EnglishIn early November, the Nofødra School once again hosted an exceptional workshop in Oslo, led by Matteo Pepe-Espert — pedagogical director of the Phénix & Dragon school. The program included:
- One full day devoted to combat nunchaku — technical work and scenario exercises
- Another day focused on Qi Gong — a deep study of the “49 movements” form (Daoyin Qi Gong) by Master Zhang Guang De forme des 49 (Daoyin Qi Gong, de Maître Zhang Guang De)
It was a full day where beginners and advanced practitioners were able to train together in a warm, energizing atmosphere … and with plenty of laughter!
Qi Gong: Deep Exploration of the First Two Parts of the 49-movement Form
- Understanding the meridians (energy channels) and their associated organs
- Work on release, grounding, and breathing
- Detailed breakdown of movements and their underlying intentions
- Establishing flow and coordination in the sequences
- Internal sensations and circulation of qi
- Mindful, guided practice
Combat Nunchaku: Rich Learning and Total Immersion
- Basic handling and smooth transitions
- Work on distance
- Strikes and defensive blocks
- Footwork and movement
- Partner work in pairs and trios
- Themed sparring and free-form duels
This workshop was appreciated for its clarity and for transmitting the deep spirit of Qi Gong with simplicity and authenticity!
It was praised for its precision, benevolent rigor, and contagious energy!
What Participants Said…
🇫🇷 Retour de Laura (Paris, France), sur la journée Nunchaku
“Thanks to the Oslo workshop, I was able to revisit a lot of the basic combat nunchaku techniques. Of course, mastering a technique in one day is hard, but what I’ll remember most is the great time we had together. Fighting to music was a brilliant idea — both playful and energizing for our movements. A beautiful memory!”
🇳🇴 Gilda (Oslo, Norway), sur la journée Qi Gong
“An incredible day, a real energy reboot where the theoretical teachings perfectly complemented the practice. It was super interesting to learn more about the meridians and how to use them to enrich one’s Qi Gong practice. Thank you, Matteo!”
🇳🇴 Stefan (Oslo, Norway), sur la journée Nunchaku
“Thank you for a very pleasant and enriching weekend. The nunchaku workshop was a unique experience: fun, stimulating for the body and the mind. I especially loved the two-against-one drills and the 10-point duels! Next time, a demonstration with a real nunchaku would be amazing. Count me in for the next workshop! 👍🏻😁”
🇳🇴 Henrik (Fredrikstad, Norway)
“Nofødra’s workshops are always extremely pleasant and enjoyable. They’re also a rare chance to explore Chinese martial arts in real depth. The teaching is precise and kind, delivered by experienced instructors. You fully immerse yourself in the topic, and it gives true inspiration for the weekly classes. Always centered on health, body respect and enjoyment—a real joy!”
🇳🇴 Torstein (Oslo, Norway), sur la journée Qi Gong
It was a great seminar with a good mix of theory and practice. Learning about the meridians and the five organs first gave me a better sense of what we were working with, and when we then practiced some of the 49 movements it all came together. It was a wonderful and enlightening way to spend the day!
🇳🇴 Erlend (Oslo, Norway), sur la journée Nunchaku
“Thank you for an excellent workshop! As a beginner, it felt good to be (more or less) at the same level as most others 🙂 It was challenging—more than I expected—but also very fun! I felt myself improving throughout the day. I went home really happy. Thanks for the organization, and thanks to Pepe for the training!”
🇳🇴 Sebastian (Oslo, Norway), sur la journée Qi Gong
As a complete beginner, I found Matteo’s Qi Gong seminar incredibly welcoming and informative. I appreciated learning about chi, the meridians, and how these concepts connect to the practice. I also valued the way Matteo shared his personal story and how Qi Gong has impacted his physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I left feeling inspired and curious to continue learning more about Qi Gong.
🇳🇴 Tim (Oslo, Norway), sur la journée Nunchaku
“I had a wonderful experience during the workshop with Matteo Pepe-Espert! His teaching is clear, engaging, and full of positive energy. Everyone progressed, beginners and advanced students alike. Matteo shared not only technical skills but also the spirit and philosophy behind nunchaku practice. I left with more confidence… and a big smile! Looking forward to future workshops, in Oslo or in France!”
A United, Enthusiastic Group — Ready for What’s Next
Blending rigor, creativity, body awareness and the joy of practice, this workshop once again highlighted the strength of the partnership between Nofødra and Phénix & Dragon.
A big thank-you to all participants for their commitment, good spirits, and martial energy!
See you soon for the next workshop in Oslo!
