| What is Wushu? Wushu can be directly translated into English as "martial art". Commonly referred to as kung-fu in America, is a popular sport with a long and diverse historical tradition in China. Over the last thirty years, wushu in Mainland China was modernized so that there could be a universal standard for training and competiing. Wushu will be an official sport in the Beijing Olympics of 2008. Zhang Lingmei's wushu classes focus on Chang Quan, literally "long fist", a dynamic art characterized by fast movements, high kick, and acrobatic jumps that has been popularized by actors such as Jet Li and by the recent Ang Lee release "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.". After mastering basic open-hand or fist forms, students learn to use weapons including straight sword, staff, spear, or broadsword. |
| What is Tai Chi Chuan? Tai Chi, Tai Chi Chuan, or Taiji Quan, can be translated as "The Ultimate Fist". It is one form of Wushu which has gained exceptional popularity around the world. Exercising, stretching, and clearing the whole body at its deepest levels, it is a combination of martial arts, artistry, preventative and therapeutic medicine, and meditation. Tai Chi is both an art and a science. It is the art of Chinese shadow-boxing, both rhythmic and fluid, conveying a sense of inner tranquility. It is a science of control of physical and mental functions that improves the health and outlook of the practitioner. People of all ages, body types, and levels of physical fitness can practice and enjoy the benefits of Tai Chi Chuan. |
| Zhang Lingmei's teaching style Zhang Lingmei has over 30 years professional martial arts coaching experience. Her teaching focuses on relaxation and correct movement, building strength, flexibility, and coordination. Classes are taught in a friendly, noncompetitive environment, emphasizing individual attention and abilities. |
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