The 'standing pole exercises' are a unique form of callisthenics involving the cultivation and integration of mind and body under the conditions of non-movement or slight movement. In this book, the authors outline the ancient Chinese tradition of therapeutic exercises, now known as qi-gong, of which these exercises form a part, the practice of the 'standing pole exercises' today, and the physiological factors underling their therapeutic effect. These exercises constitute a very simple and effective system for the treatment of illness and the development of overall health and fitness, suitable for practice by persons of all ages and physical constitution.

Contents

Inroduction
Section I A brief history of the 'art of nourishing life'
Respiratory techniques
Circulationg 'Vital breath'
Meditation techniques
The Dao-yin tradition of moving exercises
Standing pole-Zhan Zhuang
Section II Da cheng quan boxing's standing pole exercises
Theoretical basis
Essentials of practice-Relaxation; Concentration and 'entering a quiet state', Posture; Breathing
Certain points to be noted in practice
The standing pole exercises-Standing postures; Sitting postures; Lying postures; Moving exercises; Walking forms; Some supplementary exercises
Section III Therapeutic foiundations
Preliminary investigations into the physiological basis of the therapeutic value of the standing pole exercises-Effects on the cerbral cortex and central nervous system; Blood circulation; Respiration; Fatigue
The special physiological characteristics of the standing pole exercises-A highly adaptable form of mental and physical education; A non oxygen -debt exercise; The effects on blood circulation; Posture; A form of diagnosis and treatment combined
About the authors