Authentic Kung Fu with Adam Hsu

About Adam Hsu: World-renowned as an acknowledged top level teacher and also scholar of the martial arts, Adam Hsu has the distinction of also being fully dedicated to their promotion. He has unflinchingly sacrificed to engender a deeper understanding of Chinese martial arts through his numerous books, articles and seminars. The head of the TWA (Traditional Wushu Association), Hsu Shihfu has played a major part in the preservation authentic Wushu skills.

Welcome to the Adam Hsu Kung Fu School

It was inevitable that, at some time, a “virtual” martial arts studio—or many of them—would be established. But luck was with us in that the teacher who did it is one of the top authorities on CMA to ever bring his talents to the west. Now Adam Hsu, a noted instructor, has begun a series of martial DVDs offering a new depth to the study that no series has yet equalled.

His first offerings are already outstanding in their depth and breadth, adding lectures, discussions, history, usage, applications, exercises and technical points on each topic covered. Using multiple DVDs, teacher Hsu gives you some experience of his excellent teaching method. Always the complete instructor, he fills in the blanks so many others leave gaping. It is impossible to listen to his instruction without realizing that he is giving more than information, freeing each subject by making the student see the potential for adaptation, variation and customization. All this is to say that when you learn from someone who has authority on a subject, you generally develop some authority yourself. Adam Hsu shares our view that real Kung Fu training is in danger of disappearing while, simultaneously, it is standing before a portal of what could be an information renaissance on the subject. And the subject is worth the effort.

OH NO!! Just got notice that this is out of print. If you still want a copy, let us know and we'll keep an eye out if it returns.

The twin-bladed sword is the cutting edge of Kung Fu. In such traditional sword routines we see the spirits of techniques that remain as functional as anything 1000 years ago.

In many ways, this new volume on the San Cai Sword by the well-respected Sifu Adam Hsu carries much of this knowledge forward. And, just as doubled as the blade, the twins of beauty and of usage are both here. The gray scaled cover is beautifully designed and acts as a perfect companion to the 4-box set of DVDs on the same subject. Inside, we find some rarely exhibited warmups and stretches using the Jian as a measure followed, logically, by the presentation of single blows and blocks. The photos are nicely done in this book, which is a contrast of black, white and grey.

As a bonus, this book shows Hsu Sifu performing in both the single person routine and the partner set. A recommended addition to a traditional martial library.

If you order with Hsu Sifu's DVDs on San Cai Sword, you will get a 10% discount on this book.

If you order with either of Hsu Sifu's DVDs on Tan Tui, you will get a 10% discount on this book.

NEW! KL018 Life is too Short for Bad Kung Fu
by Adam Hsu
332 Pages, softbound, English language
Illustrated with photographs, including Sifu Hsu demonstrating Goose Feather Saber
Regular price: $38.95, Plum Price $34.95

DECEMBER SALE (through December 17): $29.95; Purchase with Lone Sword (below) and get the set for $45.

Over its 5000 year history, Kung Fu as an art has met adversity.

For instance, 250 years ago it exited the battlefield due to the introduction of “hot” weapons, and in doing so, it retreated from its core purpose. Its shift into civilian life meant that historically brilliant strategies scaled for war morphed into self-defense techniques for individuals; the renowned stamina of soldiers, which required daily regimens for strength training, transformed into individual concerns of health and longevity. Its examination became the work of scholars instead of generals.

Even so, Kung Fu thrived, experiencing intermittent periods of sophisticated growth and attention. Teachers taught—great, and otherwise; students trained—both frivolously and seriously; styles developed; Kung Fu’s myths and legends expanded. Expertise travelled outside of China—mostly through the hands of laborers and cooks who scattered to every country—but also to those foreigners who visited and took up with teachers practicing in their own dusty courtyards. People without previous experience picked up weapons—once battlefield tested, now used for training and entertainment—to carry Kung Fu forward. Information was both shared and withheld. Knowledge was gained, and also lost.

Today, Kung Fu suffers another existential challenge—this one potentially fatal. The combination of new wealth and advanced technology threatens to supplant the traditional power that comes from touching hands. Simply said, as daily existence grows easier, the ability to focus and sustain authentic practice becomes harder. 

