by theyichuanmethod on Thu Mar 03, 2016 3:31 am
Hi Nick!
In a nutshell I moved to San Francisco for work years ago. I had been practicing martial arts for years and was looking for something internal. I shopped around a bit and was lucky enough to be invited to observe one of Master Fung's classes. I could see there was something very different about how he moved, even though i could not tell what it was at the time. His expression of strength when demonstrating on his students were quite remarkable. Fortunately he allowed me to join his class and I eventually became a close student.
I don't have any first hand experience with the Yao lineage so it is difficult for me to contrast. Master Fung emphasizes developing internal storage of strength. Technique or expression of strength is based on the unity of the frame and torque manifested within. Push hands and testing strength exercises like bouncing are not even addressed until the foundation is in place because its counter productive. You just end up using regular strength, reinforcing old habits. Heck, even when I had developed the frame I could barely keep myself from ramming people with it until the light bulb went off. Additionally, Master Fung draws from deep experience in other arts. While we always stayed true to the Yi Chuan methodology we often explored shapes and ideas from Hop Gar, Mok Gar, Tai Chi and Tong Bei. Growing up in Hong Kong exposed him to many methodologies.
I'm not sure how that compares to Yao lineage teachers. FYI there is a good interview with Master Fung on his web site that outlines his philosophy and approach.
Steve