Author Archives: school

Chang Gong

The Academy of Martial and Internal Arts Posted on by 2

Whether you are the ancient hermit of the Dark Forest or a week-in week-out practitioner, martial training always rewards perseverance with increased skills you have gathered and accumulated like rain. Skills like these come mostly from just hanging in there and that’s the reason they stay in the shadows, unnoticed. The results of CHANG GONG, or “Long Practice,” signify skills that comes as messages through time. Its ceaseless evolution allows practitioners to keep track of their progress, even if just stockpiling. But maybe there is a better way to say this: Chang Gong is NOT a method you seek, but … Continue reading →

Adam Hsu on Chen Style Taijiquan

The Academy of Martial and Internal Arts Posted on by  

It is no secret that we at Plum greatly admire Adam Hsu (Hsu Ji) and his teachings. We have published some of his books and DVDs, excerpted and reprinted articles, and referenced his many principles and theories. He is also our teacher. Although many have read his works and seen his videos, it’s not exactly the same as being able to take a class with Master Hsu. So it is with happiness that we are able to share this (free) excellent video of him giving a short lesson at his regular location in Taiwan, on Chen Tai Chi Chuan applications … Continue reading →

Copper Whiskers

The Academy of Martial and Internal Arts Posted on by  

This is an article about one of the great weapons, a weapon that has been employed in real combat but which is also considered an instrument of beauty and style. People react variously to a two-edged straight sword; some see its performance as art. This is rare. Traditionally, scholars wore a straight sword to blend the literary with the martial. It is said, that Confucius wore a sword for just this reason. It is not typically a battlefield weapon, but those who protected their villages commonly wielded the two-edged blade with authority. Today, most who pick up this weapon say … Continue reading →

What Are We All Up To?

The Academy of Martial and Internal Arts Posted on by  

Hello all, We’ve been getting nice emails from some of you, letting us know how you are doing. Some tales even include pictures and videos! Woohoo! We love that. Below is a taste of what we have received. If you would like to contribute, by all means write to us. We miss you. More from John: Seeking the round in the straight and the straight in the round                   From Tony (Tai Chi class): Thank you for the update. Although I feel somewhat isolated, this has been a profoundly creative time for … Continue reading →

Daily Neigong (Qigong) Routine

The Academy of Martial and Internal Arts Posted on by 4

Our illustrious and accomplished colleague and friend in Sacramento, Sifu Robert Nakashima, has generously created and shared his daily Neigong routine. Running about 20 minutes, even just watching this video provides calm and comfort, although getting up and trying it yourself is highly recommended. The setting, the presentation, even the light chirping of birds in the background—along with, of course, Robert’s smooth and beautiful performance—all contribute to a real gift.

Continue reading →

Playing Around with the Rattan Ring

The Academy of Martial and Internal Arts Posted on by 1

Our first video for you at home utilizes a training tool called the Rattan Ring. Actually, there are several alternatives you can substitute if you don’t have one of these hanging around!  Please stay safe, and keep in touch! Ted, Linda and Debbie Since we are not able to hold in-person classes at our studio, we are creating some online training for our dear students. May all be well and healthy. The rattan ring is an unusual training device originally geared for martial artists. Its possibilities are almost unlimited; the ring entices participation, rolling defensively, uncovering tremendously tactile information. The … Continue reading →

Academy Class Suspension (Update)

The Academy of Martial and Internal Arts Posted on by  

Update, March 26: Hello dear friends, Well, we thought we would check in with you, see how you all are faring, and update you on our classes.    These last couple of weeks have been difficult for so many people—really, all of us, even those introverts among us! Pieces and parts of our normal lives have been upended, and something which for many was a distant concern came suddenly to the forefront. I think we have all spent at least a few moments treasuring our communities and friendships, big and small. We’ve heard from a few of you how much … Continue reading →

Life Is Too Short For Bad Kung Fu

The Academy of Martial and Internal Arts Posted on by  

Yes, it’s true! A new book in English by Adam Hsu. If this were Hollywood, Sifu Adam Hsu’s new book, “Life Is Too Short For Bad Kung Fu,” would be the tell-all on everyone’s reading list; not because it is gossipy—he names no names—but because it fulfills its promise to reveal the good, the bad, the ugly, the disappointing, the heartbreaking, and the inspirational. It’s all here. In over 300 pages of aphorisms accompanied by short essays, Hsu Sifu examines the current state of Kung Fu and, true to his nature, honestly discusses both the ongoing challenges facing Chinese martial … Continue reading →

From Us to You

The Academy of Martial and Internal Arts Posted on by  

Happy New Year to all of our dear students. We treasure and appreciate your continued study and community at the Academy. We would not be here without you. We open this year with a small gift, a performance by Sifu Linda Darrigo. We filmed her performance during a class in Taiwan. We all—Ted, Debbie and Linda— send our warmest wishes to you and yours, for great peace, health and happiness in the New Year.

Continue reading →