Shaolin forms and what they teach me

I have always loved forms. I never really realized the importance of them until recently. Master Meng has been teaching us lately the difference between forms and why they are used. They can teach you basic movements, or be more practical and actually teach you how to use the movements in the form for actual combat or self defense. This was very enlightening but i have had my own ah ha moments lately from learning a few new forms.

The first thing i learned is that you really need to work hard on your first two halls to get properly prepared for doing intermediate to advanced forms. If you have any flaws in your basic movements they will be very evident. I have personally realized how much i need to work on my flexibility and my slide stance to be able to give the form the proper respect it deserves. I am just starting to get to the advanced level in my training towards my black sash and the Long Fist form is helping me with some advanced kicks and sweeps we dont get to practice everyday.

Last but not least I think doing forms with passion and trying to do them the best of your ability is a great workout. You get the whole body involved with out even realizing it. After just one pass of Long Fist I am out of breath and sweating perfusly. This also tells me to work on my cardio.

I have seen several students lately getting into forms and this makes me so happy. We work after class to help each other improve our kung fu skills and become the best martial artist we can be. I hope some of the newer students will discover the importance of forms as I have.

So, what have forms taught you?