Wushu West Chinese Martial Arts
Wushu West has been teaching traditional and contemporary wushu, tai chi quan, and bagua zhang in the San Francisco Bay Area for over 20 years. The curriculum includes comprehensive empty-hand and weapons forms, application and competition preparation at the national and international level for wushu athetes, and Chen, Yang, Wu and pushhands training for tai chi students. Master Hao Zhi Hua (Patti Li) was a star performer, along with teammate Jet Li, in the original Beijing Wushu Team for 15 years. This team thrilled the world with its stunning athleticism and amazing performances. Master Hao Zhi Hua is 3 time National All-Around Champion of China. She was selected as one of the ten best athletes in China in 1983. Now, with over 20 years teaching experience, Master Hao passes on the tradition to students here in California. Her students have achieved top levels of perfomance and skill in Chinese martial arts, including moving into starring roles in Cirque du Soleil's "Ka" production in Las Vegas, and many of them being selected for the US Wushu Team and U.S.A.W.K.F. Western Regional Grand Champions.
Wushu is the Chinese term for martial arts. With origins dating back over 2000 years, it is considered one of China's great cultural treasures. Chinese Wushu combines dynamic movements with aesthetic beauty to help build physical condition, mental focus and discipline. At Wushu West we provide instruction based on the individual's needs; for those preparing for international competition we are able to provide the latest in scientific approaches to wushu training and for those interested in just having a great, fun workout we can tailor the class for you as well. With the incredible depth of wushu culture, there is an aspect of wushu for every student. There are many benefits for those who practice Wushu. Physically, Wushu improves muscular strength, endurance and flexibility. It emphasizes superb control of one's body, utilizing coordination, balance, power and relaxation. Even the most basic stances, punches, and kicks help increase strength and flexibility, while advanced movements and aerial techniques teach speed, coordination, and explosive power. Many students state that Wushu has put them in the best shape of their life, and many people also find Wushu an excellent way to stay fit and lose excess pounds.
Wushu also emphasizes mental focus and discipline. The practice of Wushu helps students create a focused determination and provides a venue for the development of singular awareness -- the ability to be in tune and aware of one's surroundings and to focus and live in the present moment, free from mental distractions. In addition, Wushu is a performance art and helps students to develop confidence to perform in front of not only their classmates, but also large audiences at demonstrations, performances and competitions. This public display of skill creates the mental and emotional leverage required to bring a student's focus and training to the next level. Moreover, competitions throughout the year provide the opportunity to not only compete against other students from around the country and the world, but to foster relationships with other Wushu practitioners and enthusiasts from all walks of life. The discipline and confidence developed while practicing Wushu is applicable to everyday life, whether studying for a test at school, training in other sports, or giving a big presentation at work, Wushu is a resource that can help bring out the best in each of us.
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