Events menu
9:00am - 12:00pm
This workshop will provide an excellent opportunity for students to work intensively on the slow form, which is the basis of all tai chi and will focus on Cheng Man Ching's 37-posture form.
NB: the workshop is open to all students, whatever their level of experience and is especially appropriate for students at Level 1 & 2:
Level 1 students - are mainly concerned with the outline of the form, and the choreography of the movements themselves.
Level 2 students - know the basic shape of the sequence, and are beginning to explore the internal principles within the form.
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16
0EL
Click here for a map
£20 (£15 Members booked in advance)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood,
Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
4:00pm - 7:00pm
This two man sequence could be described as "applications in action" and is extremely valuable in guiding the student to a deeper understanding of the applications and principles of the empty hand form.
You will learn, with the aid of your partner, how to guide forces without going "force against force", the necessity for flexible footwork and the importance of ranges. The study of San Shou is particularly appropriate to those wishing to improve their understanding of the practice of "pushing hands" (tui shou).
This workshop is designed to provide the opportunity to learn
and practice the two man form and its applications.
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16
0EL
Click here for a map
£20 (£15 Members booked in advance)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood,
Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
10:00am - 5:00pm both days
This cane form introduced to Europe by Nigel in 1988 also known as Tai Ji Cane has "evolved" somewhat as it has been disseminated throughout Europe. Now is your chance to learn the "original" form with the "genuine" applications.
Forget "Farmer Frank" and the stories of this weapon as some kind
of sheep-taming, furniture-removing, hooligan-hammering wonder weapon and
instead learn of its origins in Shandong Province, China. Learn the genuine
lineage from Master Yang Ching Feng to Master Liang He Qing and thence to
Master Liu Jing Hong who adapted the techniques and modified the form to
develop Tai Ji Cane.
Learn directly from Nigel Sutton who learnt directly from both Master Liang
He Qing and Master Liu Jing Hong and was the first non-Chinese authorized
to teach this weapon.
This is an opportunity not to be missed.
Devon
Saturday 1:00pm - 5:30pm
Sunday 10:00am - 4:00pm
Through hundreds of years of Chinese history, the Jian has featured prominently as a symbol of office and position for scholars and the gentry, as well as a magic instrument for China's Daoist magicians and exorcists.
Study of the straight sword develops and enhances the exponent's agility, sensitivity and ability to use flexible footwork, all of which are vital to the taijiquan practitioner's overall development.
The form presented on this weekend seminar is that handed down by the Yang family to Grandmaster Cheng Man Ching, and consists of 54 postures.
Training the 54 Step Jian form provides a solid foundation
for further study of this fascinating weapon, and gives the exponent an
understanding of the graceful way in which the thirteen sword secrets are
embodied in its practice.
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester
M16 0EL
Click here for a map
£55 (£45 Members booked in advance)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood,
Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
10:00am - 5:00pm both days
This cane form introduced to Europe by Nigel in 1988 also known as Tai Ji Cane has "evolved" somewhat as it has been disseminated throughout Europe. Now is your chance to learn the "original" form with the "genuine" applications.
Forget "Farmer Frank" and the stories of this weapon as some kind
of sheep-taming, furniture-removing, hooligan-hammering wonder weapon and
instead learn of its origins in Shandong Province, China. Learn the genuine
lineage from Master Yang Ching Feng to Master Liang He Qing and thence to
Master Liu Jing Hong who adapted the techniques and modified the form to develop
Tai Ji Cane.
Learn directly from Nigel Sutton who learnt directly from both Master Liang
He Qing and Master Liu Jing Hong and was the first non-Chinese authorized
to teach this weapon.
This is an opportunity not to be missed.
Yeading Community Centre, Ditchfield Road, Yeading, Middlesex
UB4 9BH
Click here for a map
£75 (£60 for members booked in advance) for the
two days.
To book contact Brian Woodruff, 221 Church Road, Northolt, Middlesex UB5 5BE (phone: 020-8841-1054 or email brian@zhong-ding.com). Cheques should be made payable to B. Woodruff.
10:00am - 5:00pm
The fan is the Hongmen fan (Hong quan, Hong style boxing) an intermediate level fan course with a more martial flavour than the taiji fan. The fan is used both offensively and defensively in both closed and open position. This form aids in the development and expression of fa jing with the fan itself providing evidence of such development. It is suitable for all students with a basic background in martial arts.
The course is taught by Tan Mew Hong a senior student of Master Liang He Qing from whom she learnt the form.
Students may bring their own fan or purchase one "on
the day". This is an opportunity not to be missed.
Yeading Community Centre, Ditchfield Road, Yeading, Middlesex
UB4 9BH
Click here for a map
£40 (£30 for members booked in advance).
To book contact Brian Woodruff, 221 Church Road, Northolt, Middlesex UB5 5BE (phone: 020-8841-1054 or email brian@zhong-ding.com). Cheques should be made payable to B. Woodruff.
12:00pm - 3:00pm
This morning workshop will take an in-depth look at the 37-posture
form of Cheng Man-Ch'ing, and will feature individual postural corrections.
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester
M16 0EL
Click here for a map
£20 (£15 Members booked in advance) - £35
(£25) for both this and the later San Shou course together.