In this book, world-renowned martial arts teacher and writer Adam Hsu, proclaims his expert reckonings on the state of Kung Fu. For over six decades, he has acted as one of Kung Fu’s greatest proponents and contributors, as well as one of its greatest critics. In “Life Is Too Short For Bad Kung Fu”—his first English text in more than 10 years—Hsu Sifu employs aphorisms, boldly and honestly evaluating Wushu's perilous path toward its questionable future. He focuses on current-day training, teaching and practice, offering harsh criticism as well as genuine solutions. He never swerves from the foundational, millennial idea of basics as Kung Fu’s true power. He is not shy about reiterating their importance, nor about the ways they are disappearing from the traditional curriculum. Like a doctor watching a patient slip away, he is neither calm nor sentimental in his many attempts to keep Kung Fu alive.

There are those whose excitement will lead them to sit down and read this book cover to cover. To our mind, it is better appreciated in small and measured draughts—there is so much to consider—both inspirations and warnings—and the aphorism format is perfect for separating each idea into thoughtful portions.

Read an insightful review of this book

NEW! DVD 24903 The Secret File of Ba-Gua Zhang Volume #3
4 disk set (over 7 hrs of instructions)
Chinese language subtitled in English

It’s hard to write an objective review when the information comes from your own teacher who is also one of the field’s top writers. So I decided to not even try.

Hsu begins with the animal palms, the traditional start to Bagua learning, and sets the rules for posture, locomotion and 8 hand positions. He enlivens the discussion with comments and insights rarely addressed by others.

Plum offers many Bagua series which teach footwork, empty handed forms, applications, weapons etc. But what I find both prominent and unique about this series is the dynamic interaction of its segments. Adam Hsu’s approach is different.  His method uses the core Eight Changing Palms—which he teaches on these DVDs—to take you through different skill sets, all foundational to Bagua. Having learned the Eight Changing Palms, you will use that base of information to practice Bagua Poles, Partner Training, and Applications, all returning to the Eight Changing Palms themselves. And that is one of the ways in which Bagua is truly circular.

Breakdown of Four Disk Series

Volume #1 – 104 minutes. Introduces a lot of information on theory, goals, and characteristics of real Bagua training. Sifu Hsu shows and discusses the Inner and Outer training Palms. He correlates these to the animals and the organs. Then 1-5 of the core Changing Palms of the core Eight Palms is taught.

Volume #2 – 102 minutes
Sixth through Eighth Palms
Changing Palms Discussion
Each of the Eight Changing Palms demonstrated by Adam Hsu himself with further points
Discussion on BGZ names and styles

Volume #3 – 112 minutes
Every Changing Palm deconstructed and conditioned by striking the poles (both sides)
Changing Palm Post Training through Palm Eight
Post Training conclusion
Two Person Palm Training
Two Person Penetrating Palm
Two Person Sticking Palm
Two Person Circling Palm
Two Person Group Demonstrations

Volume #4 – 117 minutes
Application of all Eight Palms
A long discussion on the principles of real Kung Fu and its relation to Bagua.

Volume 3 (7 + hours) 24903 reg $140, Plum price: $120

But wait, there's more!
~ Order any of Adam Hsu's earlier DVDs on Bagua (below)—#21011, #21012 and #21013—along with these new DVDs, and get 20% off of the earlier DVD(s). Use coupon "BaguaHsu" (without the quotations).

~Order Secret File of Bagua Zhang Volumes #1, 2 and 3 and get an ADDITIONAL 10% discount on these. All discounts will be taken in the shopping cart.

DVD 24901 & 24902 The Secret File of Ba-Gua Zhang
2 Volumes, can be purchased separately or as a set. See prices below.
Each volume contains 3 discs (over 3 hrs per volume)
Chinese language subtitled in English

This new, comprehensive series on BGZ (Bagua Zhang) is presented by teacher Adam Hsu in two volumes, each containing three DVDs. What is exceptional about this presentation is that longtime teacher Hsu has gone for the juice, offering a presentation that can benefit any BGZ player, no matter the style.

The first three DVDs of Volume One concentrate on background and principles. The information and demonstrations are profound, explaning essentials. He starts with the lineage including Gong Bao Tian, who learned directly from Yin Fu and developed some rare techniques. It is here that we get a preview of the his pole technique and a new form of pracicing with marine ropes.

Next, Adam Hsu makes a strong case for the differences between BGZ and other martial arts. BGZ is a fairly late development, so Adam Hsu explains key differences, levels of torsion, special Nei Gong to enhance the movements, some ways of thinking entirely unique to BGZ.  
Following are three very unusual exercises, definitely BGZ, to loosen the spine, and coax more motion out of the hips, for walking practice. All of these relatively unknown Bagua training regimens originate with Gong Bao Tian, and all of them are surprising.
 
