Class Schedules and Descriptions

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Check back often to the Calendar Summary area for any changes in class schedules.
Dates not listed or listed as off can arise due to scheduling of other important events that may also be of interest to you.
Most classes offered through ATT are open to all, unless indicated otherwise, or unless contraindicated for physical or health reasons.

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Martial Arts Mind-Body Workshops Life Science Tutorials

Calendar Summary (Regular Martial Arts Classes, 2020)
TENTATIVE SUMMER SEMESTER STARTS JULY 25/26,
PENDING COVID-19 SITUATION

Saturday (8:30 AM-10:30 AM): Xing-Yi Quan (Taiwan Styles of Mr. RW Smith/Beijing Style of YCGF)
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
(ATT, New Market, Maryland)

Saturday (10:30 AM-12:30 PM): Bagua Zhang (Taiwan Styles of Mr. RW Smith/Beijing Styles of YCGF)
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
(ATT, New Market, Maryland)

Sunday (8:30 AM-9:30 AM): Beginning Taiji Quan (This class is scheduled only by advance appointment)
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
(ATT, New Market, Maryland)

Sunday (9:30 AM-10:30 AM): Wu Style Taiji Quan Basics and Grasp Bird Tail Sequence
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
(ATT, New Market, Maryland)

Sunday (10:30 AM-12:30 PM): Wu Style Taiji Quan Solo Form & Two-Person Practices
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
(ATT, New Market, Maryland)

Calendar Summary (Sponsored Martial Arts Classes, 2020):

NOVA Isshinryu Karate Training and Evaluations (Fri, 7:30-9:30pm)
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Club members only; inquire via NOVA Isshinryu (click here) about membership to this karate club
(NOVA IK Club, Burke, Virginia)

Kent Gardens Isshinryu Karate Training and Evaluations (Tues, 6:45-8:15pm)
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Club members only; inquire via ATT about membership to this karate club
(Kent Gardens IK Club, McLean, Virginia)

Takoma Park Isshinryu Karate Training and Evaluations (Mon, 7:00-8:30pm)
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Club members only; inquire via Takoma Isshinryu (click here) about membership to this karate club
(Takoma IK Club, Takoma Park, Maryland)

PSKC/Penn State Karate Club (Fri, 7:00-9:30pm)
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Club members and alumni only; inquire with PSKC (click here) about membership to this karate club
(PSKC, State College, Pennsylvania)

Kingstowne Karate Training/Shuri-Te Xingyi & Bagua (Tues, 6:00-8:00pm)
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Kingstowne club invitees only. ATT Extension Program.
Brian Oviatt, 5th Dan Shito-ryu, 4th Dan Shuri-te jujutsu, 2nd Dan Tae Kwon Do, 1st Dan Shuri-Te Xingyi Quan & Baguazhang
Inquire with Sensei Oviatt on his Shito-Ryu Karate and Shuri-Te Jujutsu groups and to join our Shuri-Te Xingyi & Bagua program
(Kingstowne Family Karate, Alexandria, Virginia)

Dragon Gym Baguazhang, ATT Extension Program (Sunday, 9:30am-12:00noon)
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Dragon Gym Baguazhang Program. ATT Extension Program.
Sensei Alfred Tolbert, 3rd Dan Tae Kwon Do/Taiji Instructor & Sifu John Armstrong, Chinese Internal Martial Arts/Gong Fu
Inquire via Alfred Tolbert (ajtol@verizon.net) about his Martial Arts and Health Programs
(Downingtown, Pa.)

Calendar Summary (Private Martial Arts, Health/Wellness, 2020):
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)

Private Study: Xing-Yi, Bagua, Taiji, Karate, Health/Wellness-Related
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Please inquire also about training in Chinese and Okinawan weaponry and about classes for your group at these times
We will also offer instruction with emphasis on health & wellness education in 2020
Private sessions are available for ATT members or non-members
Most Saturdays (1:00-5:00 PM); most Sundays (1:00-5:00 PM); times available on weekends via appointment only
Daytime Weekdays: Mon thru Fri (9:00 AM-12:00 PM; 1:00 PM-4:00 PM); times available on weekdays via appointment only
Evening Weekdays: Mon,Tues,Thurs,Fri (6:00-9:00 PM); times available on weekday evenings via appointment only
Note: times and dates open for private training will depend on monthly trainings scheduled elsewhere
(ATT, New Market, Maryland)

Calendar Summary (Sponsored Mind-Body Classes, Health/Wellness, Fall 2020)

Wednesday (6:00 PM-7:00 PM and 7:00 PM-8:00 PM):
10-Week Evening Tai Chi Sessions (with Qigong) at Hagerstown Community College (HCC)
Beginner (6:00pm-7:00pm): Qigong, Tai Chi Basics, and Beginner Primer Form Sequence
Intermediate (7:00pm-8:00pm): Wu Style Tai Chi, 37-Posture Form, Second One-Third of Form, Qigong
Sept 16,23,30; Oct7,14,21,28; Nov 4,11,18 (Back this Fall 2020, Pending COVID-19 Situation)
(Hagerstown Community College [HCC]) (Contact HCC Continuing Education to register for these classes)

Calendar Summary (Sponsored Life Sciences Classes, 2020):
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)

Lectures in Human Physiology
Lectures on basic human physiology for all and on the applied human physiology relating to our ATT curricula.
Contact us at ATT for further information about life science lectures for your academic institution or group.

Lectures in Virology & Viral Diseases
Lectures on the biology of human viruses and how they cause diseases and can be controlled.
Contact us at ATT for further information about life science lectures for your academic institution or group.

