Kuntao Silat

We have been working on basics from Kuntao Silat. Specifically we have been focusing on stance work and the first form of the Kendang Silat, Juru Satu.

Juru Satu is known as "the form of total destruction" and builds a strong foundation in the basic movements of Kendang. In the juru are elements of Cimande, Cikalong and Serak. In parallel I have also introduced the class to the first 8 juru from the Serak system as the movements are very similar and complement Juru Satu.

The form brings out an aggressive, advancing footwork that I describe as being similar to the pressure of a straight blast from Wing Chun. It is intended to completely overwhelm your opponent.

Most of the students are enjoying the forms practice and it has opened up new lines of movement both in the footwork and upper body techniques.

Although some students are having difficulty adapting to learning the Jurus/Forms I am already seeing the benefits in the way they move. Everyone's body mechanics are improving and the flow of movement that each student displays is consistently improving.

Then next step will be for the students to begin working out their own applications for the movements in the Juru. I have shown some but in order for the art to be completely internalized everyone needs to develop their own interpretation of the movements.

I always emphasize that the Jurus are not teaching techniques, they are a study in movements that have an infinite number of applications.