INTENSIVE COURSE

2026–2027

Transform your passion into a way of life: a unique intensive course for those who wish to explore the internal arts as a path of personal development. Become part of an innovative community of practitioners and teachers, guided by Master Mauro A. D’Angelo.

THE COURSE AND THE MASTER

The DECODE Intensive Course offers a unique opportunity to work in direct contact with Master Mauro A. D’Angelo. In addition to the scheduled sessions held throughout the year, you will have the opportunity to remain in continuous contact. This approach recreates the traditional close relationship between master and student, adapting it to the needs of modern life.

The approach focuses on depth of practice and the quality of results. This course has been designed for those who wish to work with the essence of the internal arts, using them as a means of inner and physical transformation. Practice thus becomes a way to explore and develop your fullest potential in every area of life.

The teaching method is the result of years of experience and in-depth research. Master Mauro A. D’Angelo has studied and practised several Chinese internal systems, including Wing Chun, Tai Ji Quan, Ba Gua Zhang, and Yiquan (Dacheng Quan). He currently lives in China for much of the year, where he continues an ongoing research project into martial arts and Eastern holistic disciplines. This continuous exploration, together with the desire to apply knowledge in a concrete way, is reflected in the course’s teaching approach, which brings together tradition and innovation to offer a distinctive and profound learning experience.

To discover more about the Master’s life and journey, visit the dedicated page:

MASTER’S PAGE

PROGRAM

The training offered through the Intensive Course provides the most in-depth exploration of the DECODE programmes. Each exercise will be analysed in detail, allowing every participant to understand its key principles and develop greater independence in their practice.

Each meeting will be divided into practice sessions and study sessions. During the study sessions, you will learn the DECODE programmes, the theoretical foundations connected to them, and the preparatory work required for each exercise.

During the practice sessions, the Master will guide you through training and provide focused individual corrections.

DETAILS OF THE FOUNDATIONAL THREE-YEAR
INTERNAL ALCHEMY PROGRAM

CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICES

Mindsetting: oscillations

Mindsetting: visualisations

Mindsetting: evocations

Cultivation and application of the Dantian

Three Gates meditation

Microcosmic Orbit

RELEASING TENSION

Neurogenic activation

Wo Gong

Zhan Zhuang

Diaphragm release technique

Self-massage techniques

Activation of internal power

MOVEMENT AND BREATH

Breathing re-education

Oxygenation exercises

Full breathing

Walking exercises

5 fundamental Shi Li exercises

15 advanced Shi Li exercises

MOBILITY PROTOCOLS

Cervical protocol

Thoracic protocol

Lumbar-pelvic protocol

Hip protocol

Shoulder protocol

Spinal protocol

HOW, WHERE AND WHEN

FOUNDATIONAL THREE-YEAR PROGRAMME

YEAR I

6 INTENSIVE MODULES (4 hours per module)
- 5 in-person modules
- 1 online module

YEARS II–III

8 INTENSIVE MODULES (4 hours per module)
- 6 in-person modules
- 2 online modules

ADVANCED PROGRAMMES

After completing the Foundational Three-Year Programme and passing the Level One examination, students may access more advanced training pathways dedicated to deepening and expanding their practice.

These specialised pathways explore different dimensions of Internal Alchemy, including:

  • the development of multidirectional internal power;
  • tissue transformation;
  • advanced contemplative practices;
  • the use, perception, and emission of sound;
  • partner exercises;
  • a deeper study of the energetic theories of Eastern traditions.

BENEFITS AND COMPLIMENTARY PASSES

Participants enrolled in the Intensive Course receive additional benefits and complimentary passes:

- 50% discount on Open Seminars and School Seminars led by the Master

- 1 complimentary pass to attend the end-of-season Summer Camp

- Private lessons, individually or in groups, with the Master at reduced rates

- Complimentary DECODE Membership

Notes:
- Complimentary benefits and discounts are non-transferable and expire at the end of each season.
- Accommodation, meals, and travel expenses are not included in the Summer Camp complimentary pass.

SECTOR MODULES

The DECODE Method develops through three complementary and closely interconnected sectors: Internal Alchemy, Traditional Weapons and Tools, and Combat.

From the second year of the Intensive Course onwards, students may request access to modules from the other two sectors, progressively integrating their training and deepening their understanding of the DECODE Method in its broader vision.

TEACHER TRAINING

The Teacher Training Programme is offered on a three-year cycle. The next cycle will begin in 2029.

The programme is open to all Intensive Course participants who wish to complement their personal study with training focused on transmitting the DECODE Method.

REFERENCE LOCATIONS – ITALY AND SWITZERLAND

CALENDAR – ITALY AND SWITZERLAND – YEAR I

I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE PART

If you are interested in taking part or would like to receive further information about fees and other details, please complete the online questionnaire by 1 September 2026.

The form includes a section in which you will be asked to share your experience and the reasons why you would like to become part of this group. For the Master, it is important to create a group whose members are aligned in their intentions and share a genuine desire to practise. This part of the form is particularly important in the candidate selection process, so please complete it carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1Who can take part in this course?
Although most candidates are generally experienced practitioners from other disciplines, no specific technical or theoretical background is required. The new group will begin with the fundamental aspects of practice. What is essential is a sincere desire to practise with quality and depth.
2What qualification is awarded at the end of the course?
The Intensive Course is officially recognised by CSEN, a national sports promotion body, and by CONI, the Italian National Olympic Committee. Those who are interested may also undertake the Teacher Training Programme alongside the Intensive Course. At the end of this pathway, and subject to passing the final examination, they may obtain a recognised sports teaching diploma in Qi Gong and Traditional Wushu.
3Can I make up an Intensive Course module if I miss it?
Each year, you will be asked to select the reference location where you will attend the Intensive Course modules. If you miss a module, you may make it up at one of the other locations.
4Once enrolled, am I required to complete the full three-year programme?
No, there is no obligation to complete the full programme. At the end of each season, you may decide whether to continue your training. However, we strongly encourage you to complete at least the Foundational Three-Year Programme, in order to gain a comprehensive overview of the DECODE curriculum.
5Are the combat modules suitable for everyone?
Anyone enrolled in the second year of the Intensive Course may apply to take part in the Combat Modules. The Master will assess the possible admission of new students on a case-by-case basis.