George Xu & Friends

George Xu (Xu Guo Ming) has been an influential promoter of Chinese Martial Arts almost from the day he arrived in the West. Expert in Xing Yi, Tai Chi, Bagua and the rare Lan Shou Boxing, he is an enthusiastic teacher who is also very concerned about finding out the truth of CMA. A constant student himself his style is natural, spontaneous, aware and predatory. His insights are of the kind which "give away the secrets" right in public, where often they are missed. He has probably been the topic organizer of visiting teachers from China who, amazingly, are proponents, like himself, of edgy, traditional, serious and what we call "organic" Kung Fu which, always and forever, resembles nothing so much as the soul of the performer and never the pasteurized line and lean of modern performance martial arts. Many of these following DVDs are, indeed, lectures which some times less than perfect sound and lighting. Often George narrates for others with a thick accent and his own often humorous insights. These will require a lot of study but, the nice thing is, there's a lot to study here.

See more of George Xu DVDs and videos...
Tell me about Lan Shou Men Kung Fu

NEW!! DVD#25145 George Xu MasterWorkshop

George Xu’s workouts are the answer to that often asked question from students, “What do you do as a workout?” There’s a lot of curiosity about what the teacher practices and the answers are not always encouraged. I knew a teacher once who, when asked the questioon, would respond tersely with “It’s none of your business.” Technically he was right. You don’t ask your doctor what diseases he’s suffering from. This is a high level workout from one of the most dedicated of CMA experts. It contains Warm Ups, Overview, Dantian Training, Dantian Gong, Power Stretching, Spiral Training, Spiral Exercises, Bagua Spiraling, Bagua Form Demo and is, in itself, a complete practice. Good quality, work right beside a top level instructor.
See a clip of this DVD.

NEW!! DVD#25138 George Xu Workshop Drills & Exercises

Continuing with his concept of "becoming a predator" George Xu gives a lecture/workout with a number of interesting ideas. He discusses the organization of the back muscles as six groups to be controlled and shows four exercises to do it. Many of them are simplified forms form Chen Tai Chi and XinYi training which makes this a great introduction to do-able movements which retain the depth of the more advanced arts. Great beginning class stuff. He moves to a series of marching exercises which people can take at just about any level they can understand even to fairly advance practitioners. Next he shows a series, 14 CIRCLES DRILLS. We haven't correlated everything in this series so we can't say there are no repetitions of the contents of other disks but this one is the most simplified and accessible of all George's work yet. NOTE: Yes, this entire series and the one before it have the SAME PICTURE. Make sure you get the right order number.

DVD#25136 George Xu Martial Qigong
(also called "Longevity Qigong)

Despite the grainy camera work, this is a little treasure of a DVD. Once again, Xu Sifu comes up with simple but intriguing exercises. Although the DVD is titled Martial Qigong, most of the exercises here would be good for health maintenance. This is especially true with a 10-part exercise developed by Xu himself, which he guarantees has efficacy in stroke prevention. Probably the best neck maintanence series we've see (but of course care should still be take...) . However, there are some major concepts, such as his 'ocean' idea, and his 'third hand' imagery, which could be significantly useful for martial training.

From copy:
Qigong Exercises Shrinking and expanding the Qi throughout the wole body, all directions
Space Power - Harmonizing the external Qi with internal Qi, retun to the
baby, physical becomes unconscious like an ocean in space.
Qi going through whole body, energy sinking to earth.
Third Hand - Bai Hui to Hui Yin shrink/expand, front/back, up/down simultaneously moving.
Breathing Techniques - Back open/close and diaphram breathing.
Stroke Prevention with neck and head exercises, 10 movements.
Head and neck massage for Qi and blood circulation.

(This is subtitled "Part One" but is a stand alone. The name was changed to Martial Qigong later. )

DVD#25137 George Xu 18 Circles
for Power, Mass, Speed and Freedom

Like his friend, Adam Hsu, Geroge has one of those minds which seeks the essence of things. Also, as a maturing martial artist, he is distilling his decades of study into significant observations. In this DVD he does what will be fascinating to some people and possibly disappointing to others. He shows the major movements of all Chinese martial arts as a group of simple but profound circular exercises. He also demonstrates the applications and gives strong hints not so much as the "Qigong" but toward the Nei Gong issue of what internally is occuring. For those fascinated with the underpinnings of the art this will be of great interest.

