Curriculum

There are a number of fundamental techniques taught as part of the introduction to Wudang Sword at the Academy. These are broken up into fundamentals, basic cuts, controlling the line, introduction to sparring theory, and the first single person and partner form, Saicaijian aka Three Treasures Sword.

Fundamentals

• 8 direction cuts
• Yin-yang Sword Changes
• Triangle Stepping

Basic Cuts

• Wudang 13 Basic Cuts

Introduction to Sparring Theory

• Controlling the Centre Line
• Approaches
• Invitations
• Openings

Taolu - Form

• Sancaijian (三才剑)
• Sancaiduijian (三才对剑)

Progressing from the Sword Fundamentals, further improvement is taught by instruction in the Yang style Wudang Taijijian. Here the Taiji waist (腰) is further developed, improving softness and relaxation in the limbs to further improve the sensitivity in bind. More advanced basic cuts and footwork is introduced, and further sparring theory and application is taught.

Taolu - Form

• Yang style Wudang Taijijian (杨式武当太极剑)

Sword Sensitivity, Timing, and Distance

• Nianjian (黏剑) also known as Sticky Sword, an exercise/drill to improve sensitivity in the bind and distance management

The full six sections of the Wudang Duijian are taught at the Academy, progressing techniques and skills in a controlled manner that can be used in sparring. A methodology to teach distance and timing for a large number of standard combinations and counters used in sparring.

Taolu - Form

• Wudang Duijian (武当对剑)

Triangle and Circle sword theory is taught and practiced, implicitly within Taolu taught at the Academy, and explicitly in drills, games, and sparring.

At the end of each class, time is dedicated to sparring. There are three levels of sparring at the Academy, fixed step, single step, and free sparring. Participation in sparring is dependent upon appropriate safety equipment being worn, but once a person has equipment they are encouraged to apply techniques they have learnt.