Volume One also contains a discussion on internal training, with breathing and methods to deepen practice. For people with a martial background, Hsu Sifu’s approach is commonsensical and direct—without even the need to believe in qi—and focuses on the role of intent. I think people will be refreshed by it, because it is so simple and so honest. Hsu also introduces the qi discussion on the famous three levels (heaven, earth and mankind) so basic to BGZ training.

In Volume Two, Adam Hsu advances many ideas from Part One. He also shows certain aspects of this system that you cannot find anywhere, even mainland China. We now see much deeper into the anatomy of stepping. He introduces scissors stepping with correct leg movements. He shows a Square Step, important for hip control. He adds a Triangle step for tight movement and the wall-turning exercises of Volume #1. 

Returning to the San Cai (Three Levels) he adds a specific hand position to each of the three levels, linking each level with a portion of the torso. Then he coordinates these with three forms of stepping pattern. This San Cai practice alone could offer months of training. The first three postures in this section are absolutely foundational.

Next comes palm training, with actual marching locomotion. Hsu Sifu doesn’t demonstrate a great deal on other people, but here you do not need it—the applications are quite clear. He shows the Palm training with all major hand positions, and full body actions with the palm changing on each strike. He introduces a number of these crucial techniques, core movements for BGZ training: chopping, throwing, raising, etc.

Then he introduces the Four Hands (Guen, Zhuan, Zheng, Guo)  Pattern. This valuable training method hooks the body up with the arms in a continuous loop. This training is rarely seen outside this lineage. In this seemingly simple circular exercise you move your hand through four different positons all with appropriate waist and back actions. People often try to do this but fail making the proper connection and therefore cannot match hands to their legs. Here we have five different versions (two of which I’ve never even seen before) of this lively exercise, each requiring different torso techniques. The Four Hands is the kind of practice you might keep up through your entire martial career.

Finally, there is an extended section on how to work the BGZ posts. I rarely use the word “amazing” but the BGZ posts might make the Wing Chun dummy look like a broomstick. The first time I saw this I said, “You could practice years on this.” Hsu Sifu said, “You could practice your whole life on this.” Sifu Adam Hsu shows various ways to work a group of three—with just hands, moving from post to post, setting up the posts, spacing them, their use for posture. Incredibly, it is a whole system onto itself.

True to his basic premise, Adam Hsu adds two very important features to this double series. First, he put the material in the right order, with the usage of the movements coming first and the emphasis on the type of basics that really can make or break your skills. Second, he gives much more background—not just stories of magical prowess, rather the guiding principles that make Bagua what it is.

Volume 1 (3 + hours) 24901 reg $105, Plum price: $95

Volume 2 (3 + hours) 24902 reg $105, Plum price: $95

Volumes 1 & 2 (6 + hours) reg $210, Plum price $180

But wait, there's more! Order any of Adam Hsu's earlier DVDs on Bagua (below)—#21011, #21012 and #21013—along with these new DVDs, and get 20% off of the earlier DVD(s). Use coupon "BaguaHsu" (without the quotations).

Baji Quan (Eight Ultimates Boxing)

BaJi Quan is said to date back hundreds of years and has traditionally only been used by the Emperor's imperial guards. This powerful form of Kung Fu projects energy forward like a canon. This approach to BaJi comes directly from Li Shu Wen the most famous modern master of the style. The same man whose students served as bodyguards to Mao Tse- Tung (Li Chen-Wu), Chiang Kai-Shek (Liu Yun Chiao) and the last Emperor, Pu-Yee (Ho Tien-Kuo). Adam Hsu is in direct lineage through another famous BaJi teacher, Liu Yun Chiao. See biographical information on the teachers.

BaJi is one of our favorite styles. And no wonder. Powerful, fluid and incredibly simple while being truly beautiful at the same time, Eight Ultimates (BaJi) captures your attention from the first moment you see it .

Baji is known throughout China as an extremely effective form, it is often called "The Bodyguard Style". Ba Ji is based on driving force and exquisite body mechanics gleaned from the actions of the Tiger and the Bear. See more about this style.

At the end of 2015, Sifu Adam Hsu came out with the first DVD collection in his Baji Thunder series, Foundations (#24896, below.) His goal was to truly teach the great style, Bajiquan, not just as he learned it from Wutan Grandmaster Liu Yun Chiao, but also by adding to the instruction from his own contribution to teaching of over 50 years.

We are happy to announce the second Development (#24897) and third volume Advanced (#24898) completing the series. All in all, this amounts to 14 DVDs (over 16 hours) and, in our modest estimation, about 2-3 years of training.

