Adult Student’s Corner
by Sifu D’Arcy
Fu For You Summer 2026
The old saying goes “Variety is the spice of life”, which means to keep things interesting, you need to keep things different. Applying this saying to Kung Fu keeps that main aspect intact but adds an additional benefit. But let’s start with the obvious meaning: use variety to keep things interesting.
Have you ever found yourself falling into a rut with your training? Find it difficult to maintain the motivation to keep showing up and putting in the effort to improve? Well, you are not alone. At WKFA, your martial arts journey is not a short one. In the case of advanced students – training has already spanned many years, with an even longer road ahead. While it is important to have a consistent training plan, it’s equally important to keep things interesting by adding some variety. Here are just a few suggestions on what you can do:
Sparring Strategies: You can make every sparring class a lesson in variety by sampling different tactics. Are you a default hand-fighter? Try some kicks! Do you typically spar like a Tiger? Try out counter-fighting! The strategies are virtually endless and you can mix-and-match things to keep them new and interesting.
Technique Training: In your daily practice, if you find yourself defaulting towards your favourite techniques, just switch it up. Rotate between training your kicks, and punches and add a variety of your favourite combinations. Or, try randomly picking multiple techniques and work them into a new combination.
Varying Strength Training: Rather than constantly working through the same strengthening routines, explore alternatives. Tired of pushups? Use weights, or various plank-style movements. Bicycles got you down? Work a variety of ab exercises that achieve the same results. On your own time of course, not in class.
Different Classes: Sampling different classes is another great way to keep things fresh. You’ll experience the teaching methods of different instructors and train with different classmates. Changing your regular class routine always keeps things fresh and interesting.
Speaking of different classes; this is where we find the additional benefit I referred to at the beginning. Every instructor takes their own approach to structuring their classes. We all bring different teaching methods and strengths to the table and instruct students with our own unique styles. Experiencing a variety of instructional styles allows you to determine what teaching style works best for you. It may even help you find ways to improve your Kung Fu by experiencing a different teaching style.
At the end of the day, following a schedule for your training is extremely important. It lays the foundation of discipline and helps keep you accountable to yourself along your journey. Within that schedule, there is always room for variety. Personal growth never happens in your comfort zone; it happens when you step outside it and challenge yourself.