Martial Arts Programs

(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE:
CHECK BACK FOR JULY 25/26 RE-OPENING)

Click on blue navigator link below for interest area to jump and read more about our classes.

Martial Arts (you are here, scroll down through our extensive class offerings) Mind-Body Workshops Life Science Tutorials

Martial Arts Classes (2020)
Detailed Course Descriptions

Attend our classes and private sessions and learn basic to highly advanced and effective martial arts forms for both health and self-defense. Each class is designed to provide high-quality, detailed instruction and information you can take home and use to enhance your personal practice. Attend classes often to build your skill set. Start any time during a semester. Call or e-mail about our affordable tuition for these classes.

This is currently our most active set of course descriptions to scroll-and-browse.
Mark calendar for dates and times. Please note dates off and any new locations.
The class schedule may need to change on short notice, so please check back regularly.

Internal Martial Arts (China): Zong Yin Tang Nei Jia Quan (Xingyi & Bagua)

Zong Yin Tang Xingyi and Bagua: We made a long-term study of xing-yi quan and bagua zhang from 1987-2011 under the late Master RW Smith. We have been recognized as one of his senior instructors in these two arts since 1992. We pursued extensive research and adoption, under Mr. Smith's supervision, of various xingyi and bagua systems from both Taiwan and mainland China. This included additional overlapping, and continuing study of xingyi and bagua under Master Zhang Yun, since 1997, where we achieved master level instructor status in 2005 in his internal martial arts group. In total, these studies included the incorporation of several famous xing-yi quan and bagua zhang lineages that had been passed down in Tianjin (China), and through Taiwan, and also directly via Beijing (China).

As of 2012, ATT honored its combined lineage transmissions and influences in the internal arts in selecting its school name as Zong Yin Tang Nei Jia Quan. Roughly translated, 'zong' is 'ancestor or lineage' but can also mean 'to follow' when used as a verb; 'yin' is a 'seal, stamp, or mark'; 'tang' is a 'hall' for gathering; and 'nei jia quan' is 'internal family fist (or boxing system)'. So the ATT school name means: 'hall of the ancestor's seal (or mark) of internal family boxing', or 'hall of the lineage seal for internal family boxing'. It could also mean 'hall for following the seal of internal family boxing'.

A Brief Background: We offer classes in Xing-Yi Quan and Baguazhang as a basic and advanced study of the Chinese internal martial arts. We also offer instruction in Wu Style Taijiquan as a Chinese internal martial art (see further below).

Historically, Xing-Yi Quan and its prototype, variably known as 'Xinyi' Quan, were evident at least 75 to 100 years before baguazhang became known. Protoypes of 'xinyi' lineages were known to a few families living in China's country-side (e.g., Dai family and Ma family). Many of these are still practiced today (e.g.,'Xin Yi Liu He Quan').

Today's art of Xing-Yi Quan was named formally and codified by Master Li Luoneng. Li was initially a student of Dai family 'xinyi', and he is considered the 'first generation master' of Xing-Yi Quan. Xing-Yi Quan became famous by the early to mid-1800's. Several of Li's second generation masters also became quite famous during and after this time including, Liu Qilan, Che Yizhai, and Guo Yunshen. In the 1860's, Guo ventured into Beijing where he met baguazhang Master Dong Haichuan.

Baguazhang was invented by Dong Haichuan at some point during his wandering travels through China in the mid-1800's. He is considered the 'first generation master' of baguazghang. He introduced his unique circling art in Beijing in the 1860's and shortly thereafter, he was hired as a palace guard. The art remained largely sequestered in a palace setting until Dong passed away just before 1890. There, Dong evolved his baguazhang further and taught second generation palace guard, Master Yin Fu. Yin's student, Master Ma Gui, later lived and trained with Dong as a grandstudent. Ma functioned as a palace guard until the 1900 Boxer Rebellion.

Baguazhang eventually emerged into the public domain before Dong passed away. First, during his rare times in public, Dong met with an occasional second or third generation xing-yi master. One of them, Master Guo Yunshen, had the 'good fortune' to 'share' skills with Dong and make friends to promote more cross-training in the two arts. Beginning in the 1880's, while in retirment, Dong taught his baguazhang directly to a public merchant, second generation Master Cheng Tinghua. Cheng then attracted a number of famous xing-yi masters to the art, and importantly, also to Dong Haichuan.

So the very first masters of xing-yi quan and baguazhang developed them years apart as distinct and seperate arts. But by the late 1880's, a number of already famous xing-yi quan masters had become attracted to bagua zhang. And by the early 1900's, many of the masters in either art were cross-training in both xing-yi and bagua. Subsequently, the two arts have often been passed down together in many lineages. While there are distinct differences between the two arts, there are also many parallel and complementary aspects that blend well as the practitioner cross-trains.

Classes: Our classes provide new beginners with a foundation and springboard for taking up a wider study of both arts. Our core practices enable participants to develop 'internal feeling' via our martial forms and skills training. The classes enable the participant to experience how cross-training these two arts condense one's knowledge and skills into a manageable yet profound training regimen for external structure, internal feeling, and self-defense.

