Information for prospective students

Beginners

If you are interested in training with the club, feel free to come and watch one of our classes. However, do not rely solely on what you observe to make a decision. It is often best to try it out and see if it suits you.

It is not necessary to be an athlete, super fit or even to have done any exercise recently to start practicing WSK. The progressive training on offer means that basic techniques are built upon over time, and so no previous experience is necessary. The training system is therefore very suitable for beginners.

Classes are structured programmes so that while everyone performs the same movements, each individual gains something different. For example beginners will improve their flexibility and co-ordination while senior students will concentrate on putting more power and speed into their combination techniques. Traditional weapons use and more advanced moves are also taught to higher grades.

Class structure
A typical class lasts for 2 hours, roughly divided into:
- Stretching and warming-up
- Basic movements – blocks, kick, punches etc.
- Forms fixed
- Free sparring/self-defence

Free sparring is integral to understanding the applications of the moves learnt during the class. There are few restrictions on sparring however we have a good record of injury-free training because of the high standard of instruction and supervision, and strict adherence to safe practice.

Try to arrive about 15 minutes before the class begins to give you enough time to change. There are no special requirements or equipment needed for your first session; just wear some loose clothing (such as jogging bottoms and a t-shirt).

Progression to Black belt
Provided you train regularly enough, it is possible to get a black belt in just over 2 years! The fact that you can get to such a high level so quickly does not mean that it is easy to get a black belt in our style, rather it reflects how the WSK training system greatly accelerates progression.

Classes
· £6 per session.

Annual memberships
· Wu Shu Kwan: £37. Membership is required to be able to grade for each belt.

Uniform and equipment
· Clothing: from £49.90 (jacket, trousers and white belt). The uniform should last for several years.
· Protection: Recommended for free-sparring at gradings for coloured belt holders and can be obtained via your instructor include:
o Shin/instep guards
o Gum shield
o Groin guard
o High-quality boxing gloves (16oz)
Head guards are compulsory for higher gradings only (upper brown and black belt gradings).

Gradings
· Grading fee: £14

Grading fees are higher from upper brown belt upwards, due to the need for a centralised grading location (for higher degree examiners to attend) and the cost of breaking materials (including roofing tiles, breeze blocks, bricks and wood).

The minimum requirements are to have attended 8 classes and for at least 3 months to have passed since your last grading. To be eligible for the first grading you need to have submitted your membership application at least 2 months in advance. There are many gradings being held up and down the country at any one time.