Yang's Martial Arts Association (YMAA) School
YMAA Program
The YMAA training program can be divided into three main parts: External Styles, Internal Styles, and Qigong. All YMAA branches or provisional schools must teach material in at least one of these three categories according to the YMAA training schedule, and all students must pass the qualification tests in order to advance to the next level.
Junior Program (Ages 5 to 12)
Because it is harder for younger students to understand the deep theory of the internal styles, they are normally encouraged to join only the Shaolin junior program which was especially designed for them. This program emphasizes reaction training and flexibility, and encourages reading and the development of good learning habits through the discussion of traditional Chinese martial stories.
The first period of training is usually longer for juniors than for adults, and they must pass several different qualifications. Once a junior student has passed the first period training, he/she will be qualified to enter the adult training classes and follow the adult program. Any YMAA branch or provisional school has a right to design a Junior Gongfu program according to the needs or customs of its local area.
Adult Program Training Contents (Ages 13 and up)
External Styles (Shaolin White Crane and Long Fist)
Shaolin White Crane specializes in hand techniques and short range fighting, while Shaolin Long Fist specializes in kicking and long range fighting. Both are trained in YMAA external styles training, and the techniques of both styles are used in sparring practice.
Internal Styles-Taijiquan, Xingyiquan, Baguazhang, and Liu He Ba Fa
In internal styles, YMAA focuses mainly on traditional Yang Style Taijiquan which originated from Yang, Ban-Hou. In addition, YMAA will continue to invite well known masters to YMAA headquarters to teach Xingyiquan, Baguazhang, and Liu He Ba Fa, the other three well-known internal styles.
Qigong
Qi is defined as the energy of the universe, and Gong means hard work or study. Therefore, Qigong means "the Study of Natural Energy." Western science has identified a bioelectric potential in the body which could be one of the primary aspects of Qi energy. This "bioelectricity" is recognized by YMAA as an important area of Qigong study and research. The Qigong classes offered at YMAA study Qi in relation to health, longevity, and martial arts, and follow the methods developed by Buddhists, Daoists, and also martial artists. The YMAA Qigong program can be followed independently of other YMAA programs.
Contact us at
617-524-8892