Hsu Sifu's method and information make this one of the most complete presentations we have ever seen on any style . Even more than that, his approach—focusing on training and usage—continues to remind us that form and routine develop from the qualities gained by understanding a style's structure, not the other way around. Timing, shape, feedback and spirit—these are just a few of the primary qualities we must practice to make the martial experience unique.

In our opinion, this series demonstrates not only how Bajiquan should be taught, but how all traditional Chinese martial arts should be apprehended. We even believe that these DVDs will improve your martial arts whatever style you practice, because it reinforces the way to study, not just the study itself. For the price of about five months of lessons here is at least three years work. This is one of the few instances I can honestly say that if I were asked about studying from videos or studying with a good local practitioner/teacher, I would probably advise buying the DVDs.

DVD 24896 Baji Thunder: Foundations: Xiao BaJi
Chinese language subtitled in English

This first set of 7 DVDs uses Xiao Baji as its central form. However Sifu Hsu, in over 8 hours of instruction, gives much more than just form instruction. This is a thorough introduction to the entire style of Bajiquan, divided up into three main topics: Basic Training (Top Secret,) Baji Jia (Indoor Skill,) and Application (Real Usage.) Spread over these 7 disks is history, 'real' basics and their meaning, three levels of power, training methods, Baji energies, form instruction and, of course, authentic usage derived from the principles, not the form.

For a comprehensive index of these contents, CLICK HERE.

7 discs (over 8 hrs.) for $210.00 retail, PLUM price $185.00
Order any three sets from the "virtual studio" series for an additional 10% discount (discount shown in shopping cart)

Order either or both of Adam Hsu's earlier DVD on Baji (#21004 and #21005) along with this new DVD, and get 20% off of the earlier DVD(s). Use coupon "Dabaji" (without the quotations)

DVD 24897 Baji Thunder: Development: Da Baji
Chinese language subtitled in English

Continuing with his major presentation of Baji Quan, Sifu Adam Hsu presents a three DVD course all devoted to Baji's most popular form: Da Baji or Big Baji.

The saying goes that the first form, Xiao Baji, is a "dead" or "structure" form and that Da Baji is a "live" form. Rather than emphasizing posture and structure, Da Baji introduces the fundamental fighting actions of the style, not to mention being a form beautiful for its simplicity. Not only does Adam Hsu give background, principles, goals and methods but he takes you back to traditional culture of Kung Fu by concentrating his excellent teaching method on the meaning and mastery of the movements, with the order and elaborations of the form as relatively insignificant. Not a simple empty-handed form instruction, the series is aimed at setting you not he road to high level Baji while also firming the foundation of your entire martial experience.

There is a fine point to be made here:: Hsu Sifu has done something almost unprecendented in this offering: he has chosen to NOT give typical instruction for the actual Da Baji form. To emphasize: there is no step-by-step instruction—plant your foot here, punch there, etc. Instead, Hsu has used this most important form to teach how to do Baji. He teaches not only each move, but the variations, methods and rationale for each move. Stringing them together into a form, given all this information, is the easy part.

Many practitioners, especially those with intermediate or advanced martial experience, will be able to use the many included form demonstrations, along with the foundational instruction, to learn the set. Or, even easier, is to pick up Hsu Sifu's earlier DVD on Da Baji (information and discount info below) where he does teach this form step by step.

It is almost impossible to emphasize the importance of the lesson here: forms are important, but principles of usage are fundamental. Form derives from principle, usage is born from structure.

For a comprehensive index of the contents, CLICK HERE.

3 discs (about 3 hrs.) for $105.00 PLUM price $90.00
Order any three sets from the "virtual studio" series for an additional 10% discount (discount shown in shopping cart)

Order either or both of Adam Hsu's earlier DVD on Baji (#21004 and #21005) along with this new DVD, and get 20% off of the earlier DVD(s). Use coupon "Dabaji" (without the quotations)

 

DVD 24898 Baji Thunder: Advanced: Liu Da Kai and Ba Da Shi
Chinese language subtitled in English

Liu Da Kai (Six Big Openings) and Ba Shi (Eight Shapes) are two the treasures of Baji style. This Third Series, of the comprehensive course taught by world-famous practitioner, Adam Hsu, concentrates on the core of Baji; the hands-on training. In this series pole work and partner work are brought to a new high.

