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The Evolution of Vietvodao
The International Way
After successfully establishing Vietvodao in France,
Master Phan Hoang entrusted the leadership of the Fédération Française de
Vietvodao to its newly elected president, Master Gérard Nguyen, in 1981. This
transition allowed him to fully dedicate himself to the international
development of Vietvodao and to deepening and renewing its philosophical
foundations.
In January 1983, he embarked on a year-long journey
around the world. This voyage—both martial and spiritual—became a defining
moment in his path. Through this experience, Master Phan Hoang undertook a
profound re-examination of the concept of martial arts. He concluded that
Vietvodao should remain rooted in the classical martial tradition, faithfully
preserving the legacy of the Seven Founding Masters.
At the same time, a new perspective emerged. Beyond
tradition, he envisioned a modern evolution—one that would move toward
harmony, beauty, and relevance in the context of the 21st century. Vietvodao,
he realized, could serve as a foundation from which new disciplines could
grow, each adapted to the diverse aspirations and needs of practitioners.
In January 1984, Master Phan Hoang left France to
settle in Montreal, Canada, where his family later joined him. As a
university professor deeply engaged in research, he expanded his exploration
of the “martial arts phenomenon” into new intellectual and practical
dimensions. From reflection, he moved into creation, developing several disciplines
rooted in Vietvodao yet oriented toward new horizons.
The Voviet Way
Voviet represents a refined and cultural evolution
of Vietvodao. It is defined as a martial art that emphasizes the beauty,
depth, and expressive quality of movement. Its quyen are designed to
elevate the practitioner, nurturing both dignity and inner development.
The Voviet training programs are adaptable, evolving
with the environment and the needs of students. Its five core quyen
are deeply rooted in the richness of Vietnamese millennial culture. Among
them, the fifth quyen, Tam Phap, stands as a remarkable
treasure within the martial arts world.
Voviet responds to those who seek the benefits of
martial practice without the emphasis on combat. It is particularly suited
for individuals who wish to build confidence, cultivate discipline, and grow
without fostering aggression.
The Way of Viettaichi
Viettaichi originates from Vietvodao, yet it is not
a martial art in the traditional sense. Its movements are characterized by
grace, fluidity, and aesthetic refinement, reflecting the noble spirit of the
practitioner.
With a rich program of approximately thirty quyen,
Viettaichi offers a wide range of practice possibilities. Among them, Tinh
Mat stands out as a living study of the twelve meridians and vital points
of acupuncture.
Viettaichi is considered an external Way, focusing
on the harmonious development of the individual within society. It appeals to
those who are drawn to the elegance of Vietnamese movement but prefer to
avoid the rigidity of traditional martial training. Its aim is to cultivate
health, balance, and joy in everyday life. In contrast, Vietkhiphap is
regarded as an internal Way.
The Way of Vietkhiphap
Vietkhiphap finds its roots in the internal
practices of Vietvodao—teachings that were rarely included in public training
programs before the mid-1970s. It is a discipline dedicated to the
cultivation of inner energy and self-mastery.
Its four fundamental quyen symbolize the
connection between human beings and nature through the cycle of the four
seasons. Complementing these are five breathing methods, the result of
extensive research, forming a structured system of eighteen exercises.
Vietkhiphap is intended for those who seek depth in
internal training, enhanced health, emotional balance, and a profound sense
of well-being. It represents a path toward harmony with nature and oneself.
In essence, Vietkhiphap can be described as the Way of stillness and inner
peace.
The Way of Vietchidao
Vietchidao represents the synthesis and refinement
of the most essential techniques drawn from the eight disciplines founded by
Master Phan Hoang. It embodies the core values and philosophy underlying
these arts.
It is important to distinguish between Vietchi and
Vietchidao: Vietchi refers to the international organization that coordinates
and supports affiliated associations across different countries, while
Vietchidao designates the discipline itself—an expression of the fundamental
principles and spirit of the art.
Conclusion
Over fifty years (1973-2026) Master Phan Hoang has
transmitted to his disciples more than 108 quyen, along with numerous
exercises and extensive writings on the Way, strategy, longevity practices,
anti-aging methods, and personal development.
Today, around the world there are about two thousand
black-belts -a new generation of masters, teachers and black belts- who
continue to expand and enrich this legacy, opening new paths for the future
of these disciplines. The Vietchi Institute has already published numerous
works, with many more to come, preserving and extending the teachings of
Master Phan Hoang.
Within this large and growing family, every
practitioner—beginner or advanced—has a role to play. Each contributes, in
their own way, to the collective progress and the living evolution of the
art.
BE STRONG, BE HELPFUL
Phan Hoang
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