After the learning of 6-ES, I thought it would be interesting for Paul to learn the long pole. The easiest pole method I know is the Shaolin 6 1/2 point pole taught by Master Leong.

The form is more like a short sequence of 7 movements than a proper form. The advantage of this is that anyone can learn the sequence very, and I mean, really very quickly. Once you get the hang of it you can practice it in various ways.

For a more extensive study of the possibilities of using the long pole a much longer, more proper form makes for a better study. However, if you do not understand how to manipulate the pole then learning a longer form would not help much. In this regard it is better to study simpler techniques first that can teach you how to use the pole.

This is how we can begin the study of the long pole :-

1) Draw circles – stand in one spot and using the long pole to draw medium circles. First clockwise, then anti-clockwise.

When you get the hang of it, try drawing the circle anti-clockwise as you step laterally to your right. When you step to the left, draw the circle clockwise. Try to coordinate your stepping with the movement of the pole.

2) Technique 1 – blocking an attack to your leg by moving your pole from right to left, essentially drawing a quarter circle clockwise from 3 o’clock to 7 o’clock. First, move your right leg out of the way by moving your right foot to your right, and do the block.

Later you can move the rear left leg to follow the right leg as well. Once you get the hang of moving both legs, add in a follow up attack.

3) Technique 2 – this time move your leading right foot to your left and block from 9 o’clock to 5 o’clock.

4) Technique 3 – move out of the way of an attack to your left temple by stepping your right foot to your right. Block by moving your pole from 3 o’clock to 11 o’clock.

5) Technique 4 – this is similar to Technique 3 except the attack is to your right temple. Move your right foot to your left and block by moving the pole from 9 o’clock to 1 o’clock.

Once you get the hang of the above four techniques you can learn the balance three techniques.