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood,
Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
3:30pm - 6:30pm
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester
M16 0EL
Click here for a map
£20 (£15 Members booked in advance) - £35
(£25) for both this and the earlier 37 step form course together.
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood,
Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
Tai Chi - Push Hands - Qigong - Fun
We're back camping in the Pennines near Buxton once again for fun, training and the usual good time. The site is highly recommended by both the English Tourist Board and the AA, having excellent showering facilities, shop etc. (including cooked breakfast etc. at the nearby café). In order to secure places at this site, deposits and numbers must be sent off as soon as possible. Accommodation is also available at hotels and bed and breakfast houses nearby.
Camping is £9.00/night (for two people, car and tent). Anyone coming just to camp (not train) will be asked to pay just the camping fees.
We'll meet on Friday evening to set up camp. There are plans for a variety
of events starting on Saturday morning at 8.00 a.m. continuing over the
weekend and finishing on Sunday evening. As there will be several instructors
present at the camp, all levels will be catered for. The camp will be an
excellent opportunity to deepen or try out various aspects of Taiji.
There are local caverns in the area that people can visit,
weather permitting. By popular request we may invade Buxton swimming baths
again. As the classics say:-
"Be still as a mountain, move as a great river, swim or you'll drown"
Full details and itinerary will be forwarded on booking. Sharing of Tent space and transportation will also be coordinated when you book. (Please let me know if you have or need either).
Cost: £60/75 (or £15/20 per session))
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood,
Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
12:00pm - 3:00pm
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester
M16 0EL
Click here for a map
£20 (£15 Members booked in advance) - £35
(£25) for both this and the later Pushing Hands course together.
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood,
Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
3:30pm - 6:30pm
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester
M16 0EL
Click here for a map
£20 (£15 Members booked in advance) - £35
(£25) for both this and the earlier kwai tai chi course together.
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood,
Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
(Yes, we know that this is not a UK event, but it is directed at members in the UK, as well as others, so it seemed a good idea to put a link here - webmaster.)
Full details of the 15th Anniversary Celebrations can be found here.
Time: Sat 1pm - 6pm, Sun 10am - 4pm
The simplest and often the first taught of the taiji weapons
(training aids), the broadsword will develop your strength, awareness
and whole body co ordination. In particular it hones the tremendous
power made available by correct use of the waist, 'rooting', body alignment
and relaxation. Through study of the broadsword, learning and understanding
the basics of tai chi forms is greatly enhanced and accelerated.
FORM: For complete beginners to start learning the broadsword form, and for more advanced students to study/practise the solo and two person broad sword forms and their principles.
APPLICATIONS: To learn how to put principles and form into practice and how to use more advanced techniques to deepen and check your basic understanding of taiji and its applications.
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL Click here for a map
Cost: £55 (Zhong Ding members £45) / £35 (Members
£25) for one day. (Members price only applies if received by 18/10/03)
This course is a must for those of you who want to take their martial arts training to a higher level. The time and venue have yet to be arranged but it will probably be Spring 2003 and somewhere in the Midlands.
The course, as its title suggests, will consist of seven days of intensive
training, and will be residential. Only duan grades will be eligible for
places on the course and participants must be mentally and physically fit.
There will be a minimum of four instructors of fourth duan or above on the
training cadre. The course will cover the basic taijiquan syllabus with
special emphasis on one aspect to be chosen by the course instructors.
If you wish to participate then you must know the 37 posture form, si zheng
tui, da lu, 54 jian, jian sparring, kwai taiji, neigong and the basic spear
exercises.
The course will cost no more than £250.00, which will include food,
accommodation, training uniform and training. The course will be open to
no more than 15 students. Those who participate will be free to leave at
any time should they find the course too rigorous. For those, however, who
complete the course, it will prove truly life-transforming, as well as taking
your taiji to a higher level. This is your opportunity to become one of
the first intake for "The 7".
If you would like to be considered for this course please e-mail me at ncs8@tm.net.my
or write to me c/o John Higginson 74 Great Stone Road, Chorlton Manchester
M16 OHD, giving your reasons for wanting to attend.
Previous events in the UK
Events menu
A weekend of intensive training in the Cheng Man Ching style
taijiquan form, pushing hands, fast form and straightsword. This weekend
is suitable for taijiquan exponents of all levels. Taught by Nigel Sutton
and Master Liang He Qing this is an unparalleled opportunity to deepen
your study of the art.
The course will incorporate an instructor level grading for those eligible.
Cost:
Two days Members 75 pounds, Non-members 100 pounds
Individual days Members 50 pounds, Non-members 75 pounds
Course location:
Saturday 29th November -
The Ethel Wainright Primary School,
Westfield close,
Mansfield
Notts.
Sunday 30th November -
Rainworth Leisure Centre,
Warsop Lane,
Rainworth
Notts NG21 OAG
Courses due to start 10:00 am both days
Contact telephone numbers for directions etc.
Darren Roberts (01623) 551968
Or
Don Harradine (01623) 798583
Hotels that are local to the training halls that have rooms for the above
dates are:
The Larch Farm,
2 Mansfield Road,
Ravenshead,
Notts.