From copy:
Between moves he demonstrates with Shifu Matthews the move's application  and explains the internal details of his unique theory. You'll hear him  discuss what he calls “energy techniques," such as “shrink and expand," “melt," “qi go through," “suck  in the legs and arms," “subconscious body," “space  power," “return to the baby," “pure internal,"  and the “third hand." Master Xu also talks about four types  of exercise, or levels of ability, developed during a life of martial arts training, giving their names in Chinese as well as English.

Length - 1 hour 35 min.

DVD#25134 George Xu & Yu Xiao Lin

Drills, Qigong and Forms
Double DVD with each DVD dedicated to one artist

Part One

Demonstration of part of Chen style by George Xu.
Demonstratioin of some Xin Yi movements with some indication of usage.
Huen Yuan Qigong, lengthy demonstration.
George breaks at points in this series of Qigong for some intriguing and insightful remarks on topics such as Qigong and the Mind. His seemingly casual but actually highly concentrated approach is excellent. So is that feeling from George, given by all too few instructions, that he is a work in progress (as we all should be). Unlike those boring, adamant teachers who give the impression that they've already discovered the Secret and now become fat and smoke more, Xu is always trying to improve himself as though—amazingly— the art was actually worth the effort.

TongBei drills to open the back and shoulder
10 Key movements from Xing Yi, long section.
Chen Saber form demonstrated.

Part Two

Yu Xiao Lin goes into major detail on the Four Energies of Tai Chi. This is one of the most mysterious aspects of Tai Chi to non-Chinese. He doesn't concentrate so much on the endless circling of the Four Hand exercise as breaking down all opportunities to actually use the Four Energies and then showing numerous variations of them.

Then he starts on the Four Secondary Energies and shows many demonstrations of ways in which to apply, Pluck, Split, Elbow and Shoulder. Also a rare treat to to see Vincent Lynch practicing and helping out.

Yu shows quite a number of energy issuing exercises as sequential marching patterns. Very nice, loose and insructive. He following with a "Qi Rolling" exercise where his fingers are entwined for the entire experience, a la Swimming Dragon Body Qigong.
He goes on to demonstrate the Fan Song or Relaxations Exercises, a major consideration in Tai Chi development. 
Finally there is a fascinating demonstration of the first section of the Yang Ban Hou Tai Chi.

About 1 1/2 to 2 hours

DVD#25129 Wang Tang on BaGua Zhang

This is a nice, informative lecture by Wang Tong, a student of Li Zi Ming, on the history, nick names, styles and principles of Ba gua. A charming background it is without demonstration and suffers a bit from the difficulties of simultaneous translation. This one could be called the "Lineage and Developement of Bagua". For those not interested this might become tedious. At the fifteen minute mark Wang Tong Sifu thanks everyone then continues to talk for six more minutes. But if you want to hear someone who has "been there" this is a nice piece.

Length - 20 min.

DVD#25131 Yun Yin Sen discusses LiuHe BaFa

On Liu He and Xing Yi. This couch interview shows George Xu as interviewer of Yun Sifu asking key questions on CMA theory and principles. Some of George’s translations are a bit less than clear but the overall information and the process of the interview we see as dealing with much information “from the horse’s mouth”. Some ideas are even stumbling blocks for Xu and these reveal the kind of insights that only a lifetime of practice can reveal. (There's a lot of "finger calligraphy" going on, which Chinese speakers do when they don't recognize an audible word.) Yun also discusses such topics as LHBF’s history which is a very thin line: Wu Yu Hui, his grand master at China San Shou Kung Fu Academy in Nanjing; Chen Xuan founded LHBF; Sung dynasty about 700 years ago. Yun speaks of LHBF’s part in returning his health. Some very sticky issues are addressed and, for the serious, this offers much to think on. After the interview Yun works with Susan Matthews and shows the details of his operations in a very clear and friendly manner. Many possible techniques for studying with a partner or introducing to a class. What works for LHBF would also help in Tai Chi and other tactile explorations. The sound isn't perfect but the information is very good.

DVD#25104 8 Pieces of Brocade
and Susan A. Matthews MS.

Susan Matthews, head of the Shanti School of Tai Ji, demonstrates one of the most famous of Qigong forms: The Eight Pieces of Brocade. She does this standing in front of a mirror so we get the benefit of a double view of each action. Her instruction is detailed but also has the informality of personal observations, how she felt a certain move, how she solves a problem in exection. Her instruction is clear and detailed. This is a very good approach to learning this 800 year old, treasured set even if you are trying for the first time.

