武术的精髓是什么？技巧，还是力量？
What lies at the core of martial arts – technique or strength?
是基本功。
The answer is basic skills.
入寺十年，练习基本功，是武僧释延亮每天必做的功课，因为少林武术，尤其是少林兵器的练习，必须要有扎实的基础。
A monk named Shi Yanliang has been daily practicing basic skills for 10 years at the Shaolin Temple, as Shaolin martial arts require a solid foundation, especially when it comes to featured weapons.
基本功训练为练武打下扎实基础。A solid foundation of basic skills is essential in martial arts. /CGTN
释延亮擅长表演双刀，一种用于舞台表演及展示的双兵器。与传统双刀相比，表演双刀的外刀片更薄更软，挥舞时，可以发出清脆声响，从而营造更好的舞台效果。
Shi Yanliang excels at using broadswords, a kind of a weapon often presented in stage performances. The blades are thinner and softer than the traditional broadswords. Crisp sounds are made as one wields them, creating a mesmerizing stage effect.
释延亮，少林寺武僧团教练。Shi Yanliang is the coach of the team of Shaolin monks. /CGTN
虽是表演用刀，想要练好却并不简单。表演双刀有很强的展示感，步法跟刀紧密结合，还有很多腾空的技巧摔法动作，对练习者各方面的素质都有很高的要求。
Although they are only used for stage performances, it is not easy at all. It is about combining footwork with the swings of the two broadswords. The presentation involves several moves, including jumping and falling. In this way, it poses pretty high requirements on those aspiring to practice it.
释延亮擅长表演双刀。Shi Yanliang excels at double broadsword. /CGTN
首先是对全身力量的控制，尤其是腕力，需要通过基础体力训练，增加肺活量和肢体上的爆发力。为了增加手腕、手臂以及腰腿部的力量，释延亮每天都要进行扔石锁和棍法等练习。
The first thing is the control of the body strength, especially the wrists. One needs basic physical training to increase lung capacity and strengthen arms. In order to strengthen wrists, arms, waist and legs, Shi Yanliang practices basic skills every day, such as tossing stone padlocks and practicing cudgel tricks.
扔石锁有利于对身体力量的掌控。Tossing stone padlocks is helpful in learning to control the body strength. /CGTN
此外，由于两手出力，需要同时运用右脑和左脑，双兵器的难度还在于如何掌握身体的协调性。
Moreover, simultaneous movement of both hands requires a great command over both left and right sides of the brain. Dual weapon usage is difficult because it requires a high degree of coordination.
在日常生活中，释延亮会有意识地锻炼自己，无论是吃饭还是做别的事情，都尽量用双手，以增强身体协调性和手腕的灵活度。
Shi is always conscious of the need to improve coordination. Therefore, in his everyday life, he tries to use both his hands to eat and do other things, which also makes his wrists more flexible.
双兵器的难度在于如何掌握身体的协调性。Dual weapon usage is difficult because it requires a high degree of coordination. /CGTN
为了弘扬少林武术，少林寺也会做一些外事交流和展演活动。作为少林寺武僧团的教练，释延亮经常参与编排武术节目，但他最重要的任务，仍是带武僧团，每日练习基本功。练武并非一日之功，每一个动作，都要转化成肌肉记忆，成为自己的一部分。
The Shaolin Temple also organizes international exchanges and performances to promote Shaolin martial arts. As the coach of the Shaolin monks' team, Shi often choreographs for the team. But the most important task is to lead the team in practicing basic skills every day. Martial arts cannot be mastered in a single day. The practitioners need to turn every move into muscle memory.
释延亮带领武僧团，每日练习基本功。Shi Yanliang leads the team in practicing basic skills every day. /CGTN
“只要你把它做好，坚持下去，这就是你的功夫。”
"As long as you do it well and stick to it, you are a kungfu master," Says Shi.
功夫不仅可以强身健体，还能磨炼自己的意志和心性。释延亮希望，通过交流和表演，能让世界认识中国工夫，懂得少林精神。
Kungfu can strengthen body as well as one's mind and willpower. Shi hopes the world can understand Chinese kungfu better and understand the spirit of Shaolin through their exchanges and performances.
释延亮，少林寺武僧团教练。Shi Yanliang is the coach of the team of Shaolin monks. /CGTN
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