On Friday night the group and several visitors were treated to an introduction of one of the Jiulong weapons....elbow knives. Using training replicas crafted by SGL Bob Maio the participants sliced, diced, thrusted and then, with a sobering clarity, became aware of the reality of knife combat.  More than one student remarked... "This is the scariest stuff I have ever come in contact with."

On Saturday and Sunday Dr. Painter's workshop provided a neatly organized and useful overview of the Jiulong Baguazhang system.  This overview allowed you to clearly see how one learned skill layers on top of previous skills to form a system for health and self defense. Understanding the system in this way really helps one think about each posture or piece as you practice-- that is, how this movement fits into the system. With meticulous attention to detail, Dr. Painter also reviewed many aspects of the system--becoming solid through sitting, settling with mediation, the standing postures, shifting, and walking. For each, he discussed the importance of proper body alignment and the difference that these good "body mechanics" make in practical applications.  The entire weekend workshop neatly complemented our weekly classes.

Many thanks extended to the source of our training, Dr. Painter, for coming and putting up with a snow storm during the events. I will urge all to run and not walk to a workshop near you....IT REALLY IS THAT GOOD.