"When fighting with swords, you will not blink. This is called the Stability of the Eyes. You will not be surprised with sudden changes of situations... This is called Stability of the Mind."                              - Huang Hanxun, 20th century

Forged in turbulent times, the martial arts of China evolved to include a wide array of techniques and weapons. Practiced and passed on by members of all classes, from Imperial body guards and scholars to monks and common soldiers, these combat arts were intended to protect the body while at the same time challenging the mind and offering benefits such as increased flexibility and strength.

Students of Chinese martial arts at the Ravenswood Academy are trained from the beginning in principles such as efficient movement and generating force, while also learning specific techniques including strikes, kicking, joint locks and throws. Sets of movements passed down from previous generations are memorized, drilled, and then their practical applications to combative scenarios are applied. Not merely a collection of random movements, each technique should seamlessly flow from one to another. Eventually, students will move beyond empty hand applications and will train weapons of the style that include staff and differing types of sword.