Two rare selections—Liu Da Kai and Ba Da Shi—are shown and explained. As though making his point about forms and training for him, both belong to “half-form and half-training” category which Sifu Hsu has talked about from the very first disk. It is here,through marching practice of some complex techniques, where you acquire Baji’s distinct flavor and power. Each powerful action explodes with a retort as loud as a cannon…or a peal of thunder. This is the heart and soul of the art and caps enough information for even an avid practitioner.

For a comprehensive index of the contents, CLICK HERE.

4 discs (about 3 hrs.) for $140.00 PLUM price $120.00
Order any three sets from the "virtual studio" series for an additional 10% discount (discount shown in shopping cart)

Order either or both of Adam Hsu's earlier DVD on Baji (#21004 and #21005) along with this new DVD, and get 20% off of the earlier DVD(s). Use coupon "Dabaji" (without the quotations)

 

DVD 24895 New!! Three Steps of Tan Tui
by Adam Hsu (Hsu Ji)
Chinese language subtitled in English

In this single disk presentation Adam Hsu deals with a question that troubles many martial students. Why can’t they fight their forms? What is the secret of unlocking the applications of a classical form?

From the point of view of a life spent teaching Chinese martial arts, Sifu Hsu has observed that the ability to adapt, to change up, to recombine is missing from most students' experiences.

This DVD featuring both demonstration and lecture starts with some small additions to the regular Tan Tui form, such as special steps, which instantly add a dimension of reality. Angular movements are also introduced into this typically linear form. Then, for a real challenge, the order of the roads is altered in a series of variations, exposing the core meaning of the form while simultaneously transforming it into an entirely new and flexible series of movements.

Modern, over-simplified training gives the impression that such essential, creative approaches are forbidden. As Sifu Adam Hsu so clearly exhibits, nothing could be further from the truth .

Read a review of this DVD

1 disk for $37.50 PLUM price $32.00
Order any three sets from the "virtual studio" series for an additional 10% discount (discount shown in shopping cart)

Quantity    Virtual Studio series

 

 

 

DVD 24893 Five Elements Xing Yi
Chinese language subtitled in English

With his usual brilliant combination of scholarship and martial background, Adam Hsu shows the essence of Xing Yi. With his usual thoroughness, Adam Hsu breaks down and presents XY from the first step upward. He goes into great detail on points most often skipped. His comments on the San Ti standing alone are insightful and eminently reasonable. He does not just show the elements, but he deconstructs them for proper form, benefits to the health, usage and how they fit together.

Adam speaks English as well as Chinese, but he decided to do this series with English subtitles so you get a feel of what his classroom/studio manner must be like when going at full tilt and it's a wonder. Probably the best demonstration/explanation of Xing Yi in English and this is not even his strongest system. I had a brief dicussion with Adam on the subject once. He was the only student of a fellow professor in TaiPei. He studied for a year on the Split movement alone in a big auditorium where everyone else was jumping, spinning and enjoying open-handed forms and weapons of Kung Fu. When I asked him how he felt about that much time spent in basics he said that by the end of the year, "I know what Xing Yi is." As you can see, he does. THREE DVDs.

Read a review of this series.

3 discs for $105.00 PLUM price $90.00
Order any three sets from the "virtual studio" series for an additional 10% discount (discount shown in shopping cart)

Note: some sound volume problems, mostly having to do with stereo adjustment. These don't affect the English subtitles of course, but are a little distracting if you are listening to the Chinese.

Quantity    Virtual Studio series

 

NEW! DVD 24894 Critical Debate of Traditional Kung Fu
Chinese language subtitled in English, 3 discs

From a lifetime of teaching and writing about Martial arts, internationally known Adam Hsu has compiled many of his thoughts in this three+ hour discussion. Billed as a “debate” it would be more fitting to call this “debate points” like what you might rehearse with your own hometown debate team.

In his years of popular writing on the subject, he has introduced many of his concerns. Hsu has seen, within his time, the bountiful and the lean years of Kung Fu. He knows, as does any Chinese martial arts practitioner, the cultural war playing out in martial arts. His insights into its cause and cure are a succinct and focused game plan for mastering CMA.

His approach deconstructs many of the principles and mechanics of Kung Fu. Hsu doesn't care if you like or dislike CMA (or Latino culture, or Darwinism, or whatever) but he insists that you understand it before you condemn it. This can be tough for those martial artists who are conditioned to think of their interpretation—whether it’s all kick-ass, health gymnastics, or any example you might choose—as being universal.

