The Seven Principles
There is more to practising Tang Sou Dao than simply being able to perform good techniques. Students are also members of society and as they are expected to behave themselves as befits martial artists within the training hall they are also expected to conduct themselves with honour and dignity in society. These principles are chosen to reflect the philosophy of our academy’s name, the Ren Yi Wu Kwan.
1. Show Loyalty to the society of which you are a member
2. Be obedient to your parents and elders
3. Show respect for instructors and senior grades
4. Exercise self control at all times
5. Do not boast of your skills but show humility
6. Take responsibility for your actions
7. Share your knowledge with others
The significance and the meaning of the Emblem
Three colours have a particular relevance in the Ren Yi Wu Kwan Tang Sou Dao. To understand them is to know a little more about your chosen art and the Chinese principles upon which it is founded.
The WHITE colour is used to symbolise the beginner who comes to Ren Yi Wu Kwan. They are empty of knowledge of our art but are eager to learn, having as yet, untapped potential for development.
The RED colour is a vibrant colour belonging to the class of things known to Chinese as yang. It denotes a desire to acquire knowledge, a drive for understanding and progress.
The outer NAVY BLUE colour is a cool colour worn by dan/duan (duan is the Chinese for dan) grade instructors. It signifies a maturity in understanding the techniques, principles and applications of practice.
The BLUE colour belongs to that class of things which the Chinese describe as yin. This is the opposite of red/yang and its presence within our emblem highlights the need for balance. All extremes are harmful, so Ren Yi Wu Kwan aims at a well-balanced approach to martial training.
You may also note that the fist (symbolising the physical aspect of practice) is smaller than the Way. This is because the Way encompasses and surrounds all things.
Incidentally, the fist is a yang principle and the Way, a yin principle. So once again we achieve a balance.
Significance of Belt Colours
1st-3rd Duan – Navy blue within the Ren Yi Wu Kwan, a navy blue belt is used rather than a black one. This is because traditionally, black symbolises that attainment of perfection in terms of both performance and understanding and we do not feel that any student or master – no matter how dedicated and accomplished – can ever attain perfection within their lifetime.
4th Duan and Above/Shi fu Grade – Navy blue with red centre trim. Red is a vibrant colour and it is incorporated into the highest-grade belts to signify that training must continue in a vibrant and enthusiastic way. Red serves to remind us that regardless of our grade and knowledge, we all have a responsibility to continue with our personal development.
Grading & affiliation procedures For instructors joining Ren Yi Wu Kwan From outside the academy
The Founder and his senior instructors will consider all applications for membership to Ren Yi Wu Kwan and if approved, a private assessment will be held.