Grandmaster Loke's Masters Workshop
23 May 2010

By Master Tina Matania (4th Duan)

Grandmaster Loke's Master's meeting was attended by 4th Duan level and above and was held at National Headquarters in Grays, Essex on Sunday 23rd May 2010.

After battling through traffic on the M25 (with long delays at the Dartford Toll Tunnel) Masters from Surrey, Sussex, Kent, Essex and Devon were pleased to commence the training session shortly after 2:30pm.

Grandmaster Loke started the workshop by refining blocking and side stepping techniques and explaining in more depth the difference between the forward stance, back stance and running / climbing mountain (pa shan) stances, encompassing side-stepping, advancing and retreating. He also drew the comparison between the basic blocks and the more advanced open handed and 'swiping/smashing' blocking techniques which could be employed by more senior grades.

After a short break and a most welcome piece of Mrs Loke's home-made and most famous banana cake, with renewed energy Masters re-entered the training hall to go through Luo Han Form Two led by Grandmaster Loke.

Grandmaster Loke made particular reference to several points within the form which required attention in order to unify the performance of the form across the United Kingdom. Particularly noteworthy is the very first movement of the form which is a direct step backwards with deployment of the mirror hand block. Another point (of many) to note was the sweeping/snapping motion of the right hand backwards with good coverage of distance prior to the back kick preceding the second wing arm block (pang sou tang) in the form.

Another ten minute break (and much needed drink of water in the hot conditions) was followed by an in-depth look at Lou Han Form Five which requires good flexibility of wrist and hand movements and flowing combinations.

The next Master's Meeting in 2010 will take place on 28th November 2010 and is open to members who are 3rd Duan black belt holders and upwards.

Tang Sou!