Tang Shou Dao is a martial art originating from China, which combines open-handed and sword techniques in training aimed at developing physical and mental abilities. Like many other traditional martial arts, Tang Shou Dao emphasizes a balance between strength, agility, and mastery of proper technique.

For those of you who are interested in learning Tang Shou Dao, this article will provide guidance on how to practice properly in order to master the basics and develop skills in this martial art.

1. Warm-up
Before starting Tang Shou Dao training, it is important to do a good warm-up so that the body is ready and free from injury. Warming up also serves to increase flexibility and increase blood flow to the muscles. Here are some warm-up steps that can be done:

Muscle Stretching: Focus on the neck, shoulders, arms, and legs. Do rotational movements of the neck and shoulders to reduce tension. Slot Raffi Ahmad 77

Dynamic Stretching: Do dynamic arm and leg movements, such as arm swings or lunges, to increase flexibility and agility.
Cardiovascular Exercise: Jog or do skipping to increase your heart rate and prepare your body.
2. Basic Positions (Stances)
Proper body position is very important in Tang Shou Dao because it can help maintain balance and increase the effectiveness of the technique. Here are some basic positions to learn:

Horse Stance: This position is the basic position often used in Tang Shou Dao training. Stand with your feet wider than shoulder width apart and bend your knees slightly, making sure your body remains upright. This position develops leg strength and body stability.
Warm-up Position (Bow Stance): This position involves one leg in front and one leg behind with the front knee bent 90 degrees and the back knee straight. This position helps improve agility and thrust in sword techniques.
3. Basic Techniques Practice
After learning the basic positions, the next step is to master the basic techniques of Tang Shou Dao. Practicing these basic techniques will help improve coordination and body control when performing movements.

Punch: The basic technique in Tang Shou Dao involves a powerful and targeted punch. Punches are delivered with either an open or closed hand. Practice punching by aiming your hand directly at the target with sufficient force.

Blocking: Using your hand to block an opponent’s attack is essential in this martial art. Practice different types of blocks, such as the lower block, side block, and upper block to protect your body from attacks.

Sword Techniques: The sword is an essential element in Tang Shou Dao. Sword technique training involves various striking, parrying, and cutting movements. Some basic sword techniques include horizontal, vertical, and diagonal cuts.

Palm Strikes: This technique involves using the palm of the hand to strike a part of the opponent’s body, either for a direct attack or a side attack. Practice the speed and accuracy of these open-handed strikes.

4. Breathing Techniques
Tang Shou Dao teaches the importance of regulating breathing in every movement. Good breathing techniques can help improve stamina, strength, and mental focus.

Diaphragmatic Breathing: Use diaphragmatic breathing, which is taking a deep breath in through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. This can help control energy and improve concentration.
Breathing in Movement: When performing an attack or defense technique, make sure to keep your breathing under control, that is, inhale before making a movement and exhale forcefully when attacking or blocking.
5. Forms
One of the most important aspects of Tang Shou Dao training is the formation (or kata) training. Formations are sequences of movements designed to develop basic techniques and improve body coordination. Formation training is done repeatedly until the movements can be done smoothly and naturally.

Basic Formation Training: Beginners can start with basic formations that combine punches, blocks, and sword movements. This training is done sequentially without an opponent, and aims to strengthen the body's memory and practice the techniques consistently.

Partner Drills: After mastering the basic formations, partner training can be done. In this training, two people train together with the roles of attacking and defending each other, so that the techniques learned can be applied in more realistic situations.

6. Weapon Training
Tang Shou Dao also involves the use of various weapons, such as swords, sticks, and others.