Rankings & Levels
Ranks / Titles
While rankings are not part of traditional Kung Fu, their use allows for the easy demarcation of different skill and learning levels of the students. Since advanced learning is predicated on learning the basics, it allows for an even flow of training over time.
Within the Yinglong system there are 6 ranks leading up to the black sash.
- Beginner Level: Gold, then Orange
- Intermediate Level: Green, then Purple
- Advanced Level: Blue, then Brown
The Expert levels include 4 levels of Black Sash.
- First level black sash indicates a mastery of the basic elements of the Yinglong system. The student earns the title of Shi-xing (elder brother) or Shi-jie (elder sister). This title could also be adapted to better suit your personal identity.
- Second level black sash indicates an expanded knowledge of the Yinglong system, including independent study. The student may also decide to take on teaching duties. If they opt for this, they will receive the title of Lao-shi (assistant instructor).
- Third level black sash requires the student to demonstrate teaching ability as well as advanced understanding of the Yinglong system. If they reach this level, they will be awarded the title of Sifu (master) and are allowed to teach at all levels within the system. Only students who seek to become full instructors can advance to the 3rd level black sash.
- The Grandmaster of the system is the only person to hold the 4th degree black sash and the title of Si-Bok.
See below for more about the curriculum designed for each level.
CURRICULUM BY LEVEL
BEGINNER LEVELS (gold and orange sash)
In the beginner levels the student will learn all of the stances and most of the common footwork, the 5 basic blocks, the 5 basic strikes, beginning level kicks, the basics of chin na, the 2 basic forms, and the basics of the spear.
INTERMEDIATE LEVELS (green and purple sash)
The intermediate levels contain the greatest amount of information and training for the student. At this the level the student starts with learning the Tiger Kung Fu system, which focuses on strength and ferocity. After learning Tiger, the student learns the Dragon Style System focusing on power and fluid motion. At this level the student also learns the more advanced footwork, strikes, blocks and kicks. Weapons at this level include the spear, staff and broadsword.
ADVANCED LEVELS (blue and brown sash)
At the advanced levels the amount of new physical training decreases, whereas more advanced personal safety and violence prevention techniques are the focus. Students use these levels to polish their physical moves as they add to their overall knowledge of the Yinglong System. Weapons at this level include the broadsword, quandao and straight sword.
EXPERT LEVELS (1st, 2nd & 3rd Black Sashes)
At these levels students are expected to know, and be able to demonstrate, all physical expressions of the Yinglong System. The student must also be knowledgeable about all the academic and theoretical doctrines of the system. At this level the student will learn the straight sword and the steel fighting fan. The student may also opt to start assisting with teaching.