“Chinese martial arts is broad and deep. It consists of so many styles and masters and a lot of forms, plenty of training methods. Truly it is a remarkable achievement. But several times I was told: we all like Kung Fu but there are so many masters and methods; how do we choose and start? Yes, there are many styles, but they are all Chinese Kung Fu. All of them come from the same origins … When we are choosing a style we are aware of our own figure, capability, interest and personality. Choose the one you prefer the most. You must work hard after choosing the style. As you do, keep in mind that there is no better STYLE in Kung Fu, only better practitioners. “

While Hsu discusses characteristic types of Kung Fu training, principles and pointers that could completely change the way you move, he also launches a second attack. In this, he shows that CMA is a product of a culture, a culture unknown to many people. There is treasure buried there but, rather than unearthing it, this highly refined body of human-centered information is being squeezed into twin boxes of competition and entertainment.

He honestly admits that real Kung Fu training is difficult. This is a Kung Fu personifying the long history and accumulated military genius of China. It has its portion of hard work, as all across the world people sweat through their “borrowed” martial workouts. But it also has its mental challenges.

Even above this, Hsu emphasizes that Kung Fu training is difficult because it brings so much of the human being together. It poses problems of thought and investigation that are exactly opposite the consciousness-denying frenzy of over-revved bodies and unoccupied minds.

Adam Hsu’s analysis of correct training makes me think of what Yang Chen Fu used to tell his class; “If I don’t explain these things, you would need three lifetimes to re-discover them.” This is not about secrets. Rather, Hsu sees the problem as common knowledge being just plain wrong; a much more difficult thing to correct. Secrets? No. Shortcuts and re-assessments that can literally take years off your practice? Yes.

Knowing, reading and talking to Adam Hsu is always an ear-opening experience, if you actually consider his words. His goal is to take the “heartbreak” out of martial training by putting the individual in contact with that part of himself which feels the connection to folk culture as well as personal power.

In his words: “Martial arts is in decline today. No longer justified by fighting to be dead or alive on the battlefield. So this leaves some fellows to become superstitious and mystical, such as believing the style, master and forms are all so superhuman that they can no longer share research and study to make progress with one another. This means we can no longer be friends. The superstitious mind replaces science. This will be part of the collapse of Kung Fu.”

Below is a partial list of the subjects Adam Hsu discusses. His style is witty and friendly, but also the voice of scholar pointing out misunderstandings and simple clusters of misinformation.

I have one single arm but with two fists.
For usage and training together.
Combine internal and external as one.
Yin is body, like the posture. Yang is soul, like the movement.
Sword practicing or sword dancing?
Multi and single focus.
Practicing is like reincarnation.
Learn to be a new human being.
Body and mind together.

 

Note: There are frequent instances of misspellings and botched grammar in these tapes. We wish we had seen the English script before they were released. But everything still makes sense, even the nuances of Adam Hsu’s wit and intelligence show through. The only instance I can think of where the meaning was actually bent, is in the health section where Adam Hsu talks about "Eternity" training which Daoists generally referring to as "Immortality."

3 discs for $60.00 PLUM price $50.00
Order any three sets from the "virtual studio" series for an additional 10% discount (discount shown in shopping cart)

Quantity    Virtual Studio series

 

DVD 24891 San Cai Sword
Chinese language subtitled in English
Without question, one of the best straight sword sets in a whole group of centuries. Said to have originated in the Xing Yi style (no one knows for sure), San Cai offers the almost impossible to find correlation between a beautiful individual set and a partner form that actually uses the sword as it should be used. Four DVDs completely instruct you on each side of the form which is melded in individual performance, the two-person duet version of the form, and the most valuable and rarest part of all, the basics of sword technique, including the execution of the Ten Sword Strokes which make up the core of all sword forms and techniques. Much thoughtful information as well as a great form that doubles for single or duet practice. Four DVDs.

4 discs for $140.00 PLUM price $120.00
Order any three sets from the "virtual studio" series for an additional 10% discount (discount shown in shopping cart)

Note: some sound volume problems, mostly having to do with stereo adjustment. These don't affect the English subtitles of course, but are a little distracting if you are listening to the Chinese.

 

Quantity    Virtual Studio series

 

DVD 24892 Tan Tui
Chinese language subtitled in English

Here is one of the best versions of Tan Tui we have seen. With his typical thought-provoking and creative approach, Sifu Hsu teaches the Ten Roads, not in their numeric order, but in their order of difficulty, simultaneously giving you a great way to practice along with an immediate understanding of one of Tan Tui’s strongest attributes: its modular approach to practice. Hsu shows variations of the set for higher training and makes a convincing argument along with some excellent chalk talks about the form and why it is so esteemed in the martial world. Four DVDs.