(01623) 491987
and
Holly Lodge,
Rickett Lane,
Blidworth,
Notts.
(01623) 793853
Other hotels can be found at: www.4hotels.co.uk
All are Ok for the venues within the Mansfield and Sutton-in-Ashfield
options
10:00am - 5:00pm
Venue: Yeading Community Centre, Ditchfield Road, Yeading, Middlesex UB4 9BH Click here for a map
Cost: £40 (Zhong Ding members £30)
10:00am - 5:00pm
Venue: Sussex
Contact: Glen Pelham-Mather, 07732-524473
10:00am - 5:00pm
Venue: York
Contact: Bob France (07967 405992)
10:00am - 5:00pm
Venue: Mansfield
Contact: Don Harradine (01623-798583)
10:00am - 5:00pm
Venue: Manchester
Contact: John Higginson (0161-860-4111)
A chance to learn or practise two-person san shou (tai chi fast form). This flowing form provides a bridge between the slow form and understanding more advanced fighting applications – learn how to make your tai chi work.
Gao style bagua zhang begins with walking the circle.
From this the arts concepts and strategies are learned.
Bagua develops incredible centrifugal force and acceleration by
combining continuous motion with internal power.
John has taught bagua for over eight years and has recently returned from an intensive training course with the GAO family in Beijing. This is a great chance to learn the foundations of this exciting art.
Venue:
Shen Hsing Tao
Chinese Boxing Club
Evergreen Centre
Kirby-In-Ashfield
Nottinghamshire
Contact:
Steve Johnson
Home - 01623 405106
Work - 01623 758647
email: c.johnson9030@ntlworld.com
Cost:
£30 Members
£35 Non-Members
£10 Juniors
For further details please contact Bob France (07967 405992)
For further details please contact Don Harradine (phone: 01623 798583 or email: donald.harradine@ntu.ac.uk )
For further details please contact Don Harradine (phone: 01623 798583 or email: donald.harradine@ntu.ac.uk )
For further details please contact Don Harradine (phone: 01623 798583 or email: donald.harradine@ntu.ac.uk )
Yeading Community Centre, Ditchfield Road, Yeading,
Middlesex UB4 9BH
Click here for a map
£40 (Zhong Ding members £30)
To book contact Brian Woodruff, 221 Church Road, Northolt, Middlesex UB5 5BE (phone: 020-8841-1054 or email brian@zhong-ding.com). Cheques should be made payable to B. Woodruff.
For further details please contact Glen Pelham-Mather (phone: 07732 524473 or 01903 500017)
This course is a unique opportunity to train with Tim Nicklin and Nigel Sutton. The course will cover footwork of the internal martial arts and weapons work from the arts of Japan/Okinawa.
Tim Nicklin is one of the UK’s foremost experts on the
original karate of Okinawa and in his extensive martial arts
career has studied with leading masters in Japan, Okinawa,
Taiwan and Malaysia as well as with the best of the UK’s
experts.
Nigel Sutton has studied extensively in China, Taiwan, Singapore
and Malaysia and specializes in the neijiaquan (internal martial
arts).
For further details please contact Mark Ellett
yinyanghands@hotmail.com
Venue: Thomas Peacock Hall (rear of Rye Sports Centre), Grove Road, Rye
Cost: £30
For further details please contact Stuart Innes (phone: 07961 949715 or 01424 429396)
For further details please contact Don Harradine (phone: 01623 798583 or email: donald.harradine@ntu.ac.uk )
This course is suitable for both beginners and more advanced students. Students should bring boxing gloves if possible.
Venue: Evergreen Centre, Urban Road (near Railway Station), Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts
Cost: £35 members, £40 non-members
For further details please contact Steve Johnson (phone: 01623 405106 or 01623 758647)
For further details please contact John Fowler (phone: 01803 400814 or email: johnfowler8@eurobell.co.uk )
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
Presented by Zhong Ding Traditional Chinese Martial
Arts Association
in conjunction with
Beijing Gao Style Baguazhang International
This special event celebrates the 16th Anniversary of the Zhong Ding Traditional Chinese Martial Arts Association and the Official Inauguration of the Beijing Gao Style Baguazhang International
The event will take place from August 13th to the 30th.
Accommodation will be in a four star hotel, the Paradise Sandy Bay
Hotel. Daily training of up to six hours will take place daily under
the supervision of Master Gao Jiwu 5th generation baguazhang descendant,
Nigel Sutton 6th generation baguazhang descendant and Chief Instructor
of the Zhong Ding Association, Master Zhao Wei Dong Senior Instructor
Dongfang Wushu Institute, Master Ho Ah San, disciple of Lu Tong Bao,
and others.
In addition there will be sightseeing tours of the island, an anniversary
dinner with performances and visits to local martial arts masters.
The event cost of 750 pounds sterling includes:
training with the Masters
welcome and farewell dinners
accommodation
buffet breakfast
sightseeing tours
anniversary dinner
To secure a place contact Nigel Sutton here. There will be a fifty pound discount for those who book before April 30th 2004.
The Paradise Sandy Bay Hotel
The Broadsword (dao) is usually the first learned of the taiji weapons
(training aids), and is often referred to as the "hundred day"
weapon, being the length of time it took to get some mastery in
its use.