SATURDAY (8:30 AM-10:30 AM):
Hebei Xing-Yi: Master RW Smith & Yin Cheng Gong Fa Xing-Yi: Master Zhang Yun
JULY 25 (TENTATIVE, Pending COVID-19 Situation)

SATURDAY (10:30 AM-12:30 PM):
Taiwan Bagua: Master RW Smith & Yin Cheng Gong Fa Bagua: Master Zhang Yun
JULY 25 (TENTATIVE, Pending COVID-19 Situation)

Summer Classes:
New Market, Maryland.
E-mail link: Academic Training Traditions (att8@verizon.net)

Hebei Xing-Yi Quan (8:30-10:30am): For Xing-Yi Quan, we include: (i) basic-to-advanced study of the 5-fists forms and functions with applications; (ii) analysis of the orthodox xing-yi linking form; and (iii) basic-to-advanced study of the xing-yi 12 animal forms and functions with applications.

One can continue study of our Hebei Xing-Yi Quan sets from Taiwan (i.e., from GMs Hong Yixiang, Guo Fengchih, and Chen Panling via Mr. Smith) and from Beijing (i.e., from GM Wang Peisheng via Master Zhang Yun). These are offered mainly via private or semi-private sessions and these can be scheduled at times listed further below.

Our Hebei Xing-Yi Quan includes additional form sets to those mentioned above, including 8-hands (ba shou), 8-powers (ba shi), 12 red hammers (shi er hong chui), and a few others. All of our xing-yi sets place emphasis on core principles in the solo forms, energetics, added 2-person drills, and controlled self-defense applications practices.

Taiwan Baguazhang & Yin Cheng Gong Fa Baguazhang (10:30am-12:30pm): In our Baguazhang, we feature selected portions of the bagua zhang curricula and applications from the late Master Robert W. Smith and those from Master Zhang Yun (student of the late GM Wang Peisheng). While our Zong Yin Tang Bagua Zhang curriculum seems quite extensive with regard to the number and variety of form sets being offered, the training always adheres to a set of core basics and principles that are common to all bagua zhang systems. So, one could start with any given form set and master common core principles that will be applicable to learning any or all of the other form sets.

Our Baguazhang Sets include:

Gao Yisheng style via Taiwan from GM Zhang Junfeng via GM Hong Yixiang
(Note: As studied, learned, and researched while under the late Master RW Smith)
(i) basic tian gan/jibengong forms
(ii) 64 straight-line hou tian forms
(iii) 8 circular xian tian change set with some additional methods
Gao Yisheng style bagua represents an expanded martial educational system for understanding theory and technique relating to many other martial arts.
Study of this system under Master RW Smith underlies our own cross-training interests and our uniquely structured teaching approach to martial arts.
We note the above form sets have been researched further by us via occasional study with other masters from Taiwan, Tianjin, Beijing, and the US.
We personally and fully endorse all recognized master instructors of Gao Yisheng bagua lineages everywhere in the world.
We encourage all of our participants to seek out and pursue advanced study offered by such masters when opportunities arise.

Cheng Tinghua styles via Taiwan:
(Note: As studied, learned, and researched while under the late Master RW Smith)
(iv) variations of 8 circular xian tian changes from GMs Guo Fengchih and Wang Shujin
These are additional internal arts styles taught by the late Master RW Smith that add to the basis of our martial arts educational programs.
We are indeed fortunate and grateful to have become a part of his martial arts group and to remain a continuing friend to his family.

Cheng Tinghua, Liu Dekuan, and Yin Fu styles from GM Wang Peisheng:
(Note: As studied, learned, and researched currently under Master Zhang Yun)
(v) Cheng Tinghua style ba mu zhang (8 mother palms) and ba da zhang (8 big palms)
(vi) Liu Dekuan style 64 straight-line bagua set
(vii) Yin Fu style 64 circular bagua set
Beijing bagua styles taught by Master Zhang Yun greatly expand our martial arts educational programs.
We thank Master Zhang for his continuing input to the bagua that we teach from both Taiwan and the Beijing school.
Principles based in his Wu style taijiquan contribute significantly to the foundation of our overall teaching approach in martial arts.
We are indeed grateful to be a part of the Yin Cheng Gong Fa family system from GM Wang Peisheng as passed down via Master Zhang.
We encourage all of our participants and friends to seek out and pursue advanced study offered by Master Zhang when opportunities arise.

For the next session, we will emphasize baguazhang training as follows: (i) Beijing Yin Fu 64 baguazhang circular changes and applications for section 4, with a continuing review of sections 1, 2, and 3 (8 circular changes per section); (ii) review of the Beijing Liu style 64 bagua straight line form set with selected applications; (ii) circle walking with the 8 mother plams (ding shi); (iv) continuing review of Gao style 8 circular bagua changes and single plam change; and (v) selective review of Gao style 64 straight-line hou tian forms and basic tiangan and jibengong forms with applications. The sessions feature fundamentals for all, as well as other intermediate and advanced 2-person training methods.

In the bagua classes, you will learn the solo forms, the energetic and philosophical correspondences, and numerous two-person drills for skill development. There are also controlled martial applications practices associated with these methods, all as learned, researched, and passed on by our Zong Yin Tang Nei Jia Quan school. The beginner, intermediate, and advanced member practitioner will want to perfect these methods as means to expand their knowledge, skills, and self-defense applications.

A Note on Our Zong Yin Tang/Yin Cheng Gong Fa Wu Style Taiji Quan Program: Please see further below for details on our taijiquan curriculum for regular classes and private classes in Wu Style Taiji Quan and weaponry. This taijiquan curriculum eminates from the Yin Cheng Gong Fa tradition of the late GM Wang Peisheng via Master Zhang Yun.