4 discs for $140.00 PLUM price $120.00 
Order any three sets from the "virtual studio" series for an additional 10% discount (discount shown in shopping cart)

Note: some sound volume problems, mostly having to do with stereo adjustment. These don't affect the English subtitles of course, but are a little distracting if you are listening to the Chinese.

Quantity  Virtual Studio series

Pi Gua, though not well known outside China, is a wonderful, expressive and beautiful style of Kung Fu. Based on the actions of the Snake and the Eagle, it is famous for its "empty sleeve" looseness where stirring, flapping, and whirling movements combine in a flurry of powerful but soft actions. At one point in history it was realized to be the perfect compliment to another great style: Ba Ji and the two are often taught together. Tell me more about PiGua.
#21007 Pigua #1 Pigua Jia Pi Gua's essential structure is demonstrated in these tapes by Master Adam Hsu, a world-renown practitioner.       Basic Training-Stationary, Moving & Turning Form PiGua Jia (Structure Form) Internal Training - (Stimulating Ch'i) Bag Training-Different distances on Hanging Bag Strike Conditioning-Whole arm Pai DaAuthentic PiGua Usage   Quantity  $35.00	#21008 Pigua #2 Pigua Boxing Pi Gua's essential structure is demonstrated in these tapes by Master Adam Hsu, a world-renown practitioner. Pi Gua, though not well known outside China, is a wonderful, expressive and beautiful style of Kung Fu. Based on the actions of the Snake and the Eagle, it is famous for its "empty sleeve" looseness where stirring, flapping, and whirling movements combine in a flurry of powerful but soft actions. At one point in history it was realized to be the perfect complement to another great style: Ba Ji and the two are often taught together. Basic Training - Grand 8 Palms and Advanced Stationary, Moving and Turning Form - PiGua Palms (representative form) Internal Training - 8 Posture Method Bag Training - Whole Arm, Torso & Foot Motivation on Horizontal Bag Strike Conditioning - Body Pai Da Authentic PiGua Palm Usage Quantity  $35.00
$35.00 each DVD or 10 % off for ordering the set of two

 

KL018 Life is too Short for Bad Kung Fu
by Adam Hsu
332 Pages, softbound, English language
Illustrated with photographs, including Sifu Hsu demonstrating Goose Feather Saber
Regular price: $38.95, Plum Price $34.95

Over its 5000 year history, Kung Fu as an art has met adversity.

For instance, 250 years ago it exited the battlefield due to the introduction of “hot” weapons, and in doing so, it retreated from its core purpose. Its shift into civilian life meant that historically brilliant strategies scaled for war morphed into self-defense techniques for individuals; the renowned stamina of soldiers, which required daily regimens for strength training, transformed into individual concerns of health and longevity. Its examination became the work of scholars instead of generals.

Even so, Kung Fu thrived, experiencing intermittent periods of sophisticated growth and attention. Teachers taught—great, and otherwise; students trained—both frivolously and seriously; styles developed; Kung Fu’s myths and legends expanded. Expertise travelled outside of China—mostly through the hands of laborers and cooks who scattered to every country—but also to those foreigners who visited and took up with teachers practicing in their own dusty courtyards. People without previous experience picked up weapons—once battlefield tested, now used for training and entertainment—to carry Kung Fu forward. Information was both shared and withheld. Knowledge was gained, and also lost.

Today, Kung Fu suffers another existential challenge—this one potentially fatal. The combination of new wealth and advanced technology threatens to supplant the traditional power that comes from touching hands. Simply said, as daily existence grows easier, the ability to focus and sustain authentic practice becomes harder. 

In this book, world-renowned martial arts teacher and writer Adam Hsu, proclaims his expert reckonings on the state of Kung Fu. For over six decades, he has acted as one of Kung Fu’s greatest proponents and contributors, as well as one of its greatest critics. In “Life Is Too Short For Bad Kung Fu”—his first English text in more than 10 years—Hsu Sifu employs aphorisms, boldly and honestly evaluating Wushu's perilous path toward its questionable future. He focuses on current-day training, teaching and practice, offering harsh criticism as well as genuine solutions. He never swerves from the foundational, millennial idea of basics as Kung Fu’s true power. He is not shy about reiterating their importance, nor about the ways they are disappearing from the traditional curriculum. Like a doctor watching a patient slip away, he is neither calm nor sentimental in his many attempts to keep Kung Fu alive.

