BianGun Beachmere

04/04/2022

I adapted this routine from a couple of sources -- both Chinese and from classical physical culture that was the norm up to WW2.
Since I've doing it for some time, I am registering the changes on my biomechanics.
Less than 5 minutes and all you need is a stick as tall as your armpit. Maybe rest the stick against your computer table or work station?
It isn't so much as a stretch -- it is more movement awareness and body alignment.
While I also do other physical stuff on a day-to-day basis, I can get down and get up from the floor without putting my arms down to support me. As you age -- as we all tend to do! -- those are the moves that fail you first -- especially if there is arthritis in the mix.
[My hand goes up.]
I'm not saying that this is a perfect routine...but for the effort invested, it gives you great bang for your buck outlay.

01/04/2022

For beginners, I usually cut and 2 supply bamboo sticks.But if you want to develop your stick skills, you need to obtain a much smoother stick for advanced work.
A broom or mop stick is fine. Just make sure to sand it back and oil its length to protect your hands and the stick from wear.
Even a stick cut from a branch or sapling is fine, so long as it presents a smooth surface after sanding. You can use it for hiking and walking about.
Otherwise, you can buy dowell or -- as I prefer -- laminated bamboo, which may be cheaper. (See link below).
Another material -- on offer from sports stores is rattan -- which it light, strong and has some flex.
Online the sizes you want from martial arts suppliers are usually sold as a 'Jo staff ' (armpit height) or kali sticks (arm length). You can also buy a 'bo staff' -- which is head height -- and cut that back. These are more expensive than BianGun sticks you can create yourself.
A BianGun staff (or stick) is the same height and gauge as a Jo staff.
Although a kali stick will do for practising -- the length you really want is 'hip high' -- in line with what's known as a 'Hanbo' -- half Bo ( in Japanese).
When we say armpit height or hip height, we mean YOUR armpit and YOUR hip. So cut it accordingly or bring it along for a session and we'll fit it to your body mechanics together.

Find Oates 1.5m x 25mm Duratuff Bamboo Broom Handle at Bunnings. Visit your local store for the widest range of products.

28/03/2022

BIANGUN BEACHMERE NOTICE :

*The last session of the U3A course is this Thursday, March 31st. It will be returning in May for Term #2. https://www.u3abeachmere.org.au/courses/
*Saturday 9am open sessions are no longer being offered.
*However, the Wednesday open session will continue -- 9am, each Wednesday Clayton Park. Just drop by.
*But there will be NO SESSION on Wednesday April 6th as I will be out west.
That is all. Message ends.

The website of University of the Third Age Beachmere, Qld, Australia. U3A Beachemere Inc provides courses and activities for members of the community aged over 50 who are reitred or semi retired.

12/03/2022

Biangun: Taichi on a stick

11/03/2022

04/03/2022

Open to all. Free. Sticks provided.

CURRENTLY TEACHING:
*Health wand : using a biangun stick to improve posture, mobility, strength, breath, foster balance and movement awareness.
*TaiChi on a Stick: using a short biangun stick to improve mobility, concentration, movement awareness, encourage relaxation, and learn a martial art.

SESSIONS:
*Every Wednesday, 9-10am Clayton Park near Moreton Terrace
*Starting Saturdays, 9-10am Clayton Park near Moreton Terrace.

Current U3A term : Thursdays 9am
Next U3A term: Thursdays 9am