Weapons…

It’s important to understand the difference between functional and theatrical. Using a bladed weapon, one centimetre can mean the difference between life and death.

Functional is small movements, usually involving angles, footwork, sticking, slipping, curved movement and cutting, slashing, striking and stabbing to vital points often using different parts of the weapon.

Theatrical comes from theatre, street performers, movies and competition and utilises the bigger more dramatic movements that look good to the audience.

I like both but only practice the functional. It’s important that you know the difference between the two and understand which one you’re practicing, just in case you mix them up.

Weapons are often a part of a complete training system. In Tai Chi you have the practice the neigong, qigong, hand forms and push hands as they form the mindset, body structure, techniques and contact skills necessary to use the weapons.