Movement Programme · Gong Lian
Ganflow consists of gentle, flowing movements with a staff, specially developed by Gong Lian Kung Fu Club to improve posture, mobility and balance. For every age, but definitely for 55+ and seniors.
What is Ganflow?
Ganflow is the practice of enjoyable, distinctive movements with a staff. The movements come from kung fu. “Gan” refers to the Chinese biangan staff (鞭杆) — in essence the traditional walking stick of the foot traveller: a light wooden pole whose length suits your body — from the elbow of one arm to the fingertips of the other, with both arms stretched out horizontally. “Flow” refers to the quality of the movement — soft, calm and flowing, as in taichi (taijiquan). The staff adds an extra dimension, offering literal and figurative support.
Gently encourages a correct, upright posture.
Builds strength and suppleness in the back, hips, legs, shoulders and wrists.
Sharpens balance through slow, controlled movement.
Regulates the breath and lowers stress — a healthy mind in a healthy body.
The martial arts dimension hidden behind the movements — as in taijiquan — can be explored by anyone who is curious, but it is entirely optional. Most exercises are practised individually; there are also exercises with a partner, for anyone comfortable with that.
For whom
Anyone able to climb a flight of stairs unaided can join Ganflow. Participants perform each movement within their own limits, setting the bar as high as they like depending on age, flexibility and sporting experience — which makes Ganflow especially accessible for people aged 55+ and for seniors.
Learning new movements also has a notably positive effect on brain plasticity — memory and adaptability. Ganflow can improve or help maintain one's mobility.
Join our sessions
Gong Lian Kung Fu Club will soon organise Ganflow sessions in Kessel-Lo for whoever wants to join.
A series consists of 10 one-hour sessions, held at Sportcomplex Kessel-Lo. A session runs from 8 participants; 20 means a session is full. Should more people be interested, an extra series of 10 sessions can be organised. The first series runs on Thursday mornings and starts on 7 January 2027.
What to bring
Loose clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring a water bottle if you like.
Where
Sportcomplex Kessel-Lo, Stadionlaan 4, 3010 Kessel-Lo — in the martial arts hall.
When
Thursday mornings, 10:00–11:00
7, 14, 21, 28 January
4, 18, 25 February
4, 11, 18 March 2027
No session on 11 February (school holiday).
Pricing — individual sessions
Participants enrol for a series of 10 sessions. The fee is €100 per person (€10 per session), plus a one-off €5 for your own biangan staff. You'll receive it at your first session, and it's yours to keep. A series requires a minimum of 8 people. Participant insurance is included.
| Option | Per session | Full series (10) |
|---|---|---|
| Ganflow series (per participant) | €10 | €100 |
| A biangan staff (one-off) | — | €5 |
| Total per participant | — | €105 |
Button not working? Email us at gonglian.kungfu@proton.me.
Ganflow in your organisation
Ganflow works especially well as a movement programme for groups of seniors and people 55+ — a gentle, sociable activity that fits naturally within a cultural centre, community centre, residential care setting or association.
Venue
At your own premises, or at Sportcomplex Kessel-Lo — whichever suits your group best.
Format
A single session, or a full series of 10 — scheduled to fit your group's calendar.
Pricing
Depends on group size, venue and number of sessions — discussed together.
Get in touch to discuss what would work for your organisation — group size, preferred venue, schedule and pricing.
Button not working? Email us at gonglian.kungfu@proton.me.
Your guide
Born in 1971, Jan is a seasoned secondary-school English teacher, now working part-time. He has practised Japanese and Chinese martial arts since 1985, moving through several traditions along the way.
Together with a few friends, he ran the jujitsu club Ganbatte in Boutersem for several years, teaching the advanced group. Today he is a trainer at Gong Lian Kung Fu Club.
Contact
Questions about Ganflow? Send an email and I'll get back to you.