Level 2 – GKB

Triangulation

When students (Approx. L2) say to the instructor that they're finding their reflexes have and are improving by considerable amounts and certain actions separate or outside to the art surprise them, they are told of a triangulation analogy/theory which is premised on straight–lining to the target and is too detailed to document in full detail here, but rather, a connection–analogy between student and instructor is formed to validate and demystify these occurrences and let the student know that they are on common ground. Though significant achievements occur regarding physical and mental capabilities, realistically, most achievements are realised through hard work, discipline and consistency as well as, logical, effective and efficient movement and training.

Perimeter Awareness

The second point that L2 students become aware of is general balance and our natural perimeters. At its most basic, a person that utilises the disciplines of Kung Fu prevents inefficiency and reduces redundant actions/moves in a continuous cycle. A most basic example would be people slipping whilst walking. Whilst a well balanced person instead of sliding with flaying arms et cetera, the foot just goes for a little 100mm slip with the heel (operative word) still stuck to the ground, does a basic on the fly adjustment, recovers and continues. This analogy at its most basic is the Kung Fu working, and more importantly, L2 prevents one from getting into these compromised situations in the first place, however, mistakes do occur through pressure or other variables (slippery ground etc) and through discipline, the errors should be greatly reduced through improved controlled techniques/footwork and bought back into line if one goes out and, having an assurance to moves in all directions at any given time. Kung Fu footwork in any direction should be like walking, one foot down, and one foot moves.

When more advanced students look at beginners, several issues are noted. One is that for every move, huge inefficient structural, superfluous adjustments are made to each move and slipping can as a rule, be put down to a foot not hitting the ground straight and square. The more experienced students when training even on slippery surfaces have limited change to their power and stepping. This is not some form of magic, it is simply due to every step being considered, measured and accounted for and with ones perimeters improved, there is not much chance of compromising oneself to dangerous situations. It should be noted particularly with training footwork that each mistake a student makes compounds into the next move, if one does not twist enough on the move, then that has to be compensated and made up on the next move, or, loss of power through the lack of making up the mistaken technique that is covered in L1 section of this site (Keelan P, 2004). Tai Chi is one of the best arts to expose this theory and is thoroughly recommended to practice if given the opportunity to train with a good Instructor.

Sifu would say that a student will never forget this style and these theories are what this is in regard to, not some physical aspect that diminishes within 6 months of non–training, but actual awareness that like scratching oneself, once realised, they'll never be forgotten. One does not forget how to move efficiently and this is what L2 begins to offer the student.