Summary of the Late Master RW Smith's Internal Martial Arts Lineages:

Xing-Yi Quan Lineage:
Zhang Junfeng------>Hong Yixiang-->RW Smith
Zhang Hongching-->Guo Fengchih-->RW Smith
Guo Hanchih-------->Guo Fengchih-->RW Smith
Wu Yunting--------->Yuan Dao------->RW Smith
Chen Panling---------------------------->RW Smith
Wang Shujin----------------------------->RW Smith
These xing-yi lineages derive from Li Luoneng, Liu Qilan, Guo Yunshen, and Li Cunyi/Zhang Zhaodong/Sun Lutang/Keng Jishan

Bagua Zhang Lineage:
Gao Yisheng-->Zhang Junfeng-->Hong Yixiang-->RW Smith
Sun Lutang--->?-------------------->Guo Fengchih-->RW Smith
Zhang Zhaodong------------------->Wang Shujin--->RW Smith
Cheng Haiting/Hsu Yusheng----->Chen Panling--->RW Smith
These bagua lineages derive from Dong Haichuan and Cheng Tinghua

Taiji Quan Lineage:
Yang Luchan-->Yang Jianhou-->Yang Chengfu-->Zheng Manjing-->RW Smith
You can inquire with us to direct you to Mr. Smith's senior lineage taiji instructors for Zheng Manjing's Yang style taiji.

For reference on the late Master RW Smith:
(1) Chinese Boxing: Masters and Methods by Robert W. Smith
Kodansha International, Ltd. Tokyo, New York, San Franciso, 1974, 1980 (paperback).
(2) Hsing-I: Chinese Mind-Body Boxing by Robert W. Smith [Xing-Yi]
Kodansha International, Ltd. Tokyo, New York, San Franciso, 1974, 1981 (paperback).
(3) Pa-Kua: Chinese Boxing for Fitness and Self-Defense by Robert W. Smith [Ba Gua]
Kodansha International, Ltd. Tokyo, New York, San Franciso, 1967, 2002 (paperback).
(4) T'ai Chi: The Supreme Ultimate Exercise for Health, Sport, and Self-Defense by Cheng Manching & Robert W. Smith [Tai Ji]
Tuttle Publishing, North Clarendon, Vermont, 1967, 2004 (paperback).
(5) Cheng Tzu's Thirteen Treatises by Cheng Manching (translated by Benjaimin Lo and Martin Inn)
North Atlantic Books, Berkeley, California, 1985, 2008 (paperback).
(6) Martial Musings: A Portrayal of Martial Arts in the 20th Century by Robert W. Smith
Via Media Publishing Company, Erie, Pennsylvania, 1999.
(7) Comprehensive Asian Fighting Arts by Donn F. Draeger and Robert W. Smith
Kodansha International, Ltd. Tokyo, New York, San Franciso, 1969, 1980 (paperback).

Summary of Master Zhang Yun's Internal Arts Lineages via GM Wang Peisheng:

Xing-Yi Quan Lineage:
Li Luoneng-->Liu Qilan----->Zhang Zhaodong-->Han Muxia---->Wang Peisheng
Li Luoneng-->Che Yizhai--->Bu Xuekuan------>Zhao Runting--->Wang Peisheng

Bagua Zhang Lineage:
Dong Haichuan-->Yin Fu------------->Ma Gui------->Wang Peisheng
Dong Haichuan-->Cheng Tinghua-->Gao Kexing-->Wang Peisheng
Dong Haichuan-->Liu Dekuan------->Gao Kexing-->Wang Peisheng
Master Wang also pursued bagua lineage study with Han Muxia (from Zhang Zhaodong) and Song Shutang (from Song Yongxiang)

Taiji Quan Lineage:
Yang Luchan>Yang Banhou>Wu Quanyu>Wang Maozhai>Yang Yuting>Wang Peisheng
Master Wang was privileged to study also directly under his grandteacher, Wang Maozhai.
Master Zhang Yun began his studies with GM Wang's first disciple, Master Luo Shuhuan.
Master Zhang had the unique privilege subsequently to study directly under GM Wang for many years.
Please see below if you want to begin study in the Wu style taiji lineage of GM Wang Peisheng and Master Zhang Yun via ATT.

For reference on Master Zhang Yun:
(1) The Art of Chinese Swordsmanship: A Manual of Taiji Jian by Zhang Yun
Weatherhill. Tokyo, New York, 1998 (paperback).
(2) The Complete Taiji Dao: The Art of Chinese Saber by Zhang Yun
Blue Snake Books, Berkeley, California, 2009 (paperback).
(3) Combat Techniques of Taiji, Xingyi, and Bagua: Principles and Practices of Internal Martial Arts by Lu Shengli and Zhang Yun
(translated by Zhang Yun) Blue Snake Books, Berkeley, California, 2006 (paperback).
(4) The Taijiquan Classics: The Essential Translation and Explanation with Commentary on History and Culture by Zhang Yun
with David Ho, Peter Cappel, Susan Darley; ISBN: 978-0-578-17886-8, 2016; Lulu.com for print on demand (book is 763 pages).

Internal Martial Arts (China): Zong Yin Tang Nei Jia Quan (Taiji Quan)

Zong Yin Tang/Yin Cheng Gong Fa Wu Style Taiji Quan: We at ATT have specialized in the Yin Cheng Gong Fa Wu Style Taiji Quan system since 1997 and have gradually achieved expert level instructor status in taiji and qigong along the way under Master Zhang Yun. We have added experience with taiji extending further back with Yang style (since 1989) and more recently with Hao style (since 2009). Our teaching emphasis in Wu style taiji derives from Grandmaster Wang Peisheng. The name of his martial arts lineage (Yin Cheng Gong Fa) means the 'seal of sincerity in the martial arts', which we have pursued since 1997. We became a formal disciple of his student, Master Zhang Yun, in 2005.

