An Introduction to 'Tiger-Crane' combination
All the different groups of martial art have some objective. Each of
these groups have their own specialities and their own usefulness. A lot
will depend on the individuals' intelligence, diligence and concentration
in pursuing with the training. There is no limit in the training of the
Chinese Martial Art. There is no such thing as a person who is a fully
qualified practitioner.
Under the Shaolin Monastery there are five different types of pugilistic
art. It started in the beginning with the 'Tat Chuen', which was used as
an exercise for the monks of the Monastery. This art is made useful for
self defence by the introduction of the 'Lo Han' (Buddha). The 'Lo
Han'
art has more concentration on the fighting and defence techniques. The
art was further improved by the introduction of the 'Tai Chao' (Tiger)
whereby the training power is added. Later there was the introduction of
the 'Monkey' art. Its defence and attacking methods are combined with speed
and the use of the fingers. The final introduction to the 'Shao Lin' art
is the 'Crane' art. The concentration is on flexibility, defends and attacks
are based on the 'sticky hand' or touch system.
Under the distinguished guidance of our Master Mr. Ang Lian Huat we are
taught the 'Tiger Crane Combined Art' (Hoo Her Suan Sin). This
art is the combination created by Master Hung Ee Kan and wife Tee Eng
Choon, the man
specializing in the 'Tiger' art and his wife in the 'Crane' art.
The basis of this art is the training of eleven graded sets of exercises,
whereby the aim is to achieve stability, flexibility, power and strength
through these exercises. The sets of exercises are designed for step by
step improvements toward the objective. For a pugilist to learn all eleven
sets of fundamental exercises, it would take a minimum of five to six years.
After that more advanced exercises would follow.
The beginning stage of the training programme is very important to a martial
artist, for if he starts wrongly if would be difficult to adjust him at
a later stage. Training usually starts with the leg movements so as to
be
able
to stand at a stable position. After mastering the leg movements, the hand
movements would be taught. It is advisable to start the first lesson in
a relaxed manner rather than over exerting oneself.
Still, the most important aim in the training of the martial art is
to build a physically healthy strong person.
Master Tan Soh Tin
Further
Information on Shaolin Tiger-Crane Kung Fu
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