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 The physical development component of From the Garden to the Table enhances these food practices by promoting lifelong skills in physical activity. The physical development programs are based on martial arts techniques and Tai Chi. These traditions support the core concepts of physical education, flexibility, weight bearing exercise and aerobic activity. In addition, the students gain the benefits of self-discipline and ongoing challenge as they learn and improve their skills.
Traditional martial arts were founded to enhance physical, spiritual and academic growth through discipline. FGTT physical development program focuses on the White Crane system of Chinese martial arts.
The Story of the White Crane System
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| Sing Lung Lo Jung |
White Crane kung fu has its origins in Tibet, and is probably the one of the oldest "classical" styles. The legend is that it began with an old man who would contemplate daily near a pond. One day he was observing a beautiful white stork, when out of the forest came a gorilla. He feared that the ape would destroy the bird, but was amazed by the bird's elusiveness and ability to peck vital parts of the gorilla's anatomy. Afterward, he meditated daily upon the bird's actions. One day, two armed robbers attacked him, and without thinking, he defeated them both. When he reflected on his actions, he realized that he had mimicked the movements of the crane. He then set about to study and preserve this knowledge, which today is called the White Crane system. Today this system is one of the major, revered schools.
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