Those who become members of ATT to study Wu style taiji and other YCGF arts can become associate members of YCGF under Master Zhang Yun. They may then become eligible at a later time to request to become a formal disciple in the YCGF lineage under the Zong Yin Tang lineage of ATT, and with Master Zhang Yun as grandmaster for their generation. Zong Yin Tang (of ATT) is an officially recognized and certified open-door branch [or hall] of the Yin Cheng Gong Fa family house. As indicated above, roughly translated, the ATT school name means: 'hall of the ancestor's seal (or mark) of internal family boxing', or 'hall of the lineage seal for internal family boxing'. It could also mean 'hall for following the seal of internal family boxing'.

SUNDAY (8:30 AM-9:30 AM):
Beginning Taiji Quan (This class is scheduled only by advance appointment)
JULY 26 (TENTATIVE, Pending COVID-19 Situation)

SUNDAY (9:30 AM-10:30 AM):
Wu Style Taiji Quan Basics & Grasp Bird's Tail Sequence
JULY 26 (TENTATIVE, Pending COVID-19 Situation)

SUNDAY (10:30 AM-12:30 PM):
Wu Style Taiji Quan Solo Form & Two-Person Practices
JULY 26 (TENTATIVE, Pending COVID-19 Situation)

Summer:
New Market, Maryland
E-mail link: Academic Training Traditions (att8@verizon.net)

Yin Cheng Gong Fa (YCGF): Wu Style Taiji Quan, Qigong, and Weaponry. Our classes feature Wu style taiji quan and other exercises and some of the weaponry. Beginners are welcome to all of our taiji classes. However, you may start out with your first class during the session from 8:30-9:30am (see below). Please make an appointment for the 8:30am class at least 3 to 5 days in advance for each week that you continue in the 8:30am session. After this introduction, you may want to continue by making an appointment each week for the early hour lesson (8:30-9:30am), or join in with the regular classes (9:30-10:30am and 10:30am-12:30pm).

Beginning Taiji Quan (8:30-9:30am): This class is held by appointment made for each week that you continue to attend this session. It is designed specifically for individuals who would like to begin learning about taijiquan. This instruction shows how to develop stable postural structure and how to do movements between postures. This instruction in principles and movements enables progression to more challanging taijiquan forms such as the Wu style. This class is especially important for beginning students wanting to understand taijiquan principles and movements and bridge their practice into the Wu style taijiquan form.

Wu Style Taiji Quan Basics & Grasp Bird's Tail (9:30-10:30am): The first hour of the regular class is devoted to the study of Wu style taiji basics from the 'grasp bird's tail' sequence, including some qigong. We detail the opening sequence of Wu Style Taiji form (Grasp Bird's Tail) and its variations for health, energetics, two-person practices, and martial applications. This session is suitable also for new beginners from the 8:30am session to train in post standing and in the dynamic transitions of the opening sequence. The 'grasp bird's tail' sequence (and its variations) are taught to augment health, body structure, and alignment for 2-person training, and study of the 37-posture Wu style form set. These practices are important also for beginning students wanting to make progress and participate in the full class where the 37-posture form is detailed.

Wu Style Taiji Quan Solo Form, Two-Person Practices, and Weaponry (10:30am-12:30pm). The subsequent 2-hours of regular Sunday class are mainly for those students who can practice the entire Wu style 37-posture taiji form. This class features the full 37-posture form with controlled martial applications practice, along with the practice of Wu style push-hands sets, various aspects of body testing for postural framing in applications, and selected standing and dynamic qigong exercises. Weather permitting, we often train outdoors to include study of taiji sword (jian) and saber (dao).

Summary of Master Zhang Yun's Taiji Quan Lineage via GM Wang Peisheng:

Footnotes:

(1) Please e-mail ATT directly if you would like to join and certify in all or part of the ATT/Zong Yin Tang internal arts curriculum described above. Again, we represent both Mr. Smith's Taiwan xingyi and bagua lineages, and Master Zhang's YCGF xingyi and bagua lineages. We offer both together under our ATT curriculum. At present, we offer formal lineage taiji instruction only in the YCGF Wu style. For those of you who may be interested in further specialization in the Zheng Manjing Yang style taiji passed down through Mr. Smith, we can help direct you to several contacts of ours who are the most qualified senior taiji instructors in his taiji lineage.

(2) Please e-mail ATT separately if you would like to include a Wu style taiji quan extension program in your martial arts or health educational program.

(3) Please e-mail ATT separately if you would like to include a xingyi quan and/or bagua zhang extension program in your martial arts or health educational program (e.g., see below for the Shuri-Te group).

E-mail: Academic Training Traditions (att8@verizon.net)

Martial Arts and Health Education Extension Programs

Shuri-Te Extension Program for Xing-Yi Quan & Bagua Zhang

ATT extension programs have been fostering selective cross-training in the Chinese Internal Martial Arts of Xing-Yi Quan and Ba Gua Zhang for members of the Shuri-Te Bujutsu Kai organization under Kyoshi Troy J. Price. We note that this internal arts extension program focuses only on the two arts of Xing-Yi Quan and Ba Gua Zhang for adaptation into the Shuri-Te group. Paul is a Member Kyoshi in the group faculty, and serves currently with Kyoshi Price as a Head Instructor in the Xing-Yi Quan and Ba Gua Zhang Division of the Shuri-Te Bujutsu Kai.