About 27 Minutes        

DVD#25125 LiuHeBaFa with Yun Yin Sen
and George Xu,

Yun Yen Sin Teaches Liu He Ba Fa, Primordial Qigong, and Push Hands at this week-long Summer Camp with George Xu in the beautiful coastal redwoods near San Francisco (La Honda). This DVD has a lot of material especially if you already know LiuHeBaFa or Taiji. Yun performs the Water Boxing LHBF set with continuous commentary by George Xu who speaks intelligently on the issue of CMA as "quiet" martial arts. This is followed by a very distilled discussion and demonstration of Primordial Qigong which concentrates on bringing Qi outward more than Dan Tian driven styles.

Over 50 Minutes         

There is a sense of self-sufficiency imparted by martial practice. One real key, long understood in martial circles, is your monitoring and sensitive maintenance of your own body. This is where responsibility begins. This DVD is a well-paced, open-hearted teaching session on breast self-examination. This can be an issue fraught with trepidation and Matthews approaches it gently but thoroughly. Discussions on the method are highlighted by woman telling of their experiences. The more you know about problems with mammograms, benign and other growths and the still rather primitive conditions in women's health (There was a time not too much in the past where all medical mastectomy studies used for reference were solely focused on men!) the more you will see that this is an essential extension of self-massage. We have heard too many stories of our sisters, mothers and daughters afraid to touch their own bodies ... If you need context, this is also an ancient and well established Daoist practice. But the real point is that it works and it makes everyone feel better and healthier.

"Part One includes: demonstration of the cao quan section of the Lan Shou form; basic move drills; walking drills; application demonstrations; and a few standing qigong exercises with Grandmaster Qin.

Part Two: Lan Shou Muscle-Tendon Stretching Exercises. This 35-minute DVD is a review of stretching exercises that Master Wu Ji's taught as part of the Lan Shou system training during China Camp '07. The exercises are grouped together for easy follow-along learning."

Brrr. Put on your jacket before you watch this two hour presentation of Barring Arm style. We are working out in the mists of early morning Colorado. This pair of DVDs explore that fine fighting system Lan Shou. The first shows the Chow Quan form then breaks it down with marching sections to master in phrases. Next we get to see applications by teacher Qin Zhong Bao AND grand-teacher Wu Ji. There is also a section on Lan Shou standing Qigong. The 2nd DVD is a real time review of the Muscle-Tendon exercises for Lan Shou. All real CMA styles have some tendon stretching but some, like Pigua and Tong Bei, used this method extensively. This is a very good, complete and slightly challenging series of movements combining stretching and issuance of energy. Not a generic series of "Qigong callisthenics".

Notes on this instructor...

In this DVD, S. Matthews acts as interviewer to draw from George Xu his observations on how to understand the true nature of Tai Chi. Thee are the questions more people should have asked. He covers many essential concepts demonstrating his ability to issue and some of the finer points on the requirements between external and internal training. His explanations have the ring, and are indeed indicative, of much hands on training for long periods of time. He is open and informative and drives so directly to the core of the practice that the educated viewer will realize that he or she had MORE work to do from having listened to Xu; but also more rewarding work. Xu also shows supplementary exercises to enhance the feeling of the internal movement. Note: Even though George comments on Susan's questions in English someone has wisely subtitled the entire DVD to increase clarity.
Notes on this instructor...

DVD #25102 Lan Shou Form
George Xu

Here is the core form of the Lan Shou system. We refer to the name as "Barring Arm" Boxing but it can be thought of as blocking or obstructing arm. Particularly strong in TianJin area Lan Shou may appear at first glance as a combination of Baji Quan and Tan Tui. Tough to imagine, we know, but think of a Long Fist art that has retained it animal qualities although—as if often the case in high level Northern styles—the animal quality is on the inside, not in the poses. George Xu shows the set through a "follow me" type of instruction where he repeats it numerous times with almost no verbal instruction. The set is show in its entirety and also broken down but, once again, with only visual clues. George's point may be to say "concentrate" and you'll learn it. They say Northern stylist who fought Bruce Lee back in the day, Wong Jackman, also like to instruct without talking. Lan Shou Qigong is also shown. This also has a demonstration of the form by Ye Xiao Long.
Notes on this instructor...

