The main martial arts system that we teach is Wu Dao Gong which is a synthesis of the great martial art styles of China. This art is an integration of philosophy, meditation, martial arts and traditional Chinese medicine. It embodies qualities of well being, power, transcendence, beauty, inspiration and wisdom. Chief Instructor Brett Wagland has dedicated 40 years to the practice and research of t
he best methods available. Brett remarked, "I have been fortunate enough to have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn these practices from a traditional teacher of these arts. Since meeting Fei Wang 30 years ago, I have only missed a few days of training. It has been and still is an amazing journey into the depths of my being – my body, mind and spirit. I still see my teacher twice a week with a group of a dozen or so dedicated students. Training is hard and challenging on many levels but it is also immensely rewarding. This ancient knowledge transforms those who pursue it. It is deeply steeped in Taoist and Buddhist traditions of knowledge and wisdom in self development. Truly, in the training methods and wisdom can be found a treasure that can elevate the consciousness and well being of humankind." Fei Wang is a traditional Chinese medical practitioner and is an heir to this highly developed system. He was taught in a traditional way by his teacher who himself was a scholar, a traditional Chinese medical practitioner and a very accomplished kung fu master. At first, Fei Wang studied medicine for two years with his teacher. He was twelve years old at the time. One day, his teacher asked if he would like to learn kung fu. Fei was surprised at first because his bespectacled teacher was a slightly built learned gentleman. To Fei`s surprise, he performed a one handed stand on a rope fence. Amazing for a seventy-two year old! The word Wu refers to the inspiration we need to find in order to do well at any task in life. Dao means the way. In the context of the training, it means the methods and procedures we follow to change and develop the mind and body. Gong is the result of consistent quality effort over a period of time. What do we train? The Wu Dao Gong system is based on the principle that stability and growth need to be supported by a deep, strong foundation. As an old Chinese adage states, “The top is the basics and the basics are the top.’’ Training starts with loosening tension from muscles, joints and sinews. Various practices are taught to calm the mind and improve concentration and relaxation. Methods using punching and kicking develop balance, coordination, concentration and power. The legs form the physical roots of the body. According to Chinese medicine, the legs also influence the energetic roots of the body’s health and vitality. This stage of the training process teaches and develops an integrative strength, that is, we are taught to use the whole body – tendons, joints, muscles and mind – in a synergistic way.
