A Beginners Perspective
by Sam Carroll Berwick, Vic.
My name is Sam Carroll. I first set foot in the Golden Lion Academy Berwick approximately six months ago, as a parent bringing their child (Jack is six years old) to learn Kung Fu.
It was through observing the professionalism of the instructors and thinking about the value of Jack's lessons and what he was learning, that my desire to learn a Martial Art was rekindled.
Like many middle aged people, tying to juggle time between my family and work seemed hard enough without extracting more time out of the equation, however I thought it would be fun to share an interest with my son (and hopefully his younger brother).
I had my first lesson only Seven weeks ago and I did find my first couple of lessons quite challenging, but considering I have not done any real fitness work for several years, that was perfectly normal.
In the weeks that followed the lessons have felt significantly less taxing, enabling a greater focus on the lesson content.
From the first lesson you soon realize that Kung Fu is as much an intellectual pursuit as that of a physical one. The subject matter content covers a myriad of topics for your mind to explore and much about the development of self values and character.
From my time spent at Golden Lion Berwick I have started to understand that Kung Fu is a life time commitment for those who choose to follow the path.
The physical conditioning techniques practiced deliver results, my class has a diverse group of varying ages, shapes, sizes and statures and they are all physically fit.
Following my weekly lesson I could not remember feeling so relaxed yet energized, this is beneficial to our busy family life as this helps to make the most of our time together.
A further ongoing experience from this unique activity is that of increased clarity of mind. My mind feels like it is getting fitter too. This helps me at my job as I can concentrate longer and produce more accurate results, which greatly reduces or even eliminates daily workplace pressures.
Kung Fu also teaches us about determination and the will to succeed. In a fortunate society we are easily conditioned to getting what we want immediately, in Kung Fu you get the reward after the work has been done, it's a very honest system that can help to develop mental toughness, which we can apply throughout our life.
When people ask me about Kung Fu they usually want to know solely about the self defense aspects, while to comment only on this component does not do the art justice. I will say to anyone thinking of coming along that you will be amazed at the grace, speed, power and control of the self defense applications, this you must see.
It would be impossible not to take something positive away from your time at Golden Lion Academy Berwick due to the culture fostered by Si Gung Richard Tsui-Po, Si Hing Troy Dawes and all the instructors. I promise you will be humbled by the effort, attention and focus they give to your development.
If you are thinking about the possibility of starting Kung Fu, maybe this article may motivate you to come and join in and experience it all for yourself.
It has been my pleasure to share this story with you, hopefully see you here.
Regards, Sam Carroll.
