Right moves in fast motion

"It is all about being quick without losing balance. You also need the power while striking the target. Relentless hard work and dedication is needed to learn the art."

HARD WORK: Fleet footed. Photo: M. Moorthy

A visit to my friend’s place turned fruitful; I got to know about Gunshu, a Chinese martial art, through a book.

At the very outset, I was drawn to Gunshu since it very much resembled Silambam what with the practitioner using a staff in this martial art form.

Attempt

After assimilating the basics in the book, I decided to give it a try. Fortunately, better sense prevailed over me and I decided to learn more about the art form from a professional first.

I fixed up an appointment with trainer, Vasudevan who has a good number of learners. The six-feet staff, with which the youngsters were practicing, was flexible and did not break even when smashed forcefully against the ground.

Mr. Vasudevan gave me the staff and I quickly tried out a few steps that I got to see in MGR movies. “Right from the make of the staff, movements and application, there is a lot of difference between silambam and Gunshu,” he clarified.

As I watched the youngsters whirl during the training session in amazement, Mr. Vasudevan explained to me the extent of practice they had put in to reach that level.

Balance

“It is all about being quick without losing balance. You also need the power while striking the target. Relentless hard work and dedication is needed to learn the art.”

Explaining the health benefits accruing from Gunshu, Mr. Vasudevan termed it as a complete exercise. “It improves flexibility, builds reflexes and helps to stay ultra-fit. While in action, almost all parts of the body are at work,” he said.

His words were pretty inspiring that I practiced with the staff for a while and signed off determined to return again.