Overview

James Yang practicing saber in Hungary 2000

Saber Fundamentals: The foundation of all short weapons
YMAA Boston – Boston, MA – August 16th and 17th, 2008

The saber is a broadsword (typically with a blade length of 26" - 30") and is considered the root and foundation of all short weapons. About 60-70% of saber techniques are shared with any other single short weapon. This seminar will cover basic saber strategies, techniques, handling, and footwork. Saber should be one of the first weapons learned for anybody who is interested in learning a single short weapon. From the basics taught in this seminar, a practitioner will establish a proper foundation and develop a feeling for learning short weapons. Topics covered will include understanding the saber, basic techniques and skills, solo practice, 2-person practice, stances, and correct body structure. This seminar will prepare practitioners for Saber – Level 2, where the first YMAA Long Fist saber sequence, Qi Xing Dao, will be taught.

Seminar/Workshop Program

The focus of this seminar will be on fundamentals for the saber. As with any martial art, properly learning the fundamentals will determine the rest of your practice. It is important to build good habits early on in the training process instead of trying to break bad ones later on. Be sure to practice regularly. Topics reviewed will include:

1. Stances
   Building proper leg strength, form, and body structure are absolutely essential to any martial style. In order to properly and effectively use the sword, the movement of the sword must flow in conjunction with the legs and body form. Training stationary stances are important for conditioning the body and legs, as well as building correct habits.
2. Footwork
   Footwork is important for maneuvering from place to place. It is absolutely essential in any type of martial arts training, especially in maximizing the range and usage of any weapon used. Stepping, hopping, and jumping are all used to adjust the distance to and from an opponent. All of the fundamental stances should be incorporated into footwork practice, ensuring proper rooting, balance, and control of your arms, legs, and weapon at all times.
3. Solo Practice
   Most of the exercises and drills are designed to help a saber practitioner build good habits and a proper foundation. There are about 14 fundamental techniques that will be reviewed in detail. It is important to understand the saber's physical structure and how techniques for it were developed. After becoming familiar with the techniques, we will add footwork.
4. 2-Person Practice
   After getting a comfortable feel for solo practice, practicing with a partner is highly recommended. It is the only way a practitioner will be able to build a proper sense of distance, power, and body movement. As with solo practice, first stationary practice will be taught, followed by moving. There are about 9 matching drills for saber.

Throughout the seminar, saber training theory and proper ways of practice will be emphasized. There will be a brief review of the saber itself, its physical structure and makeup, and practice tips to keep in mind. It is very important to practice these fundamentals to a smooth and comfortable level before moving on to more advanced practice.

Who's Teaching?

YMAA instructors Nicholas Yang, George Dominguez, and Ben Warner have trained the Chinese saber with Dr. Yang for many years and will be leading the seminar discussion and exercises.

Who Should Attend?

Everybody is welcome to attend this saber seminar. Previous martial arts experience is a plus, but not required. Attendance is limited, so register soon. This seminar will benefit:

• Martial artists of all levels seeking a traditional and solid introduction to training saber. The saber is considered a heavy and vicious weapon.
• All who are interested in training short weapons and building a proper, traditional foundation
• Experienced martial artists who are looking to develop a deeper understanding of saber practice, both solo and with a partner

What Should I Bring?

You will be required to bring a wooden saber to this seminar. During matching sets, the sabers will wear down and sometimes break, so look into investing in a cheap but durable saber. We do not have sabers for sale at YMAA. If there is enough interest, we may order sabers for participants that contact us by June. You may bring a metal saber for solo practice, but it is not required. We recommend wearing loose practice clothing (t-shirt and pants) and a pair of indoor shoes unless you prefer training barefoot. Street shoes are not permitted on the training floor.

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