommend people give it a try, it was really cool. I also think there are a whole series of strategies that evolve out of the limited space. For example, if you apply a (perhaps chin-na) technique that necessitates that the opponent moves to a spot that is out of bounds, then you make it much more difficult for him or her to counter it.

Sounds like those who went to the Mountain Retreat with Sihing Kai had a treat. I would have really loved to be there. I love the Four Gates set! So simple and direct (and of course effective.)

Best,
Alex

[mping]

Hey there, I was hoping that you would enter the tournament. I asked around and they told me you left the night before I arrived :\ Anyway, I hope you enjoyed your stay in Europe, I'm sure we'll have another chance to meet

All the best

[AlexBaranosky]

Hi Miguel,

Long time no chat. I must I have just missed you in England. I saw your videos, you competed well! Maybe we will meet at next year's tournament.

[AlexBaranosky]

I had an exceptionally pleasant kungfu training session last night, doing Horse Stance and One Finger Shooting Zen, the Four Gates set, the Pakua Set, Drunken Immortals set, as well as working on the four sequences I've (so far) come up with out of the Drunken Eight Immortals material and the 3 Chin-na sequences I've started learning. I can see how these sequences are going to add another dimension to my application ability - so wonderful!

My force training felt very very nice: solid and light, heavy and fast, focused yet joyful, fierce yet peaceful.

Thank you Sifu!

[AlexBaranosky]

So far I've come up with four sequences to practice my Drunken Techniques.

I am trying to create a fifth sequence around the combo of Drunken Groping -> Imperial Uncle Clips Clappers: dei062.avi (accessible only if you have the password, I'm afraid). I am not sure what a good counter for the throw is. Do any of you all have a suggestion for what the person being felled should do to counter Clips Clappers?

Right now the sequence looks like:

Initiator: Offer Wine in Bow and Arrow stance

Responder: Right Drunken Grope, Imperial Uncle Clips Clappers,

Initiator: ???

Best,
Alex