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Jade Dragon is a Chinese internal system of martial arts and qigong. For thousands of years the Chinese have been researching ways to develop the mind, body and spirit through the use of fighting skills, postures, movements and meditations.
The study of a good martial arts system is very rewarding. It teaches good physical and mental discipline, strength, balance, co-ordination and flexibility of both mind and body. It's fun to learn and helps develop self confidence and self control. Practicing a martial art is like playing chess at high speed. Thinking about tactics and strategies and working out your opponents moves while performing intricate patterns of movements and trying to keep the mind calm and the spirit tranquil. It can take a lifetime to master one art but it will be a life that has been lived fully.
In China the study of kung fu is not seen as a sport or a hobby but as a whole way of life. The lucky few who have access to a genuine master have the opportunity to dedicate their life to the perfection of an ancient art form and in doing so get as close as they could ever be to perfecting themself. Here in the West the martial arts are usually only seen as entertainment on TV or as sports that one can compete in. Westerners are far more impatient than Orientals and expect results much faster. This is part of the reason why the combat sports are so popular. It is easier and faster to learn a few techniques and perform them well in competition than it is to learn a complex art form that can take decades to master.
Jade Dragon Kung Fu is not a combat sport - we don't compete so there are no rules to fall foul of or illegal moves that you cannot learn. Many combat sports have been seriously watered down to prevent injuries in the ring. Jade Dragon is a genuine and ancient warrior art. It is a comprehensive and versatile system of fighting styles combined with skills of meditation and metaphysical exercise.
Many of the movements are based on animals - snake, eagle, mantis, monkey, tiger, dragon, crane and leopard. The movements don't just give the physical impression of the animal but also seem to allow the practitioner to get into the mindset of the animal, the way it reacts to threats, stalks its prey etc.
The student will start to learn the basics of how to stand, move, block and punch using the principles of tai chi. Locks and holds are included almost from the first lesson as they are so useful in self defence situations. The use of kicks, throws, pressure points and other techniques are gradually introduced as the student develops the necessary co-ordination, flexibility and strength. The use of a 6ft staff is also useful early on to develop strength, efficiency of movement and co-ordination.
Jade Dragon kung fu training requires a long time to learn. Don't expect results overnight (although you can expect to learn fascinating things from the first lesson) but gradually as you slowly develop the moves and techniques you will find some remarkable and often unexpectedly beneficial changes happening to you.