The dao has a curved blade, and because it is a single-edged nature,
it must be used with a decisive circular action. The broadsword
will develop your strength, awareness and whole body co ordination.
In particular it hones the tremendous power made available by correct
use of the waist, 'rooting', body alignment and relaxation. Through
study of the broadsword, learning and understanding the basics of
tai chi forms is greatly enhanced and accelerated.
The workshop will provide an opportunity to learn:
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings
Road, Firswood, Manchester M16
Cost: both days - £55 (£45 for Zhong
Ding members, booked in advance) - one day £30 / £25
Venue: Evergreen Centre, Urban Road (near Railway Station), Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts
Cost: £30 (juniors £10)
For further details please contact Steve Johnson (phone: 01623 405106 or 01623 758647 or email c.johnson@ntlworld.co.uk)
Venue: Evergreen Centre, Urban Road (near Railway Station), Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts
Cost: £30 (juniors £10)
For further details please contact Steve Johnson (phone: 01623 405106 or 01623 758647 or email c.johnson@ntlworld.co.uk)
Venue: Thomas Peacock Hall (rear of Rye Sports Centre), Grove Road, Rye
Cost: £30
For further details please contact Stuart Innes (phone: 07961 949715 or 01424 429396)
As with last year Zhong Ding East Midlands will be hosting this event and they have arranged to include a delicious meal on the Saturday evening. Hopefully this year there will be a lot less singing of crude songs by members of the medical profession, still maybe fatherhood will have matured him. (Sorry C I couldn’t resist!) The weekend will be focused on the practice of taijiquan’s gong fu, that is the skill that you acquire through lots of hard work! There will also be a grading and our first ever multi-discipline friendly competition. Teams from all of the Zhong Ding areas will be competing in empty hand form, short weapon form, long weapon form, push hands and freestyle sparring. I know that teams all around the country have been training hard for this event. The competition events will be held throughout Saturday and finish on Sunday. Based on the performances of the competitors myself and the rest of the Technical Panel will be selecting a Zhong Ding National Team to train together and ultimately to take part in international competition.
The Spirit Training that we will all be taking part in is an important
part of the Zhong Ding tradition. We will train hard encouraging
each other to reach greater heights than we had previously thought
possible. This is a great way to forge ties of friendship through
hard work and a shared experience. As some of you might know in
June my wife, Fong led a group of hardy Sussex Zhong Ding members
in a night of midsummer madness during which they managed to complete
among other things four thousand spear thrusts. This is no easy
task but those who completed it felt transformed and empowered.
This weekend is a chance for you to achieve the same thing.
For those of you who wish to take a duan grading or to reconfirm
your current grade this weekend is the chance.
So I hope to see all of you there. Oh and did I mention there will
also be a shop selling weapons and other equipment at prices that
cannot be beaten. I’m looking forward to this weekend and
to seeing you all.
This course is suitable for both beginners and more advanced students. Students should bring boxing gloves if possible.
Venue: Evergreen Centre, Urban Road (near Railway Station), Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts
Cost: £30 (juniors £10)
For further details please contact Steve Johnson (phone: 01623 405106 or 01623 758647 or email c.johnson@ntlworld.co.uk)
Come and join in the festive fun and round off your training for 2004 at the Xmas Workshops!
Four individual sessions will be held over two days, with something to interest every student, whatever their level of experience. [There may be an option for three days if sufficient interest – please enquire]
Students are welcome to attend individual sessions or full days as their holiday time allows, and for those who wish to stay overnight, there may be additional meditation and qigong practice (please enquire if interested and not staying)
At least two instructors will be available at each session, providing beginner-level instruction for those who want to work at a slower pace or try something for the first time and advanced-level instruction for those who want to step up the pace!
The workshop programme will include work on
the empty hand forms
of your choice, including:
- Basic Cheng Man Ching, slow or fast Taiji
- Associated pushing hands and applications
- Empty hand to weapons connections
- Also 2 person and Fan, stick/staff/spear forms available
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to
184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL
Click here for a map
Cost: both days - £50, one day £28,
£15 per session for Zhong Ding members, booked in advance
(for non-members £18 per session)
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
An opportunity to work on the key principles and actual movements of the slow taiji hand form - Via the lessons given by the "Taiji classics".
N.B. Suitable for all
Venue: Holme St. Arts Centre
(next to Post Office), Hebden Bridge, W. Yorks
Cost: £15 per session (If booked with
the following Sensing Hands course then £25 for the
two)
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
Sensing hands training is the first step to
a real understanding of the nature of the taiji slow hand
form. The workshop will increase the student's appreciation
of the intrinsic energies of taijiquan, as well as developing
flexibility, root and awareness skills.
Venue: Holme St. Arts Centre
(next to Post Office), Hebden Bridge, W. Yorks
Cost: £15 per session (If booked with
the following Sensing Hands course then £25 for the
two)
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
The practice of San Shou – taijiquan’s flowing fast forms – encourages a natural progression from slow form practice to applications by giving insight into the meaning of the basic form sequence. One learns how to keep the whole body alive/aware, whilst keeping one’s power flowing "as smoothly as uncoiling silk". You will learn how to guide forces without going "force against force". This produces a flowing bridge between basic and more advanced taijiquan.
