Northern Sabre

We study weapons forms to further develop our sensitivity, always seeking to express the T'ai Chi principles we value in our empty hand practice. Northern Sabre is suitable for T'ai Chi players with at least 6 months' experience and of all ages, both men and women. This form encourages us to extend our awareness into an inanimate object, much as a master craftsman feels through the lathe into the wood, or a skilled musician feels at one with her instrument.

The Yang Style Northern Sabre Form is flowing and dynamic with strong silk-reeling movements. It is practised with a single edged slightly curved blade which is longer and narrower than other T'ai Chi sabres. It is distinct from other Yang Style Broadsword forms, sometimes referred to as Sabre Forms, which use a blade which flares wider towards the tip.

At the beginning we practice with wooden bokkens, which have a similar shape and length, but later we may choose to use metal sabres. Sabre warm ups, sticking and preliminary exercises are taught as well as safe handling of the sabre and correct weapons etiquette.