BEAST SCHOOL

RIVER TRACING

Feel the spray of waterfalls and the cool embrace of ancient waters as you journey deep into breathtaking river gorges. River tracing is a unique, sensory adventure, revealing hidden natural wonders with every step upstream.

About

Course contents

Instructors

What’s included?

faq

Puli River Trace: Your Aquatic Journey Awaits!

Immerse yourself in a transformative two-week martial arts, qigong, and yoga retreat in a serene aboriginal village nestled in lush forests and rivers just outside Taipei. This retreat is designed for anyone seeking personal growth, physical conditioning, and inner peace, regardless of experience or background. Under the guidance of expert coaches Will and Benji, you’ll explore a holistic blend of ancient practices that harmonize mind, body, and spirit.

This retreat offers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with ancient practices while surrounded by the pristine tranquility of nature. Bring your dedication and a positive attitude, and we’ll guide you through an unforgettable journey of transformation and empowerment.

Join us just outside Taipei for this life-changing experience—where nature meets tradition, and every moment is a step toward balance and mastery.

River Tracing Mastery: Foundation & Training

Learn proper equipment usage, including ropes and basic safety gear, alongside crucial river reading skills to identify safe paths and potential hazards.

Strength & Application

Elevate your river tracing capabilities from foundational skills to confident mastery. This phase focuses on building the physical strength and advanced techniques required for challenging aquatic environments.

Tailored to All Levels

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned practitioner, the program is customized to your needs and abilities.

Expert Coaches:

Our couches bring years of experience and passion to help you achieve your goals.

Flexible Training Options

Start with two weeks and extend your stay for further development and exploration.

Nature-Focused Setting

Enjoy a peaceful campsite surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with accommodations to suit every preference.

Extra Adventures

Optional hikes and city tours allow you to explore Taiwan’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes in your free time.

River tracing training system

Explore Endure Evolve

Hiking & Scrambling Upstream

This is the core of river tracing – moving against the current. You’ll be walking on riverbeds, over slippery rocks, and navigating uneven terrain, often requiring light scrambling using your hands and feet.

Climbing Waterfalls

Encountering natural waterfalls is a highlight. Depending on their height and difficulty, you might climb them using ropes, fixed ladders, or by finding natural footholds alongside the cascades.

Swimming & Wading Through Pools

You’ll frequently encounter deep pools and clear sections where wading through water or fully swimming is necessary to continue upstream. This is often where you get to cool off and enjoy the refreshing environment.

Jumping/Sliding into Pools

At safe, designated spots (always under guide supervision), there might be opportunities for exhilarating jumps from rocks into deep pools or sliding down natural rock slides.

Train with the best

MEET your
Instructors

Ready to learn from the true masters of the wild? Our instructors are seasoned adventurers, certified experts, and passionate educators. They bring real-world experience, safety expertise, and a genuine love for teaching. Get ready to train with a crew dedicated to sharing their knowledge and making your adventure unforgettable.

Petr Novotny

PARTNER

The visionary behind Beast Runners, as a key member of our extended crew and a valued partner. With his unparalleled expertise in trail running and organizing challenging outdoor events.

Eva Lobo

PARTNER

With Seediq and Atayal heritage, serves as the head of Beast Runners. She is dedicated to promoting Taiwan’s local natural landscapes and indigenous cultures, blending tradition with modernity to become a vital bridge connecting the mountains and local communities.

Petr Novotny

PARTNER

The visionary behind Beast Runners, as a key member of our extended crew and a valued partner. With his unparalleled expertise in trail running and organizing challenging outdoor events.

BEAST SCHOOL

Course fee

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Feel the spray of waterfalls and the cool embrace of ancient waters as you journey deep into breathtaking river gorges. River tracing is a unique, sensory adventure, revealing hidden natural wonders with every step upstream.

River tracing training system

What’s included?

This is an extremely exclusive course with a small number of participants able to join. Outside of training time we will be offering a series of additional experiences in the wulai area.

  • Training
  • Guided Hikes
  • Lunch
  • Accommodation
  • Waterfall visit
  • River Trace

duration

2 + weeks

Location

PUli, nantou

difficulty

We meet you at your level

FAQ

Can I get a discount if i want to Train Longer?

Yes, we offer discounts for extended training periods, with fees adjusted based on your length of stay. Longer stays also provide the opportunity to advance to our Level 2 training, enabling deeper learning and further progression in the YogaMartial system.

Can I commute From Taipei Each Day?

Yes, daily commutes from Taipei are convenient. A regular bus runs every 15 minutes, dropping you off within a 10-minute walk of our training facility. Taxis are also readily available, costing approximately 200 NT (5 euros). For added convenience, we can arrange a direct pickup from the metro, just 15 minutes away.

What kind of food do you serve

We offer a variety of delicious dining options to enhance your retreat experience. Enjoy convenient food delivery featuring mountain chicken, wild pork, authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and traditional Taiwanese dishes. Additionally, we often host barbecues with succulent wild boar, creating a warm and convivial atmosphere for shared moments of enjoyment.

What experience level do i need to have?

Everyone begins at Level 1, completing 10 mini-seminars to master the fundamentals of YogaMartial. Progression leads to Level 7, known as the Diamond Body—a state of mastery where body, mind, and spirit are fully refined. The number 7 symbolizes completion, transformation, and balance across traditions. It aligns with the 7 chakras, the 7-star stance in martial arts, and the Vajra (diamond) state in Buddhism. Achieving Level 7 means transcending technique to embody the essence of YogaMartial—physically, mentally, and spiritually.