The course is suitable for:
- Novices - to start learning the San Shou forms
– (solo or two-person).
- More advanced students - to study/practise the
forms and principles.
The day is applicable from beginner to instructor
level. This will also be an excellent opportunity
for those who have already learnt a San Shou form
to hone their skills. Please ask for advice.
Venue: Scout Hut,
(next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16
0EL
Click here for a map
Cost: £20 for Zhong Ding
members, booked in advance (for non-members £25)
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
This course will be taught by Ian Sinclair.
Venue: Lockwood Conservative Club, Lockwood, Huddersfield
Contact: Ian Sinclair - 07719 571021
Events menu
The Broadsword (Dao) is usually the first learned of the taiji weapons (training aids), and is often referred to as the "hundred day" weapon, being the length of time it took to get some mastery in its use.
The Dao has a curved blade, and because it is a single-edged nature, it must be used with a decisive circular action. The broadsword will develop your strength, awareness and whole body co ordination. In particular it hones the tremendous power made available by correct use of the waist, 'rooting', body alignment and relaxation. Through study of the broadsword, learning and understanding the basics of tai chi forms is greatly enhanced and accelerated.
The workshop will provide an opportunity to learn:
• the complete Chen-style broadsword form
• solo and partner training exercises
• how to put form into practise
• how the practise of weapons can improve your slow form
• two person broadsword and other forms for those who already
know the solo form
Course Instructor: JOHN HIGGINSON (Zhong Ding Master
Instructor)
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings
Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL
Click here for a map
Cost: £30 for Zhong Ding members, booked
in advance (for non-members £35) - Dao/San Shou full weekend
£50 (£60 non-members)
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
The practice of San Shou - taijiquan’s flowing fast forms - encourages a natural progression from slow form practice to applications by giving insight into the meaning of the basic form sequence. One learns how to keep the whole body alive and aware whilst keeping one’s power flowing "as smoothly as uncoiling silk". You will learn how to guide forces without going "force against force". This produces a flowing bridge between basic and more advanced taijiquan.
The course is suitable for:
- Novices - to start learning the San Shou forms (solo or two-person)
- More advanced students - to study/practise the forms and principles
The course is applicable from beginner to instructor
level. This will also be an excellent opportunity for those who
have already learnt a San Shou form to hone their skills. Please
ask for advice.
Course Instructor: JOHN HIGGINSON (Zhong Ding Master Instructor)
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings
Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL
Click here for a map
Cost: £30 for Zhong Ding members, booked
in advance (for non-members £35) - Dao/San Shou full weekend
£50 (£60 non-members)
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
This course will:- provide a basic but sound introduction to anatomy and massage for the complete beginner, or may serve to consolidate and advance skills already learned. (It is also an excellent way to spend a day in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere!)
The course will:- cover the basic massage strokes and some basic anatomy, and will also feature body alignment, e.g. how to generate forces with your body without creating or transmitting tensions and stress. There will also be techniques shown for the combating of everyday stresses and strains
The course instructor is a qualified 'remedial' and 'sports injuries' masseur who has also taught at massage college.
Please note that due to the nature of the course, places are extremely limited. To request a place, please send a £10 deposit (per day) to above address. (Payable to "John Higginson")
Course Instructor: JOHN HIGGINSON
Venue: 74 Great Stone Road, Stretford,
Manchester M16 0HD
Click here for a map
Cost: £45 for Zhong Ding members, booked
in advance (for non-members £55)
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
Qigong(Chi kung) and meditation are two of the most
important aspects of the Chinese internal arts. This day will give
people the chance to learn and experience several of the excellent
health practices of China. Meditation, whether active or passive,
is necessary to calm/clarify the mind and energy, and alleviate
any knots or blockages, whilst Qigong exercises strengthen and enhance
the natural balance and vital energies of the body.
The course is suitable for:
> Beginners – as an introduction to these two important
subjects
> More advanced students - to study/practise and understand the
forms and principles
The course is applicable from beginner to instructor level. This
will also be an excellent opportunity for instructors who need to
teach these subjects.
Course Instructor: JOHN HIGGINSON (Zhong Ding Master Instructor
- over 30 years experience)
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings
Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL
Click here for a map
Cost: £25 for Zhong Ding members, booked
in advance (for non-members £30) - half day may be possible
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
An intensive seminar featuring three instructors who went to the source to train in their respective arts.
SENSEI DAVE HAZARD Shotokan Karate - a member of the prestigious JKA instructors' class www.ask-karate.org
SENSEI DAVE RUBENS Yoshinkan Aikido graduate of the Yoshinkan instructors' class www.meido.demon.co.uk
NIGEL SUTTON Zhengzi (Cheng Man Ching) Taijiquan 15 years training and living in Asia www.zhong-ding.com
Together these three teachers constitute a century of martial arts experience which they will be sharing on:
At: The Dukeries Leisure Centre
New Ollerton,
Newark,
Notts.
