What lies at the core of martial arts – technique or strength?

The answer is basic skills.

A monk named Shi Yanliang has been daily practicing basic skills for 10 years at the Shaolin Temple, as Shaolin martial arts require a solid foundation, especially when it comes to featured weapons.

Shi Yanliang excels at using broadswords, a kind of a weapon often presented in stage performances. The blades are thinner and softer than the traditional broadswords. Crisp sounds are made as one wields them, creating a mesmerizing stage effect.

Although they are only used for stage performances, it is not easy at all. It is about combining footwork with the swings of the two broadswords. The presentation involves several moves, including jumping and falling. In this way, it poses pretty high requirements on those aspiring to practice it.

The first thing is the control of the body strength, especially the wrists. One needs basic physical training to increase lung capacity and strengthen arms. In order to strengthen wrists, arms, waist and legs, Shi Yanliang practices basic skills every day, such as tossing stone padlocks and practicing cudgel tricks.

Moreover, simultaneous movement of both hands requires a great command over both left and right sides of the brain. Dual weapon usage is difficult because it requires a high degree of coordination.

Shi is always conscious of the need to improve coordination. Therefore, in his everyday life, he tries to use both his hands to eat and do other things, which also makes his wrists more flexible.

The Shaolin Temple also organizes international exchanges and performances to promote Shaolin martial arts. As the coach of the Shaolin monks' team, Shi often choreographs for the team. But the most important task is to lead the team in practicing basic skills every day. Martial arts cannot be mastered in a single day. The practitioners need to turn every move into muscle memory.

"As long as you do it well and stick to it, you are a kungfu master," says Shi.

Kungfu can strengthen body as well as one's mind and willpower. Shi hopes the world can understand Chinese kungfu better and understand the spirit of Shaolin through their exchanges and performances.