Neal has pointed out the “monkey see, monkey do” mindset that pervades much of martial arts training. I have read in many places that this method of learning was somewhat a standard operational procedure in bygone eras, both in China and Okinawa.

There was little if any verbal exchange between teacher and student concerning principles and theory, and what correction was manifested usually was of short duration, and consisted in correcting the execution of techniques, in a more or less hands on manner.

Perhaps this method had some advantages to it. It would no doubt limit the Bullshido factor considerably.

Learning through watching is, I suppose, an inherent quality. We do it across many venues from childhood onward. In the Martial Arts sphere, and with the advent of choreographed cinema in Martial Arts films, many are attracted to the possibility of duplicating the fascinating portrayals that are depicted therein.

But, here is the enigmatic query; does the ability to duplicate the physical exertions portrayed transmit any Martial Principle to one’s understanding? Surely, one has learned to perform an activity, and so, that some learning has taken place is undeniable. Has a deeper understanding of a Martial Principle been transmitted though?

Now, approaching the subject conversely: supposing that a teacher realized that the physical actions could be easily learned, and duplicated, in a very short time frame. Yet, the Martial principles may never be grasped. Then, supposing that said teacher decided to endeavor to produce a series of physical movements, which would transmit the principles to the student’s understanding.

Now, supposing that our teacher was successful in creating such an exercise. But, in the end, this exercise which transmitted the more important principles, did not “appear” so very “Martial Artsy”. It had no flash, or flare, or enticing excitement.

It was, frankly, so bland in comparison to what many would suppose a Martial Arts exercise to be, that few if any would even consider it’s practice.

I am posting two links here. Each refers to the Yong Chun exercise “San Zhan”. One is by a Chinese Yong Chun White Crane Master. The second is by Martin Watts, an occidental practitioner who has championed Yong Chun in Europe, and is very adept at it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFEfWhIC7ac
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V7YrJ9lk3U

These Yong Chun displays of their San Zhan are examples of Martial Arts exercises in which the intent is to transmit principle, as opposed to techniques, to the student.

Watt’s rendition is very easy to emulate, and his attire allows one to perceive all the body dynamics of the form.

Any one with average co-ordination should be able to duplicate the movements easily. The reader may want to view this form and try it out.

Upon completion of the exercise, one should reflect on what principles it is conveying. This is, as stated above, a form in which the movements transmit the principles to the understanding. The principles, once absorbed, are then carried over into martial practice.

I think one will find the exercise enjoyable; and upon completion, will in fact sense that it has “said something” to them. All the best.

If you’re new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!Just recently I read a very interesting article written by Matt over at Ikigai blog in which he explained the subtle difference in meaning between the two Japanese words…