NG22 9QA
Please note that anyone attending the course will need to send a deposit of £15 one week before the event. The full cost is £30 - if no deposit is received one week before the course then cost is £45 on the day and this must be in cash
For more details and booking phone Don Harradine on 01623 798583
This workshop will feature the thirteen Straight
Sword (Jian) “secrets” and basic exercises leading
to sword sticky sparring. The course will be suitable for all
levels, including beginners who have never held a sword before.
Continuing from where Part 1 left off, this workshop will complete the Martial Skills Course, including certification, and is again compulsory for all Instructors/duan grades, but may be of interest to any student.
Nigel Sutton has spent more than two decades intensively studying and teaching the oriental martial arts both in Europe and the Far East. Nigel is the chief instructor of Zhong Ding Traditional Chinese Martial Arts Association, and now lives in Malaysia where he practises a wide range of Chinese martial arts. He is a direct student of Master Gao Zi Yin of Beijing, and Master Lee Bian Lei, Master Lau Kim Hong and Master Tan Swoh Theng of Malaysia. Nigel is the author of 'Applied Tai Chi Chuan', 'Tai Chi Chuan: Roots and Branches', 'Tai Chi Chuan: Form to Function', and 'Searching for the Way'.
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to 184)
Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL
Click here for a map
Cost: Sword Secrets - £25 for Zhong Ding
members, booked in advance (for non-members £35), Martial
Skills Course - Red Packet (minimum £25)
For further details please contact John Higginson (phone: 0161-860-4111)
The taiji jian or double-edged straightsword plays an important role in Chinese culture. It is simultaneously a weapon, a badge of office, a religious implement and a magical or supernatural talisman or form of protection.
Developed and refined from the heavy weapon of the bloody battlefields of a thousand years ago, the sword has been the mark of the gentleman warrior and the systems of usage developed for this weapon have over the centuries acquired a level of sophistication and subtlety truly justifying the use of the term martial art.
In Zhengzi taijiquan the jian plays an important role. Whereas the solo form is representative of the earth element, solid, rooted from which all things grow; the jian represents water. What is the nature of water? It is flowing, yielding, encompassing the capacity for the softness of the gentle cooling rain and the ferocity of the tidal wave. For the student of taijiquan, the jian develops sensitivity, agility and flow; all essential qualities in reaching the highest levels of the art.
Training in Zhengzi taiji jian involves learning the thirteen basic elements of the jian, a solo form of 54 postures and a series of pre-arranged two-person exercises which ultimately lead to a form of freeplay which emphasizes the subtle sticking power of the taiji jian.
On this seminar you will learn the thirteen basic elements of the sword which are often known as the Thirteen Sword Secrets. Once you have become confident in these basic movements you will learn how to practice them with a partner, first in pre-arranged sequences and then in freeplay.
This course is suitable for all; including those who have never handled a jian before. Since none of the techniques or usage depend on size or strength the jian is the great “equalizer”. Diligent study will result in a deepened understanding of the other aspects of the art of taijiquan thus making jian an essential study.
A wooden straight sword is all that you need. Metal jian may be used for solo work but are unsuitable for two person practice.
All students who complete the course will be awarded a certificate recording their participation in the course. Such certification will constitute one part of the requirements for the 2nd and 3rd Duan instructor ratification of grade.
Yeading Community Centre, Ditchfield Road, Yeading, Middlesex UB4 9BH Click here for a map
£40 (£35 for members booked in advance).
To book contact Brian Woodruff, 221 Church Road, Northolt, Middlesex UB5 5BE (phone: 020-8841-1054 or email brian@zhong-ding.com). Cheques should be made payable to B. Woodruff.
SITE ARRANGEMENTS
We’re back camping in the Pennines near Buxton once again for fun, training and the usual good time. The site is highly recommended by both the English Tourist Board and the AA, having excellent showering facilities, shop etc. (including cooked breakfast etc. at the nearby café). In order to secure places at this site, deposits and numbers must be sent off as soon as possible. Accommodation is also available at hotels and bed and breakfast houses nearby.
Camping is £12.00/night (for two people, car and tent). Anyone coming just to camp (not train) will be asked to pay just the camping fees.
EVENTS
We’ll meet on Friday evening to set up camp. There are plans for a variety of events starting on Saturday morning at 8.00 a.m. continuing over the weekend and finishing on Sunday evening. As there will be several instructors present at the camp, all levels will be catered for. The camp will be an excellent opportunity to deepen or try out various aspects of Taiji.
There are local caverns in the area that people can visit, weather permitting. By popular request we may invade Buxton swimming baths again. As the classics say:- "Be still as a mountain, move as a great river, swim or you'll drown"
Full details and itinerary will be forwarded on booking. Sharing of Tent space, spare tents and transportation will also be coordinated when you book. (Please let me know if you have or need either).
Cost: £70/85 (or £15/20 per session)
PLEASE NOTE: EARLY BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL TO RESERVE CAMPING SPACES!!!
Please pay deposit of £20 (or £10 per day) as soon as possible to: John Higginson, 74 Great Stone Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (Telephone 0161 - 860 - 4111)
Through hundreds of years of Chinese history, the Jian has featured
prominently as a symbol of office and position for scholars and
the gentry, as well as a magic instrument for China’s Daoist,
and also being a main Chinese weapon.
