Yue Chia Chu'an Fa:
Historical Background:
Yue Chia is a philosophy of martial training believed to have originated within the northern Shaolin temple, Hunan Province, China (circa, post A.D. 1,100). In the 1950's, renowned Karate master Eizo Onishi learned the philosophy and methods from Kochi Kyo (northern Shaolin master), in Taiwan. Beginning in the early 1970's, Sifu Thomas F. Smith studied Yue Chia under Master Onishi for several years in Japan. Sifu Smith later founded the Shaolin Temple of Michigan (located in Westland), which has been in operation since 1985.
Sifu Christopher Scafone has studied Yue Chia since 1994 and he is the first and only individual to earn the ranks of 3rd, 4th, and 5th degree black sash in the art under Sifu Thomas Smith. He has also earned ranks in Aikido and Karate, and has studied Raja yoga since 1995. Sifu Robyn Scafone has studied Yue Chia since 1997 and holds a third degree black sash in the art. She has studied Raja yoga since 1999. The Scafone's founded Infinite Path Martial Arts in 2002, located in Clawson, MI. - 48017, 248-336-8488.
The lineage listed above represents only one line of teachers within the philosophy of Yue Chia. While relatively obscure in the West, there are other known schools of Yue Chia Chuan Fa (and undoubtedly others unknown the the authors of this page) within the United Sates, and the art is widely practiced in Taiwan.
The Practice:
Rooted in efficiency and self-expression, Yue Chia is both science and art. Yue Chia includes long range, close range, joint locks, chokes, throws, grappling, weapons, chi-kung and meditation. Emphasizing practical application and using the attacker's energy against them, the art is ideal for all students regardless of size and strength. Study includes both solo practice methods and a wide array of partner exercises. Students are also exposed to the principles and methods of Raja and Hatha yoga.
Forms (Kata/Hsings):
Infinite Path Learning Environment:
In the Shaolin tradition, Yue Chia rejects all notions of sport or competition. Students work together as partners rather than opponents, thus learning is safer, more thorough, and more meaningful. Only training methods that honor the health, function, and longevity of the body are utilized. While students of Yue Chia develop total mind / body conditioning and highly practical self-defense skills, the true nature of the art is personal transformation, the unlocking of one's unique, infinite potential in all areas of life. The practice of meditation is regarded as the deepest level of the art.
Interested individuals are invited to contact us to schedule a free introductory class.
Infinite Path Martial Arts
509 Fisher Court - Clawson, MI 48017
248-336-8488
Contact Us: ipmacontact@yahoo.com