There are those whose excitement will lead them to sit down and read this book cover to cover. To our mind, it is better appreciated in small and measured draughts—there is so much to consider—both inspirations and warnings—and the aphorism format is perfect for separating each idea into thoughtful portions.

 

Stars Reflecting from My Sword: A133
My Private Notes on Kung Fu
by Adam Hsu 徐纪

The observations of a master commentator and Kung Fu teacher. Adam Hsu's world wide reputation is well deserved not only for the highly sophisticated approach he takes to martial training but also for his honesty and insightful prose style. Many of his articles are classics in the field. In this case he opens sections of his "private notebook" and shows you his hopes and heartbreaks—and particularly his concern— about the future of Chinese martial arts.

See the Table of Contents...

Our blog review plus excerpts in English...

 

Essays by one of the most educated and clearest thinking commentators on the Chinese martial arts scene. These cover a variety of subjects but always spiced with Adam Hsu's humor, intelligence and humanity. Agree with some of the ideas or not, it is nice to listen to a thoughtful voice voicing its thoughts.

Some articles: Six Harmony Mantis • Ba Ji Style • The Art of Partner Practice • Forms in General

Quantity  
Essays on Chinese Martial Arts Vol. #1 -TC 104
by Adam Hsu (Hsu Ji)
$18.50 Traditional Chinese Characters;
319 pages, softbound.

Essays by one of the most educated and clearest thinking commentators on the Chinese martial arts scene. These cover a variety of subjects but always spiced with Adam Hsu's humor, intelligence and humanity. Agree with some of the ideas or not, it is nice to listen to a thoughtful voice voicing its thoughts.

Some pieces: Again Speaking of Tan Tui •The Miao Dao
• The Art of BaGua • Seven Star Mantis' Beng Bu form • Tai Chi's origins

Quantity  

1000 Miles without Rest -TC 103
Chien Li Bu Liu Xing
by Adam Hsu (Hsu Ji)
$18.95 Traditional Chinese Characters;
224 pages, Softbound.

This is the book that made Adam Hsu famous throughout the WuShu world and particularly on the mainland. We will never forget being confronted in Wen County by one of the Chen family. "You're a student of Adam Hsu," she stated. "Uh, yes." "I've read everything he's written," she paused, "And it's all true." This book pops balloons that should be popped and shows the heartbreaking difficulty and preciousness of finding real WuShu.

Quantity  

TC931-TC933 Modern Forms from a Long Tradition

Adam Hsu Sifu has been attempting to simplify Wushu practice for many years. At one point, he developed what is one of the most logical approaches to beginner’s foundational forms. He has taught this at his schools for years, but he's also produced a series of children's texts on these elementary forms.

These charming and beautiful Chinese-produced books are now available. The three-set series covers the first two of these forms, Hand Linked Boxing and Leg Linked Boxing.

THE LINKING FIST (Volume 1):
These books are fun, well-illustrated with many drawings and—a big help to people trying to learn the form—the entire 16 movement form repeated over and over again to review as you go. A wonderful feature of the series is the ongoing dialog between bossy sister and rambunctious brother as they try to fathom Kung Fu principles. This not only gives a wonderful innocence to the book but unravels key points as each book progresses.

LINKING FIST STORYBOOK (Volume 2):
The second book in the series is more of a child’s graphic novel showing the trouble it takes at first for the kids to explain to other kids just what Kung Fu really is. Comic book style with big dialog balloons, this is meant to be read and understood by the children themselves. It has no instruction and is not necessary to learning the forms.

Special! Buy Volume 2 with any other from the series and get it for half price (discount shown in shopping cart)

LINKING LEGS (Volume 3):
The third book in the series is the Leg Linking Form, also a 16 move form. This one concentrates not only on kicking but on strong stance and running footwork. This set is definitely more challegning and deals with at least eight classic kicks.

The key features of these forms echoes what martial teachers have been saying for years, that many older forms repeat the same information too many times—perfect for performance, not that helpful as a teaching aid. Some don't always concentrate on key basics. Some are just too complicated. These new "traditional" forms address all these criticisms. Each of the specially designed forms is only 16 moves, no more. The requirements of the forms progressively challenge the student while concentrating on graduated sets of skills. Once any version has been memorized it should be repeated on the opposite side. Then the two sides can be welded together.

What makes this such an important contribution is that every single action in each form is what might be called a "kernel." Each one of them is a member of a set for powerful and significant movements. For instance, the Big Chop (PiDa) in the middle of the first road introduces a movement that contains key principles of Long Fist and can be practiced in a multitude of methods. Every movement in every form is like this.