This short form and drills is designed to give students
the opportunity to become familiar with handling the sword with
its different grips and techniques. It is particularly appropriate
for those intending to learn the 54-step jian form and also excellent
for those already familiar with sword work to unlock many of taiji’s
‘secrets’. Beginners or advanced students are invited
to get to grips with the intricacies of this part of the tai chi
curriculum.
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL Click here for a map
Cost:
£30 (£25 Members booked in advance)
- (reduced to £25/£20 if you are also booked on the
54 step on 8th/9th October)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road,
Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
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Through hundreds of years of Chinese history, the Jian has featured
prominently as a symbol of office and position for scholars and
the gentry, as well as a magic instrument for China’s Daoist,
and also being a main Chinese weapon.
The form presented on this weekend seminar is that
handed down by the Yang family to Grandmaster Cheng Man Ching
and consists of 54 postures. Study of this form provides a solid
foundation for further study of this fascinating weapon and gives
the exponent an understanding of the graceful way in which the
thirteen sword secrets are embodied in its practice. Study of
the straight sword develops and enhances the exponent’s
agility, sensitivity and ability to use flexible footwork, all
of which are vital to the taijiquan practitioner’s overall
development.
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL Click here for a map
Cost:
£60 (£50 Members booked in advance)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road,
Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
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Qigong(Chi kung) and meditation are two of the most important aspects of the Chinese internal arts. This day will give people the chance to learn and experience several of the excellent health practices of China. Meditation, whether active or passive, is necessary to calm/clarify the mind and energy, and alleviate any knots or blockages, whilst Qigong exercises strengthen and enhance the natural balance and vital energies of the body.
The course is suitable for:
Beginners – as an introduction to these two important subjects
More advanced students - to study/practise and understand the forms and principles
The course is applicable from beginner to instructor level. This will also be an excellent opportunity for instructors who need to teach these subjects.
Course Instructor: JOHN HIGGINSON (Zhong Ding Master Instructor-over 30 years experience)
Venue:
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL Click here for a map
Cost:
£20 (£15 Members booked in advance)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road,
Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
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The basic form is one of the best ways of developing the Taiji
Fa Jing or ability to focus and discharge energy, by correct use
and alignment of the body’s structure. Some of the partner
exercises closely resemble empty hand exercises, this develops
the student’s ability to extend his energy to the end of
the spear which truly becomes an extension of the hand. This same
extension of energy serves to develop further the student’s
ability to use Ting, Dong and Hua Jing (Listening, absorbing and
neutralising energies) as well.
Course Instructor: JOHN HIGGINSON (Zhong Ding Master Instructor)
Venue:
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL Click here for a map
Cost:
£20 (£15 Members booked in advance)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road,
Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
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This course will:
Provide a basic but sound introduction to anatomy and massage for the complete beginner, or may serve to consolidate and advance skills already learned. (It is also an excellent way to spend a day in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere!)
Cover the basic massage strokes and some basic anatomy, and will also feature body alignment, e.g. how to generate forces with your body without creating or transmitting tensions and stress. There will also be techniques shown for the combating of everyday stresses and strains
The course instructor is a qualified 'remedial' and 'sports injuries'
masseur who has also taught at massage college.
Venue:
74 Greatstone Road, Stretford, Manchester M16 0HD Click here for a map
Cost:
£55 (£45 Members booked in advance)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road,
Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111). Please note
that due to the nature of the course, places are extremely
limited.
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The practice of San Shou - taijiquan’s flowing fast forms - encourages a natural progression from slow form practice to applications by giving insight into the meaning of the basic form sequence. One learns how to keep the whole body alive and aware whilst keeping one’s power flowing "as smoothly as uncoiling silk". You will learn how to guide forces without going "force against force". This produces a flowing bridge between basic and more advanced taijiquan.
The course is suitable for:
Novices - to start learning the San Shou forms (solo or two-person)
More advanced students - to study/practise the forms and principles
The course is applicable from beginner to instructor level. This
will also be an excellent opportunity for those who have already
learnt a San Shou form to hone their skills. Please ask for advice.
Course Instructor: JOHN HIGGINSON (Zhong Ding Master Instructor)
Venue:
Scout Hut, (next to 184) Kings Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0EL Click here for a map
Cost:
£25 (£20 Members booked in advance)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road,
Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
NB - There are also events in Europe that can be reached easily from the UK
This seminar aims to show how the art of Taijiquan can be used as a Close Quarter Fighting Art. Although often seen as a purely health improvement art, Taijiquan (or Tai Chi) develops many Martial skills.
Based on some of the principles practiced in normal classes, the day will cover:
DISTANCING, CLOSING, CONTROLLING AND STRIKING.
All the techniques featured in this Seminar will be featured in a forthcoming book.
Suitable for novices and experienced Martial Artists.
Venue: Exwick Middle School, Exwick Hill, Exeter, Devon, EX4 2EW
Price: £20 (half day) / £30 (full day), £5 / £10 non-refundable deposit required
Due to limited spaces, places must be booked and deposits paid at least one week in advance. To book, please contact at ian@threestlyes.com or phone on 01392 256336.
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This seminar will look at the principles of the Traditional Chinese Jian, or straight sword, covering the skills used in Taijiquan and looking at the links between empty hand and weapons training.
