Wushu puts Rashid Centre’s determined ones in action
dubai — Their feet were pointed forward, shoulder-width apart; knees bent at 90 degrees, torsos plunged down, pelvises moved forward in arches as they belted ‘leftright’ and threw punches in the air.
This was the scene when visiting Wushu (traditional Chinese martial arts) champions from China interacted with students of Rashid Centre for the Determined Ones recently. The event was part of the centre’s celebration of the Year of Zayed while the Chinese delegation’s objective was to establish Wushu as a sport in the UAE.
The Chinese wushu champions taught the students breathing exercises and also demonstrated various martial arts routines including Snake, Eagle Claw, Praying Mantis and Monkey Fist Boxing.
There were also choreographed sequences involving traditional weapons such as the two-handed and double broadsword that showcased the speed, power, accuracy, and flexibility of the visiting martial arts champions, who were all in their early 20s.
Halo Zhang from the Chinese Wushu delegation told Khaleej Times: “The students were responsive and our objective in demonstrating Wushu is to develop physical activity among the youth of various ages and abilities,” she added.
The Wushu exhibition was also part of Rashid Centre’s celebration of the Year of Zayed.
Mariam Othman, co-founder and director of the Rashid Centre for the Determined Ones, said: “Every month we have a different theme celebrating the Year of Zayed. For April our theme is focused on the youth and we are promoting good health for our students.”
Yemeni sisters Aliya Fikree, 26, and Ayma, 21, who participated in the short routine, said: “We were amazed with the performances of our visitors. We liked how they showed their skills. Seeing them in action made us appreciate more the martial arts actors we love such as Jackie Chan and Lucy Liu.”
The Wushu demonstration was a first in a Dubai school according to Emirati social entrepreneur Rashid Farooq Al Arshi, CEO of Chinwu Kung Fu (UAE Chapter). “Our objective in doing this is to introduce Wushu in various schools in Dubai as a form of physical education.”
Xu Feng, a Wushu master , added: “Wushu is also a therapeutic exercise. It can contribute to spiritual and mental peace by maintaining a healthy mind and body.”
Every month we have a different theme celebrating the Year of Zayed. For April our theme is focused on the youth and we are promoting good health for our students.” Mariam Othman, director, Rashid Centre for the Determined Ones