The Value of Practicing Sequences in Qigong

As a martial artist goes through training, they will encounter many years of practicing sequences. A sequence, (Quan Tao), is a continuous flowing routine made up of a number of defensive and offensive techniques. Japanese systems often call this a Kata literally: "form"). The techniques are either a single form such as a block, punch, or kick, or they can consist of a combination of forms used for specific situations when defending or attacking an opponent. It is expected that the student will train a sequence for a period of time before being tested and advancing on to the next sequence. Usually the recommended number of times they are required to practice the sequence is 1000 times before advancing. This allows them to be able to remember it and perform it with speed and power. It is also a way for the student to preserve the history of their style and be able to pass on to future generations the knowledge of past research and investigation. Click to learn how Chinese medicine treats Erosive Gastritis.

"Flower Fists, Brocade Legs" (Hua Quan, Xiu Tui)
In our modern society, however, students are often in a hurry to learn their sequence then rush off to learn the next one without attaining deeper knowledge of the material they have learned. This becomes obvious when attending competitions, or demonstrations where a student may demonstrate some speed and/or power in the sequence but does not show any sense of enemy. A martial artist who cannot effectively demonstrate this knowledge of martial power produces a condition known to Chinese martial artists as, "Flower fists, Brocade legs" (Hua Quan, Xiu Tui). It means they have emphasized only the beauty of the art and not true Gong (功), or cultivation of Qi and its coordination with martial power to make the sequence alive. Additionally, some schools will train the sequences then have students spar with no regard to what they have just practiced. They have truly disregarded one of the main purposes of training sequences and in doing so; many students question the validity of practicing the sequences.