Posted by HorseHead on October 15, 2002 at 15:43:38:
Bul mu do includes a number of forms as well. And it is obvious that the forms, while including some difficult kicks, tend to
emphasize smooth, flowing hand techniques. Certain movements resemble praying mantis and crane-style kung fu, and are
performed at a somewhat slower pace than normal Korean and Japanese forms. Another noticeable difference is the way the arms
remain extended for most movements, usually with the hands open and moving in a circular manner. The exact number of
movements in one form was not determined, but there were definitely more than in most other styles. It should be noted that the
chief monk vehemently insisted that complete mastery of a single form, with all its intricacies and secrets, would result in one's
being able to defeat virtually any adversary.
Next on the agenda comes sparring. Only two participants fight at any one time, thus receiving the master's undivided attention.
They get an almost constant stream of advice, correction and criticism. Beginning students perform in slow motion, placing
emphasis on using correct form, hitting the exact target and patiently waiting for any opening mistakenly offered by the other.
The degree of contact is substantial, but not brutal. Each defender spars for approximately three to four minutes. While they take
turns, their attacking opponent never changes, always being the most advanced student of the class.
Whenever he faces higher-level adversaries, the pace increases, as does the power and variety of techniques. Hand and foot
movements are most prevalent, but also common are grappling and throwing. And following a takedown, a monk has no choice
but to proceed using his knowledge of ground fighting. No safety equipment of any type is employed. It is claimed that to use it
would be unnatural and could produce a false sense of security. Throughout the 20 or so minutes in which this takes place, the
master's most common order is: 'Continue. Continue. Don't stop until you are in control.'
An hour after he arrived, the master quietly stands up. The students once again come to attention, and together they bow to the
representation of the Buddha at the front of the hall. Then the master turns, accepts and returns the other monks' second bow, and
walks slowly out.
But class is far from over. Instead, another 90 minutes of exhausting practice will follow. Now, that same monk who was able to
perform all the previous feats takes the role of instructor. He does not sit upon the platform, but stays down on the floor,
personally assisting all the other students. This is the chance for the beginners to improve their ability. They show the same
attitude toward him as they did the master. However, the atmosphere in the training hall is different. They relax somewhat,
allowing themselves conversation and even some humor. But still, training takes precedence over all else.
There was one notable difference here from our usual concept of Buddhist monks undergoing martial arts practice. That was
weapons training. There were no broadswords, no short swords and most surprisingly no wooden staffs. In fact, no weapons of any
kind are associated with bul mu do. When the instructor was asked about this anomaly, he replied simply, 'How can a monk use a
weapon on another human being?' But in reality, it is clear that the entire body becomes the weapon with which they can defend
and, when required, attack with amazing swiftness and skill.
*; =qq(