At the core of Totality Martial Arts is the 1,500 year old martial art of Northern Shaolin Praying Mantis Kung Fu. Kung Fu translates as ‘hard work to achieve great skill’. Shaolin Praying Mantis refers to the Chinese boxing style developed by the monks at Shaolin Monastery, the birthplace of Chan/Zen Buddhism. This system offers deep insight into human body mechanics and the physics of movement. What is unique is that the conditioning & training methods promote good health beyond being fight fit. Dynamic flexibility, coordination, strength & the Chan mindset all developed in this class.

Training in this class is more focused on open handed forms or Taolu: fluid sequences of technique that program body alignment & proper mechanics. Partner drills developing blocks, parrying, striking, kicking & throws building sensitivity & reaction timing are explored as well. This practice is perfect for those wanting to explore traditional techniques & conditioning, along with the historical & philosophical traditions of Chinese Martial Arts.

Outline for this class (1-2 hour classes)

• Qigong

• Calisthenic warmups & mobility work

• Basic technique & fundamentals

• Partner drills

• Advanced technique

• Taolu

• Flexibility training

Physical conditioning & light contact training with an emphasis on flexibility, coordination & dynamic strength