About 60 Minutes        

DVD #25103 Lan Shou Applications & Saber
George Xu

This is a combination of DVDs. The first is a breakdown of the movements in the key Lan Shou hand set. Xu Sifu demonstrates each section of the Lan Shou form along with numerous applications for the set. He explains in a mixture of Mandarin and English. There are also a number of partner drills with variations some as simple as Three Stars and others of more complexity. Next he shows Lan Shou's Saber form. This is a good form elegant in its mixture of real saber energies and precise movement. The only flaw in the film is that the time code was left on and, though annoying, it doesn't detract from any information .
Notes on this instructor...

About 70 Minutes        

DVD #25109/10
10 Animal 6 harmony
Training #1 & #2
with Qian Zhao Hong
Two DVDs

This is a pair of DVDs showing the famous ten animals of Xing Yi of, in this case, the Six Harmony (Liu He) branch.

Tape #1 starts with George Xu showing his Chen Tai Chi. Qian Sifu follows with his Xing Yi Quan. His interpretation is high and almost seems (appearances can be deceptive) stiff as he performs this unusual Xing Yi form but at the same time his control of Jing issuance is obvious and immediate. Next comes applications and spontaneous counters. Much of the commentary derives from George Xu reading notes on the basic energies and explaining their meaning. Then comes a kind of round robin open demonstration from both Xu and Zhao. The focus here is power application and refinement. At this point the seeming "stiffness" of Zhao's interpretation is made understandable in someone utilizing the form, as he should, to refine and demonstrate his particular fighting skills. The overall production is worth the effort but will require concentration and that rewind button. This is a chance to watch two top teachers comparing notes on usage.

Tape #2
Basics are shown with both George leading people through a series of good, solid warm ups and some Xin Yi basics. Then Qian shows his style of Xin Yi basics which seem to lay much importance on “crossing” movements which traverse the medial line.Then each practitioner demonstrates his version of the animal movements.

Walking and Applications follow with focus and posture explained.
Next is a breakdown of all ten animals demonstrated by George Xu then Zhao. It's interesting to see the variations of movements, personality and emphasis between the two practitioners either of which has practiced these basics thousands of times. After each animal George Xu and Qian Zhao Hong each demonstrate many variations of each animal on a student. This open style compare and contrast shows a rich variety of applications and angles. . .
Notes on this instructor...

Part One 69 , minutes
Part Two 49 minutes

Part One  $19.95

Part Two  $19.95

Set of both  $29.95 SALE PRICE!

DVD #25106 On Being a Predator
George Xu :Chen Tai Chi lecture

George Xu explains his theory of predator energy used in the practice of Chen Tai Chi but really in any Chinese martial arts. This is an extension of his concept expounded some years ago in print on "animal" qualities well distinguished from "animal imitation" boxing where you try to look like the animal.In this lecture, admittedly sometimes difficult to hear and with a little break up, George Xu lists his eight attributes for practice. His ideas are really important and worth a number of viewing. One of the best explanations of what is missing from so much contemporary practice. You'll go back to this one over and over.
Notes on this instructor...

About 60 Minutes        

DVD #25114 Lecture on LiuHeBaFa
with Yun Yen Sin

The "Six Harmony Eight Methods" style is becoming more popular by the minute. According to George Xu the only reason it wasn't better loved sooner was that rich people in Beijing adopted Tai Chi much more openly. There probably is some truth in this and LHBF, which has been around longer than TC, is making up for lost time. It shares many of the attributes such as soft and full body movement. This entire lecture focuses on the use of the wooden (or any) ball as a training device. The ball can be a great training aid because it forces you to act like you are an internal stylist. Whole body movement which, take it from us, is VERY hard to grasp becomes easy with a ball in front of you. Good for ANY Kung Fu stylist. Note: In Chinese with immediate translation. A big room for a seminar, informal setting, some application to push hands, leg circling also shown.
Notes on this instructor...

About 60 Minutes        

DVD #25120 & 21
China Camp '07 Form Demonstration
with various artists

Forty-six martial artists from several disciplines and locations in China, USA, Italy, Germany, Norway, and Denmark perform their forms in this prestigious event. Names and styles are provided in titles of each performance, so you get to know who these accomplished martial artists are.

See the list below of demonstrators in this series

#1 about 69 Minutes #2 about 61 Minutes