The curriculum design for this xingyi and bagua program was developed by ATT to serve as a martial arts educational extension program. This program was created and has been operational with Kyoshi Price since 2008, and was defined more formally in May 2015. In support of this program, ATT is sharing the segment of the Zong Yin Tang xingyi and bagua curriculum derived from the Taiwan lineages of the late Master Robert W. Smith. ATT augments the Shuri-Te instruction also with references to added internal principles on xingyi and bagua learned under Master Zhang Yun. Kyoshi Price introduces additional components and requirements into this program that are based on his experiences with these arts, and on his own multi-art specialties including jujutsu, karate, and combative flow system.

We note here that internal arts student and instructor advancements in Shuri-Te xingyi and bagua remain an extension of the Shuri-Te Bujutsu Kai under Kyoshi Price, with input from Paul as a Head Instructor. Such advancements are specific to the Shuri-Te group. They require student membership in that group, and will usually require added active participation in some portion of their current curricula involving Shuri-Te Jujutsu, Shuri-Ryu Karate, and Combative Flow. You can inquire with us about joining the Shuri-Te (Shou Li Shou) Xing-Yi Quan and Bagua Zhang Program through a local Shuri-Te group in the greater DC area, or though one of the many Shuri-Te groups across the Carolinas and elsewhere in the USA (Contact: Troy J. Price, Kyoshi, Shuri-Te Bujutsu Kai)

Shuri-Te Extension Program for Xing-Yi Quan & Bagua Zhang
(Kingstowne Shitoryu Dojo, Alexandria, Virginia)

Photo above (December, 2017) shows representative members of the Kingstowne Shito-Ryu Karate Club (Alexandria, Virginia) with their Instructor, Sensei Brian Oviatt, Godan (5th Dan). Sensei Oviatt (centered) is also a member of the Shurite Bujutsu Kai where he is a Yondan (4th Dan) in jujutsu under Kyoshi Troy Price. Sensei Oviatt is ranked currently as Yi Duan (1st Dan) and is an Assistant Instructor (Xianbei I) under Kyoshi Cote and Price in the Shurite Xing-Yi and Bagua extension program. Brian regularly sponsors Kyoshi Cote for monthly training sessions in these two arts. We often also cover 'cross-training' relationships of these arts to karate for his intermediate youth group.

Zong Yin Tang Baguazhang Extension Program
(Dragon Gym, Downingtown, Pennsylavania)

Recently (2019), we initiated a seasonal ATT extension program for baguazhang (under Zong Yin Tang) with The Dragon Gym Internal Arts Group under Sensei Al Tolbert and Shifu John Armstrong in Downingtown, Pa (standing back row center). Also attending this event was YCGF brother, Shifu Rex McCoy (right of me), and Isshinryu brother, Kyoshi Jon Marmon, 7th Dan (far right). Many thanks for your help and insights during this seminar. This photo was taken by Isshinryu sister, Sensei Breanne Decker, 4th Dan (not shown), who attended with Kyoshi Marmon.

Monthly and Seasonal Extension Teaching, 2020:
See listing below for locations/contacts.

(1) Tuesday (6:00-8:00pm): Kingstowne Karate Training/Shuri-Te Xingyi & Bagua
Monthly Training Sessions: May 26, June 30
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Kingstowne club invitees only.
Brian Oviatt, 5th Dan Shito-ryu, 4th Dan Shuri-te jujutsu, 2nd Dan Tae Kwon Do, 1st Dan Shuri-Te Xingyi Quan & Baguazhang
Inquire with Sensei Oviatt about his Shito-Ryu Karate and Shuri-Te Jujutsu groups to join the Shuri-Te Xingyi & Bagua program
(Kingstowne Family Karate, Alexandria, Virginia)

(2) Sunday (9:30am-12:00noon): Dragon Gym Baguazhang/ATT Extension Program
(CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
(Cheng Style Baguazhang: circle walking, circle changes, palm transitions to application)
Dragon Gym Baguazhang Program: ATT Extension Program.
Sensei Alfred Tolbert, 3rd Dan Tae Kwon Do/Taiji Instructor & Sifu John Armstrong, Chinese Internal Martial Arts/Gong Fu
Inquire via Alfred Tolbert (ajtol@verizon.net) about his Martial Arts and Health Programs
(Downingtown, Pa.)

(3) Other Seasonal Extension Teaching, 2020: This year, we will offer classes and seminars in Xingyi & Bagua along with other ATT-related instruction in Isshinryu karate. See our News and Previous Events page for prior extension teaching.

(i) March 5-7: Shorinkan Winter Camp, Hampton, Virginia for an extended weekend of karate, kobudo, and cross-training of internal arts sponsored by Kyoshi Clint Green (with Kyoshi Pat Haley and Hanshi Doug Perry).

(ii) March 8-11: visit Fort Mill, SC and work with Kyoshi Troy Price on Shuri-te educational projects.

(iii) October 23-25: Shuri-te Bujutsu Kai International Conference, Fort Mill, South Carolina. Teaching baguazhang and xing-yi quan at this conference.

Check back later for more events.

Isshinryu Karate and Kobudo (Okinawa)

Isshinryu Karate Club Lineage and Dojos

ATT Isshinryu Karate is certified via the Isshinryu World Karate Association (IWKA) under Master Kichiro Shimabuku, Judan.
ATT maintains affiliation and IWKA certification through the Penn State Karate Club Alumni under Hanshi Dane Sutton, Kudan.

