Hatha Yoga
Hatha Yoga is a style involving a series of postures, or asanas, coupled with the in-and-out flow of breath. The goal is to achieve a balance in both the pattern of breathing and the asanas, which are done in a certain order, each successive pose counter-balancing the one before. Its pace is well-suited to beginners and experienced practitioners alike, allowing students to fully experience and learn each asana. The benefits range from increased flexibility and stress relief to the loosening of the muscles and help with physical conditions, such as asthma or back problems. Yoga practice also emphasizes personal self-awareness and strives for harmony in mind, body, and spirit.
Balintawak
Overview:
Balintawak is one of the specialized systems of FMA. This art focuses on impact weapons training and uses the single stick (rattan stick 28"-30") as the main training tool for skills development. Through use of the single stick, the practitioner learns to understand various weapons and empty hands., and distancing. Balintawak is based on the concepts of leverage, proper body mechanics, and defense. It also places great importance on proper timing and whole body sensitivity. Balintawak stylists are known for their close quarter fighting methods, lightning speed, and pin-point accuracy.
Training Method:
1. Grouping Method:
Students begin with the 12 basic angles of attack and defense. After the basic angles, he/she is introduced to basic grouping methods. These methods give the student an intro to possible attacks and openings. The 5 grouping methods introduce concepts of the live hand, thrusting, utilizing the butt of the stick, grabbing, etc. This is the foundation for which all advanced training is to be based on.
Once the student has achieved proficiency in these methods, the real training begins. Random feeding or Palakaw is trained and continuously refined until "correct" responses are programmed into the practitioner.
2. Random Method:
The random method does not use groups. In this method the instructor right away delivers random attacks to the student.
At Apex both methods of instruction are being used.
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