Nicolas Knipping works from the traditions of Qi Gong, Tai Ji Quan, and internal Gong Fu, informed by long-term training in Chinese internal martial arts and grappling practices. Yotam Peled approaches movement through contemporary dance, floorwork, release principles, and soft acrobatics. Their collaboration is based on years of shared practice and teaching at the intersection of fighting and dancing.

The first day is led by Nicolas and focuses on foundational practices of internal martial arts. Through forms of standing meditation, Qi Gong, and Push Hands (Tuishou), we work on posture, alignment, and the development of the body as a connected structure. Partner work is used to study contact, pressure, yielding, and redirection, not merely as a combative practice, but as a way to refine perception and self-observation in relation to self and another body.

The second day, led by Yotam, expands this work into floor-based movement, soft acrobatics, and release-oriented practices. Attention is given to weight transfer, momentum, and spinal organization, allowing movement to emerge from efficiency rather than force.

The workshop is conceived as an independent study format and also serves as an introduction to the five-day Structure & Release intensive taking place on May 27th-31st.

Open to dancers, movers, and practitioners interested in sustained practice, partner work, and the coexistence of martial and artistic approaches.

Curious? Here is a video from last year’s seminar:

https://vimeo.com/1090799177

Participation in the workshop requires registration in advance via email: yotampeled@gmail.com

Fee: 70 euro for both days / 40 euro for one dayIn case you are unable to pay the full sum, let us know

Rooted in Qi Gong, Gong Fu, and Tai Ji Quan, the training begins with developing body and mind as one integrated whole—refining posture and alignment. Through seated and standing meditations we establish a grounded and available form, practice letting go of unnecessary tensions, learn to breathe freely, and eventually make space for honest self-observation. Gradually, elemental Gong Fu patterns guide us from stillness to motion, structure into flow.

The internal work and the notion of Yin – the absorbing and collapsing body, is expanded into the practice of release technique and soft acrobatics. Making use of weight shifting and the articulation of the spine, we find sustainable and efficient dynamics to tackle risk-taking and virtuosity, deconstructing and sequencing drills and maneuvers originating in Capoeira. In addition to solo practice, we explore partner work inspired by Tai Ji Push Hands and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Here, we meet another body in conversation—learning to yield, redirect, and respond. This physical dialogue becomes a mirror, showing us where we resist, where we flow, and where we can grow. 

No previous experience in martial arts is needed—only curiosity, dedication, and the willingness to meet yourself in stillness and in motion. The intensive is guided by Yotam Peled & Nicolas Knipping, each contributing from their experience in movement and martial arts forms.

> 11-15.8 (monday to friday) // 9:00-15:00 daily, with lunch breaks.

> In our spacious studio in Neukölln, address given upon registration.

> Early bird price until 30.6 – 220 euro // normal price – 250 euro 

> Contact yotampeled@gmail.com