Chans Martial Arts News
CMA 26-03 14th October 2026
Sydney Seminars
We had a very informative seminar by Michael ShiYe in Sydney. He talked about the importance of good health, which is as important as martial arts skills. Some martial arts training can be detrimental to health. Therefore, we must be very careful in choosing what and how to train. We must have good nutrition, rest and exercise that is healthy for the body and the mind. The more accurate, balanced, and relaxed, the better the Qi will flow to our organs, and enhance our health. We also worked on the effectiveness of pushing hands through internal circulation, and external flow.
In Shao Chi Chuan, we focused on fundamental principles in techniques. We experimented with the effect of leverage in the sequential action. WaiHoe Chan Laoshi reinforced the Chien Na protocols, to improve the development of skills and safety.
As usual, it was wonderful to enjoy so much of Sydney’s many culinary delights with good company.
Annual Quiz at HQ
It was the biggest one on record. Everyone had a good time. Once again thanks to Mr & Mrs Logan for organising this popular event.
Annual Camp in Blenheim
We had one of the biggest camps in recent years. Local instructor and Camp Commander, Mr Alan Speck, organised everything extremely well. His team was very efficient and had everything pretty right. The camp dinner was a really classy affair at the Wither Hills vineyard. The location was beautiful with excellent food and wine. Naturally it was due to the great company who really loved to unwind after a very full day training.
The summary of the camp is that all of our training is about the continual refinement of the fundamental principles. Even the highest level skills depend on these principles. We practiced all the Forms, including the Labyrinth, Circle and Weapon Forms.
After spending a few weeks overseas after camp, I have time to reflect on what we worked on this year. I want to clarify that Training should in 3 stages:
1) Firstly, training should be started with careful, slow and soft techniques, until the basic principles are well embedded in the techniques.
2) Next, is the focus on feeling the balance, leverage, sequential build up of power & timing to peak at the target. This should be practiced at around 50% speed and power.
3) Finally, this must be eventually brought up to be tested at a functional level of 80% to 90% on occasions, even though most training should be at 50%.
We really need to see a functional level of correct technique, control, speed & power especially at gradings.
Annual Black Belt & Tai Chi Chuan Instructor Meeting
This will be on the 27th November at HQ.
Tai Chi Chuan Instructors Meeting: 6:00pm-7:00pm
Chief Instructors & Black Belts: 7:00pm-8:30pm
Black Belt Grading - 28th November
This year we have no available candidates for 1st degree Black Belt because of various reasons such as injuries and personal life events. As we have clearly defined the grading standards for Black Belts this year, potential candidates need more time to get ready for the higher levels as well.
We are happy to announce that Mr Morgan Fitzgerald (Parklands) is the sole candidate who has been invited to grade for 3rd Degree.
This Black Belt Grading will be as important as ever, as we would like to showcase the required standards, as well as observing the participation, ability and demeanour of the potential candidates for the future.
Annual Dinner & Awards
This year the dinner will be at the South Garden Restaurant at 6pm (4/6 Brake Street, Upper Riccarton). Tickets are limited as usual. Cost: Adults - $45 per head and $30 for 12 yrs and under. Please get them as soon as possible by sending us a message with a note on dietary requirements. Payments should be made to the CMA Social Club Account at the time of booking (03-0866-0296228-000). After dinner we will have the awards presentations and party at HQ from 7:30pm. This will be a happy occasion to talk about the great strides we have made this year as well as present the certificates for the successful 2025 candidates.
Please note that there is a big concert being held at the Te Kaha stadium so many roads will be closed in the city with increased congestion so please plan accordingly to avoid driving through the central city.
May Qi be with you,
Grandmaster Chan
Chans Martial Arts