A:    Literally translated, "Wushu" means "martial arts".  Generally, there are two categories of Chinese Wushu, traditional and contemporary. "Traditional" includes styles such as Hung Gar, Choy Li Fut, etc. "Contemporary" refers to the  dynamic performance styles of today's Wushu (acrobatics, dramatic leaping techniques, etc). Within the traditonal and contemporary categories, there are the "internal styles (styles that emphasize the cultivation and use of "Qi" or universal force/energy), and "external" styles (styles that emphasize the use of physical technique and strength).  Seattle Wushu Center teaches the external-contemporary method, as made popular by many martial arts celebrities such as Jackie Chan and Jet Li. The contemporary method is characterized by sharp dynamic performance, aerial kicks, leaps, and gymnastic maneuvers. Traditional training methods are blended into our curriculum to provide a well rounded training program for all ages.  We also offer Taijiquan, an internal method of Wushu. Taijiquan is characterized by its slow flowing movement, its use of Qigong ("energy skill"), and emphasis on using proper mindset, form, relaxation, and the cultivation of Qi  instead of only physical strength.

     Wushu was first introduced into the United States in the 1970's, when the acclaimed Beijing Wushu Team visited Washington D.C. and performed Wushu for President Richard Nixon. (One member of the Beijing Wushu Team at that time, was none other than action star Jet Li). Wushu started gaining popularity in the 1980's, and in the 1990's  Wushu coaches from China moved to share Wushu in the United States. Today, there are many accredited Wushu schools, as well as college Wushu clubs in the USA.

Q: Do I need previous martial arts experience or a high level of flexibility?

A: No previous experience is required. All classes are structured with the student's natural ability in mind, and the goal of strengthening one's weakness and enhancing one's strengths. Everyone has different degrees of flexibility, and training in Wushu can improve your current level of flexibility. 

Q: I see that your sessions are on a quarterly basis. Do I have to wait for the next quarter to start before I can enroll in a beginners class?

A: Beginners may join the beginner's classes at anytime, however they may not advance to the next level of experience at the same time as their classmates (that already have a little more experience). Tuition for beginners is pro-rated for the quarter, depending on when they join.

Q: Do you advise tournament competition?

A:  The choice to participate in martial arts tournaments is solely at the student's discretion. Students should notify the teacher of their intent to compete, so that appropriate training and extra practice can be arranged, as well as obtaining a silk uniform (if the student does not already have one)

Q: Does SWC do demonstrations?

A: Yes, our demonstration team is available to perform demonstrations for events, schools, clubs, entertainment, etc. If you are interested in having SWC perform at an event, contact Sifu DeJesus directly.  

Q: What is Tai Chi?

A: Tai Chi Chuan or Taijiquan, translates as "Grand ultimate fist". "Taiji" refers to the Taoist concept of duality in the universe. It is said that without this duality, or opposite polarities, the universe as we know it would not exist. Examples of these dualities are hot & cold, up & down, male & female, etc. These dualities are symbolized by the yin-yang symbol (itself called "the Taiji"). It is this harmony between yin and yang that stabilizes the world as we know it. As we practice the flowing movements of Taiji,  we aim to balance the yin and yang within ourselves.