I joined Zhen Ren Chuan in July of 2010. Over the past nine months I have noticed many beneficial changes from my training at the school. Vastly improved flexibility, increased muscle mass, and improved stamina are the most visible improvements. Unseen but just as important is an increase in mental discipline, patience and focus.
Prior to joining the school I had a moderately active lifestyle (some gym, running, hiking), but fitness was never really a serious goal or achievement of mine. Training at ZRC has turned that into a reality. Every class is physically and mentally challenging, but I find myself wanting to come back the next day, to continually improve and build upon and what I've learned so far. The curriculum has significant depth and variety, as well as weapons practice for the advanced students. I come 4-5 times a week now and there's always more to learn!
The instructors here are highly qualified and very skilled at guiding students of all abilities. Being terribly inflexible, many of the movements were far beyond me when I started. This was initially frustrating - I saw the gulf of ability between myself and the instructors as a tremendous obstacle. The instructors have helped me to work through this and improve my range of motion. It wasn't easy, but I had someone there every step of the way - to teach, encourage, push, and above all, believe that I could succeed.
One day I realized I was able to lock my leg out and kick above my waist. Later on I could touch my toes. It seems simple enough, but having never been able to do these things before. I was incredulous, but the evidence was staring me right in the face. Instead of stopping there, I have embraced new goals. The limits I mistakenly believed I had no longer exist, having been replaced by new limits. With time, hard work, and the support of the great instructors and other students at the school, I'm confidant that I will surpass those as well. And the next set. And so on.
I would highly recommend this school. Come by, talk to the instructors, and try out a class! Even if you're already active through a gym, running, cycling etc. this school could serve as an excellent cross-training activity. You won't regret it!
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