Sword Master Class- An Article by Shafagh Amiraftabi Instructor WCMA

The first Master Class of the Year was the Staff, which proved to be both challenging and extremely enjoyable. The Staff forms part of the White Crane Syllabus. This weapon opens the door to other long weapons such as the Kwan Do, Spear, Trident, Monk Spade, Horse Cutting Knife, Halberd and of course the Metal Staff. Without the Staff and Metal Staff the White Crane system would not be complete.

The second Master Class was the Sword Master Class. The first bladed weapon of the White Crane system is the Broad Sword and together with the Butterfly Knives these two weapons form part of the White Crane syllabus.

After four hours training on Saturday morning and an excellent Chinese meal we made our way to the White Crane Studio for some sword delights and there were plenty to be had.

The first half of the Master Class was spent on the Straight Sword and the second half on the Curved Sword. The Chief Instructor began by naming the different parts of the Sword and described with the aid of his extensive collection the differences between Straight and Curved Swords and the differences between Eastern and Western swords.

We then continued with basic exercises, highlighting the different principles. Each section was completed with two man set exercises and free style sparring with the use of rubber swords.

It was great to see some new faces as well as “old ones” at the Master Class and the time flew past. The Weapons Camp is at the end of March and for all of us at the Master Class it was a glimpse of all the fun to be had in a month’s time. I am particularly looking forward to the Weapons Camp as there will be students attending who have not been to the Weapons Camp in the past and of course training with the veterans.

Two hours Sword training was invaluable time spent on this incredibly beautiful weapon, but it did highlight the importance of training with an Instructor who has both knowledge and experience as it is very easy to get into bad habits. It takes an experienced eye to develop students in this sophisticated field.

Thank you once again to Mr Russell Suthern our Chief Instructor for his extensive knowledge and for sharing his passion with us. Roll on the Weapons Camp.