Beginner Orientation
Open practice is informal and partner-led. You do not need to arrive with a particular style, uniform, or level of experience.
Push Hands includes partner exercises for developing structure, sensitivity, coordination, and balance. Some exchanges use fixed patterns; others allow stepping or freer movement.
These gatherings are open practices rather than formal classes. Experienced participants often share context, but everyone is there to practice and learn together.
Before you arrive
- Wear easy-moving clothes without exposed metal zippers or prominent buttons.
- Remove watches, jewelry, and anything that could catch on a partner.
- Use practical footwear suitable for park surfaces.
- Bring water and sun protection appropriate for outdoor training.
Common questions
Do I need martial arts experience? No. Tell partners you are new and ask to begin slowly.
How physical is practice? It can be very gentle or dynamic. Partners should agree on pace and pressure.
Will there be instruction? Sometimes, informally. The main format is peer-to-peer practice.
Does it cost anything? The recurring park practices listed here are community gatherings.
Community Etiquette
Useful Push Hands depends on trust. Communicate before contact, respect your partner’s limits, and make skill rather than domination the point of exchange.
Before each round
- Agree on the exercise. Decide if you are doing fixed pattern, stepping, or free Push Hands.
- Set an intensity. Start lighter than you think you need to and increase only when both people are comfortable.
- Make stopping simple. Either partner can say stop at any time. Reset without argument.
During practice
- Protect your partner and avoid unsafe force.
- Respond immediately when someone asks to slow down or change format.
- Do not treat every exchange as a contest.
- Ask before teaching and rotate partners generously.
In a public park
Share the space respectfully: keep paths clear, supervise belongings, and leave the area cleaner than you found it.