Sensei Paul J. Cote, Kyoshi, Hachidan (8th Dan), IWKA
Head Instructor, ATT Isshinryu Karate and Kobudo
Senior Club Advisor & Examiner
Penn State Karate Club Alumni under Hanshi Dane Sutton

ATT is affiliated locally with the Takoma Isshinryu Karate Club (Takoma, Maryland) and the Kent Gardens Isshinryu Karate Club (McLean, Virginia) as a senior advisor and instructor. ATT also is affiliated locally with NOVA Isshinryu club, founded by Kyoshi Jim Miller and Kyoshi Ralph Miller, where we teach on occassion. See classes under our Calendar. If you need further information on our karate lineage, or on how to join a specific club of ours, then click on the blue club link above. Contact us directly at ATT (or the respective dojo head instructors) for further information on joining these clubs to begin taking advantage of the monthly training sessions.

Note: karate sessions listed below are open to club members only.

(ALL CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)

NOVA Isshinryu Karate Training and Evaluations (Fri, 7:30-9:30pm)
(NOVA IK Club, Burke, Virginia) Monthly:

Kent Gardens Isshinryu Karate Training and Evaluations (Tues, 6:45-8:15pm)
(Kent Gardens IK Club, McLean, Virginia) Monthly:

Takoma Park Isshinryu Karate Training and Evaluations (Mon, 7:00-8:30pm)
(Takoma IK Club, Takoma Park, Maryland) Monthly:

PSKC/Penn State Karate Club Training and Evaluations (Fri, 7:00-9:30pm)
(PSKC, State College, Pa) Quarterly:

Upcoming Events: Please check back later

Recent Past Events:

Bi-Annual Seminar: Karate Club Promotions & Seminars, Takoma Park, Maryland. March 21, 2020; 1:00pm-5:00pm (POSTPONED UNTIL FALL 2020, Pending COVID-19 Situation)

Bi-Annual Seminar: Karate Club Promotions & Seminars, McLean, Virginia. Sept 28, 2019; 11:30am-5:30pm

Black Belt Kobudo Evaluations and Seminar: Takoma Park, Maryland. Aug 10, 2019; 1:00pm-5:00pm

Bi-Annual Seminar: Karate Club Promotions & Seminars, Springfield, Virginia. March 23, 2019; 11:30am-5:30pm

Kid's Karate Seminar: Sponsored by Kyoshi Jim Miller and Renshi Mami Gebereegziabher, McLean, Virginia. March 2, 2019; 1:30am-4:00pm.

Bi-Annual Seminar: Karate Club Promotions & Seminars, Kent Gardens, McLean, Virginia. September 29, 2018; 11:30am-5:30pm

Kid's Karate Seminar: Sponsored by Kyoshi Jim Miller and Renshi Mami Gebereegziabher, McLean, Virginia. April 7, 2018; 9:30am-12:30pm.

Bi-Annual Seminar: Karate Club Promotions & Seminars, West Springfield, Virginia. March 24, 2018; 1:00-5:00pm

Events and Clinics - Academic Training Traditions Isshinryu Okinawan Karate and Kobudo: Teaching pending monthly karate classes at Takoma, Kent Gardens, NOVA, and Penn State in January-March, 2020. The scheduled monthly training sessions involve kata and kobudo reviews and evaluations. Sessions are generally open only to club members or by invitation only from the respective dojo head instructors.

About ATT Open Karate Clinics: Contact us directly at ATT about offering a monthly or bi-monthly karate clinic or seminar at your dojo. Open clinics are for club memebers and any non-club members from any style of martial art. They feature general training in karate methods, and so your style of karate is not an issue. We do conduct clinics in certified orthodox Isshinryu Karate, for the novice, intermediate, and advanced practitioner, but we also can incorporate a number of advanced training methods from other martial arts styles that are highly relevant to all karate styles. Many of these methods are based on my 46 years experience with karate, and 33 years of cross-training in the Chinese internal martial arts. You will definitely learn many new ways to apply your traditional kata, and the principles upon which these applications are based. Karate practitioners can develop more power, using integrated muscular recruitment developed through the application of proven methods that refine your root and body alignments for generating such power. Practitioners of internal martial arts can further discover some of the higher level fighting applications and principles inherent to karate kata.

All belt or sash ranks from all styles are welcome to open ATT clinics. For open clinics, formal uniforms can be worn, and any belt or sash that you are entitled to wear. Gi pants and T-shirts are also acceptable.

Private Martial Arts and Health Education Studies (2020)

Xing-Yi Quan, Bagua Zhang, Taiji Quan, Karate, Health/Wellness-Related
(ALL CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Please inquire additionally about training in oriental weaponry.
ATT private classes in New Market, Maryland are by appointment only and times depend on availability at the time you call.
Please inquire also about private seminars at your site or institution (minimum of 6 to 8 participants required).

E-mail link: Academic Training Traditions (att8@verizon.net)

These classes are open to qualified individuals pursuing studies in the Chinese internal martial arts and Okinawan karate. The classes can complement or extend those offered through regularly scheduled group classes. These private classes are about what you feel you need to learn. They are especially geared for those who want private training in the very basics and fundamentals of these art forms in order to build their foundation for: (i) entering regular group classes, (ii) continuing in regular classes to achieve a more advanced level of skill, and (iii) cross-training to blend with the martial art that they study.

