Imphal: Mabu-Gongbu-Chong Quan (horse stance-bow stance-straight punch) have such a positive impact it is hardly any wonder that wushu is gaining popularity in the region.

The Sports Authority of India, along with the Wushu Association of India, is holding a five-day national training course for wushu coaches under the guidance of Chinese experts at Khuman Lampak sports complex here from Monday.

The Sports Authority of India has engaged five Chinese wushu experts - Liang Yadong, Qin Rancong, Zhang Xian Ou and expert Li Qiaoling, professors at Beijing Sports University, and Zeng Fang of the International Wushu Federation. The five arrived here on Sunday.

Altogether 100 coaches were selected for the camp. Of these, Manipur has seven representatives, Bihar, Tamil Nadu and Odisha have four coaches each and most other states and Union Territories having two coaches each. SAI also selected 16 of its coaches for the course.

Coaches from the defence forces and other paramilitary forces are taking part as well.

The camp will be on till Saturday with theory classes in the morning and practical sessions in the evening at the newly inaugurated indoor hall near the Manipur Olympic Association office. The SAI has allocated Rs 18.06 lakh for the course.

During the inaugural function, Zeng Fang said, "There is a need to upgrade our learning skills to enhance wushu. Only then can one truly enjoy the game and spread it far and wide. We have been working tirelessly towards the inclusion of wushu in the Olympics and we hope with everybody's participation we can achieve the goal."

After witnessing the performance of the state's wushu players, she said, "They are very good. It is very satisfying to know that they are pursuing the sport with their heart and soul. This is what the game calls for."