When it comes to competitive martial arts in Singapore, most people think of striking arts, such as boxing or Muay Thai, or grappling arts. But beyond those high-impact styles, there is a potent and less publicised road – the internal martial arts. Central to this is Nam Wah Pai, a martial arts system in Singapore that combines traditional Tai Chi, Qigong, and internal Kung Fu into an organised and effective discipline.

For those martial artists looking for a regimented curriculum that combines physical fitness, spiritual realisation, and organised progression, Nam Wah Pai is a one-of-a-kind “future martial arts” provider.

Why Compete in Martial Arts?

Competitive martial arts make the experience much better. It’s an opportunity to transition from the controlled environment of sparring sessions to the adrenaline and anxiety of the fight, when technique, timing, and the strength of one’s mind are all tested. Competition, for instance, will accelerate your skill development because you’ll be forced to apply what you’ve learnt under pressure. They also help you build confidence and mental strength by teaching you how to deal with stress.

You also know that your opponents are doing everything possible to throw you off balance, make you think on your feet, and get back on track right away after making a mistake. Beyond personal improvement, tournaments offer a sense of community. You’ll get to know other martial artists, connect with coaches, and tap into a larger scene extending past your gym walls. And most importantly, they provide direction for your training. Your practice sessions become much more focused and intentional when you have a goal in sight.

How to Get Started in Tournaments & Competitions

1. Join a Gym With Competitors: Not every gym in Singapore is about competing. Suppose you are serious about competing in tournaments. In that case, working with a gym that offers fight camps, high-level sparring intensity, and a proven track record of supporting competitive athletes is advisable. They should also make you ready physically and mentally.
2. Learn and Compete: You need to know the regulations for scoring in your field and what you can and can’t do before you register. All martial arts have restrictions on the competition length, how points are awarded, what techniques are legal, and what gear you need. Knowledge of the rules means confidence and fighting smart.
3. Sign Up for Local Tournaments: When the time comes and you’re ready, look out for local events. There is a steady stream of tournaments between the different martial arts in Singapore, many of which include an amateur bracket. Your gym is likely already involved in frequent tournaments and can assist you with registration, weight management, and optimal performance.
4. Train with Purpose: Competition preparation requires more than regular classes. You will also want a planned training format that includes technical drilling, sparring, body fitness, and recovery. Food, sleep, and mental training are all important elements of the process. Stay tight to your coach and make sure you attain your optimum performance at the proper time for each event.
5. Step Into the Ring (or Mat): Remember to breathe, remember your training, and stay calm. Win or lose, something must be said about your first battle. Then, take a step back and reflect on the experience, using that information to help pinpoint any necessary changes in your training.

What Nam Wah Pai Offers

Nam Wah Pai teaches an eclectic mix of traditional Chinese martial arts, focusing on internal power and energy. Nam Wah Pai trains students in the following disciplines:

• Yang-Style and Zhaobao Tai Chi: Tai Chi at Nam Wah Pai is not limited to achieving calmness and flow; it is also taught as a martial art effectively applied to real-life scenarios.
• Qigong: Basic exercise form to generate internal energy (Qi) for health and organ forfeiture.
• Xing Yi Quan & Bagua Zhang: Two internal martial arts aimed at explosive power, versatility, and subtle action.
• Shaolin-style Kung Fu: A traditional, rigorous style with an internal emphasis. Technical Principle 2.

The goal is not a quick win. In Nam Wah Pai, fighters are developed in stages: the body first, followed by breath, then the mind and spirit. It’s a long-term path to martial mastery.

Why Join Martial Arts Classes in Nam Wah Pai  

Nam Wah Pai focuses on developing internal energy (Qi) through dynamic Qigong and Traditional Yang-style Tai Chi. These routines are designed to preserve healthy organs and to increase general stamina and internal strength through full-body fluid movements.

Training in internal martial arts such as Xing Yi Quan, Bagua Zhang, and Zhaobao Tai Chi takes students from external conditioning to applying internal methods to produce force for martial or healing purposes.

For martial progress, Nam Wah Pai provides a systematic development of internal arts, including a gradual advancement of striking power levels, from motion-matching strikes to spiritual energy-emitting strikes. There’s also a special programme available through the martial arts class for university-aged students who wish to develop their conditioning, sparring skills, and internal power, as well as form and weapon training.

Ready to Join? 

If you have chosen the path of martial arts, which are as much about health and fitness as self-defence techniques based on ancient traditions, there’s Nam Wah Pai. Please contact us today for our class schedules, introduction classes, or to learn how we compare with other schools.

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