This page contains information pertaining to how to use the online libraries of forms and techniques and also offers up some sample content for the impatient. More full forms are visible on the Curriculum page, and logged in users will be able to access instructional (not just performance) videos for each form at their level and below.
While at OpenSource Wushu (OSW) we have always been active in recording our activities for archival purposes (and for students families), the COVID pandemic brought this to a whole new level. As classes went online, it became important to provide students with resources they could use on their own. And so here they are. Our online library now has instructional videos for more than 95% of pre-black-sash forms, and also includes a number of forms which we typically teach at a post-black-sash level.
How to Use
At each level there are a series of videos on a playlist which can be accessed by logged in members for the purpose of review or to preview technique before being formally taught it in class. This is what is typically done in most college level classes, and we see it as being appropriate here to aid in the learning process.
When logged in, the “Library” menu gives you a number of options as shown here:
Once you have selected the level you wish to review, you will notice one or more embedded videos in the page. Due to WordPress theme limitations, these may appear to be a bit smaller than optimal for viewing, and you can always pop these out and view on YouTube. Alternatively, you can view videos embedded as shown below and scroll through the playlist.
At earlier levels, each movement gets its own instructional video, and within the video the power dynamics and mechanics of each movement is demonstrated several times. As you increase in level, each video will contain a larger number of movements since it is assumed that your proficiency has increased. Even so, for certain movements, you will find additional instruction available since they are either completely new, or arranged in a new way.
Our experience has shown that more motivated and experienced individuals CAN learn via video, but that this takes active practice to get good at. It is, in fact, common for many coaches to have students study a form via video to pick up the essentials prior to working in person. This is important in the case that you are hiring the coach by the hour and want to make most effective use of your time. That said, most students have communicated to us that the videos are helpful in remembering details from class and in helping them to assimilate the material.
Sample Content
It’s generally good to know what you’re getting into when you sign up for a martial arts class. Here are some samples of some materials we provide to our members. In addition, there are instructional videos which walk students through forms, techniques, and applications. Videos are presented one level at a time, and students must show competence at each level before progressing to more advanced levels. While it may be possible to progress by working online only, and our experience with COVID has shown that some students are able to do so, the majority of students are not able to advance without in person instruction.
Performance of Xiao Hong Quan from our advanced Longfist curriculum:
Short Staff Sparring – medium intensity – we use both short staffs and western sabers to practice with short weapons.
Shaolin Dui Gunshu (2 person staff) – although this routine is choreographed, we also train in longstaff sparring.
Tan Tui 1 Instructional (basic form) – this is a sample of the detailed instruction that is available online to our members.
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