Short Weapons
The saber (Dao) was introduced in China later than the straight sword (Jian). The Dao is a single-edged sword with a curved blade. The "Marshall of all weapons", since was mostly used by military soldiers. The saber is also linked to the "fierce of the tiger" because of its fast and vigorous techniques.
"The saber must be as spirited as a tiger"
The short staff is the first weapon we teach adults, as part of the Mei hua quan program. The forms of short staff prepare the student to train with the saber. Movements are fast and circular and include stabbing, blocking, and weapon disarming.