This seminar will cover footwork drills, use of whole body power and sword movements.
If required a training sword can be provided at an additional cost. (Ask for details.)
Suitable for novices and experienced Martial Artists.
Venue: Exwick Middle School, Exwick Hill, Exeter, Devon, EX4 2EW
Price: £20 (half day) / £30 (full day), £5 / £10 non-refundable deposit required
Due to limited spaces, places must be booked and deposits paid at least one week in advance. To book, please contact at ian@threestlyes.com or phone on 01392 256336.
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This in-depth seminar will cover what Grandmaster Zheng Manqing
(Cheng Man Ching) described as the “tripod” upon which
our art is based. The course will consist of three sessions on
Saturday December 3rd and two sessions on Sunday December 4th,
including both practical training and a detailed examination of
the theoretical basis of these essential aspects of taijiquan.
The course will also include continuous assessment
ratification of Duan grades. All students wishing to test for
Duan grades or Instructor for health grades should inform their
club instructor.
Venue: Dukeries Leisure Centre, New Ollerton NG22 9QA
Contact: Don Harradine (01623 798583)
Come and join in the festive fun and round off your training for 2005 at the Xmas Workshops!
Four individual sessions will be held over two days, with something to interest every student, whatever their level of experience. [There may be an option for three days if sufficient interest – please enquire]
Students are welcome to attend individual sessions or full days as their holiday time allows, and for those who wish to stay overnight, there w1ll be additional meditation and qigong practice (please enquire if interested and not staying)
At least two instructors should be available at each session, providing beginner-level instruction for those who want to work at a slower pace or try something for the first time and advanced-level instruction for those who want to step up the pace!
The workshop programme will include work on the empty hand forms of your choice, including:
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to 184, Kings Road), Firswood, Manchester, M16 Click here for a map
Price: £15 (half day) / £28 (full day) / £50 (both days) - £18 / £33 / £55 for non-members
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111)
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An opportunity to work on the key principles and actual movements of the slow taiji hand form - With the lessons given by the "Taiji classics".
N.B. Suitable for all
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to 184, Kings Road), Firswood, Manchester, M16 Click here for a map
Price: £13 (£15 for non-members) - discount available if also booking for the courses on 21st January.
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111).
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Four Noble Truths and basic meditation – A basic Buddhist view of the world and our interaction with it. Said to be the first teaching the Buddha gave after his Enlightenment.
John has been a practising Tibetan Buddhist since the age of fourteen when he met H.H. Karmapa, and then took refuge with the very Venerable Lama Kalu in 1975.
John first met his root teacher Khyabje C.R. Lama in 1979 when he received
the Guru Rinpoche empowerment, but then lost touch with him until 1989 when
he began studying with him again. From 1994 – 2002 John spent between
1 and 2 months each year in India, Sikkim and Nepal visiting his teacher Kyabje
C.R. Lama, as well as attending and hosting seminars around Europe.
Venue: 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD Click here for a map
Price: Free, but any donations given will go to charitable works (please ask for details). No need to book.
Contact: John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111).
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This course will:- provide a basic but sound introduction to anatomy and massage for the complete beginner, or may serve to consolidate and advance skills already learned. (It is also an excellent way to spend a weekend in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere!)
The course will:- cover the basic massage strokes and some basic anatomy, and
will also feature body alignment, e.g. how to generate forces with your body
without creating or transmitting tensions and stress. Also more advanced techniques
for those who already do some massage.
There will also be techniques shown for the combating of everyday stresses and
strains.
The course instructor is a qualified 'remedial' and 'sports injuries' masseur who has also taught at massage college.
Please note that due to the nature of the course places are limited, so please
book early.
Venue: 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD Click here for a map
Price: £45 if booked in advance (£55 for non-members)
Contact: John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111).
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Sensing hands training is the first step to a real understanding of the nature of the taiji slow hand form. The workshop will increase the student's appreciation of the intrinsic energies of taijiquan, as well as developing flexibility, root and awareness skills.
Venue: Scout Hut, (next to 184, Kings Road), Firswood, Manchester, M16 Click here for a map
Price: £13 one session - £25 two sessions/ £35 these two sessions plus the one on 7th January (£15 / £28 / £40 for non-members)
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111).
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For instructors and advanced-level students to train together intensively, and to encourage in-depth exploration and research of the principles underlying the art of taijiquan.
The core of the course is one training day every two months, although a whole weekend is available. The course will cover:
The course will include additional notes and information on teaching and learning skills and styles, in addition to the usual Zhong Ding teaching pack, for those who wish them.
N.B. - There MAY also be the opportunity to take a first aid qualification
at the beginning and/or end of the year – and also Chinese world/medical
theory.
Venue: Manchester
Price: £300 (Instructors) £240 (in 2nd year or
more) £240 (Advanced students)
To be considered for the course please register as early as possible.
To book contact John Higginson, 74 Greatstone Road, Firswood, Manchester M16 0HD (phone 0161-860-4111).
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Through hundreds of years of Chinese history, the straight sword (Jian) has featured prominently as a symbol of office and position for scholars and the gentry, as well as a magic in