In our sessions here, we will continue to teach private (and semi-private) classes in xing-yi quan for individuals wishing to begin with this art form, or to extend their study of this art form. We will also provide studies to begin, extend, or complement your studies in bagua zhang and taiji quan. Will will also feature studies in Okinawan karate basics and kata for all levels. Although these classes are intended for the study of martial arts forms, techniques, and applications, we will also consider your wishes to accomodate beginning to advanced study for awareness, health, and wellness. Please inquire by e-mail about private and semi-private tuition on site at ATT.

Days and Times for Private Martial Arts and Health Education Study
(ALL CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
Please inquire about training dates and times that are still available
Please inquire also about training in Chinese and Okinawan weaponry and about classes for your group at these times
We will also offer instruction with emphasis on health & wellness education in 2020
Private sessions are available for ATT members or non-members
Most Saturdays (1:00-5:00 PM); most Sundays (1:00-5:00 PM); times available on weekends via appointment only
Daytime Weekdays: Mon thru Fri (9:00 AM-12:00 PM; 1:00 PM-4:00 PM); times available on weekdays via appointment only
Evening Weekdays: Mon,Tues,Thurs,Fri (6:00-9:00 PM); times available on weekday evenings via appointment only
Note: times and dates open for private training will depend on monthly trainings scheduled elsewhere
(ATT, New Market, Maryland)

Please inquire by e-mail about private seminars or evening classes for your group or institution at your site.
[minimum of 6 to 8 participants required depending on your choice of art form(s) to be covered].

Mind-Body Workshops

Click on blue navigator link below for interest area to jump and read more about our classes.

Martial Arts Mind-Body Workshops (you are here) Life Science Tutorials

Kai Xin Dao (KXD) T'ai Chi (Taiji) and Qigong (Ch'i Kung) for Health

See our Calendar Summary for Sponsored Mind-Body Classes for Spring 2020 (listed in Calendar).
Fall, Winter, and Spring classes are sponsored by Hagerstown Community College and are held on Wednesday evenings.
Sponsored classes feature KXD t'ai chi and ch'i kung and some classical Wu style t'ai chi for health and wellness.

Please inquire further with us by e-mail about KXD tai chi (and qigong) courses that will run starting this winter in January at locations in the Maryland/DC/Northern Virginia area. We developed several KXD venues since 2003. We usually do not post all of our locations and schedules on this website, but we can provide additional contact information and further description of each course if you inquire by e-mail for an activity near your area. Please inquire by e-mail about tuition for private KXD seminars or evening classes for your group or institution [minimum of 6 to 8 participants required for KXD group seminars].

E-mail link: Academic Training Traditions (att8@verizon.net)

Kai Xin Dao (Happy Way) Tai Chi and Qigong: Come to our KXD classes and enjoy an introduction to the basic postures and movements and mind-body aspects of taiji quan (t'ai chi ch'uan) and qigong (ch'i kung). As mind-body exercise systems, tai chi and qigong are all about the maintenance of correct posture and balance through slow movements, coordinated breath, and mental attention. Attend classes often and build your awareness for regular daily activities, or use the course as a primer to develop improved states of sensitivity, meditation, and awareness. See our information under the 'Mind-Body' icon for our approach to the practice of taiji quan for bridging health and martial arts, and on using traditional and modern biomedical approaches to communicate this art. Kai Xin Dao tai chi classes also include elements of qigong and yoga relaxation methods.

KXD tai chi is a much simplified approach to learning tai chi that was developed by Academic Training Traditions. In this approach, the art and practice of tai chi are communicated using modern biomedical principles, recent published studies of research on tai chi, and the relationship of these activities to traditional meanings. The KXD methods include selected easy-to-do postures from several traditional tai chi form routines. These include our primer form methods and the grasp bird's tail from Wu style tai chi. Some postures are modified slightly so that they are easy to do for most people, and so they can ultimately build toward doing the regular postures. More postures can be added as one progresses. Advanced practitioners in other styles may find the KXD methods useful for possible applications in biomedical research approaches and for special needs groups. As always, please wear comfortable clothing and either tai chi shoes or athletic shoes.

Footnote: If you are interested instead in becoming a student of t'ai chi with more emphasis as a martial art, please see our martial arts class schedule above, or click on our 'Martial Arts' icon at the top of the page and then click on the Yin Cheng Gong Fa tab.

Life Science Tutorials

Click on blue navigator link below for interest area to jump and read more about our classes.

Martial Arts Mind-Body Workshops Life Science Tutorials (you are here)

Please inquire with Academic Training Traditions about sponsoring a lecture or seminar for your group in the life sciences that relate to biological sciences and biomedical research, behavior and lifestyle, and embodied education. This coming semester, we are continuing to offer lectures and seminars as life science tutorials. The specific academic areas relate to biological sciences and biomedical research in human physiology and in diseases caused by viruses. We craft our lectures specifically for adult audiences of all backgrounds. Please check with us by e-mail to inquire about current ATT lectures and seminars that feature aspects of human physiology.

Lectures/Seminars

ALL CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Important Footnote:
The lectures, seminars, and courses offered by ATT in various academic areas are for infomational purposes only.
The lectures, seminars, and courses offered by ATT do not constitute paid professional consultations or medical advice in any way.
Please always seek out your own consultants on matters of your business interests and commerce.
Please always consult your personal physician for all matters relating to your personal health and well-being and that of others.

Academic Training Traditions® is a registered tradename of Academic Training Services, Inc. All website contents are Copyright © 2005-2020 by Academic Training Services, Inc., and Paul J. Cote. All rights reserved. Please request permission in writing to copy or use contents of this website.