Kung fu

Po: Close your eyes. What do you hear?
Young Caine: I hear the water. I hear the birds.
Po: Do you hear your own heartbeat?
 Young Caine: No.
Po: Do you hear the grasshopper which is at your feet?
Young Caine: Old Man, how is it that you hear these things?
Po: Young Man, how is it that you do not?

(Kung Fu)

What is kung fu?

In the early 1970's, the TV series Kung Fu offered Western viewers an intriguing glimpse into the world of Chinese kung fu.
What people remember is the polite, composed manners of the characters, the philosophical nature of the art.
Kung Fu was thought-provoking, insightful. With lessons about living, as well as about combat.

This modest TV show inspired many people to explore the martial arts.
David Carradine went on to star in the movie The Silent Flute; continuing the same philosophical quest.

Kung fu

The term 'kung fu' refers to a large number of martial arts systems developed in China.
Kung fu training typically involves:

  1. Chin na (seizing)

  2. Conditioning exercises

  3. Grappling (shuai jiao)

  4. Self defence

  5. Stretching

  6. Striking


Internal/external

Kung fu is frequently classified as being 'internal' or 'external'.
Most kung fu systems are external.
These styles rely upon the use of strength, speed and muscular tension.

There are only a few styles of internal kung fu (neijia).
Instead of force, they cultivate internal strength and a different kind of striking power.
Internal kung fu is more philosophical in nature; employing taoist principles.


Syllabus

We offer internal kung fu.
Class members explore baguazhang, chin na, self defence, shuai jiao and tai chi chuan as a martial art.
Students learn all aspects of the curriculum and work through a very extensive, structured training program.
From the onset you are introduced to material that is more advanced than what is normally practiced in the martial arts.


Our values

We approach kung fu with certain factors in mind:

  1. Health is top priority

  2. Natural, unimpeded body use

  3. Vertical frame

  4. Spontaneity of action

  5. Self defence application is mandatory

  6. Strict adhesion to tai chi classics, baguazhang principles, taoism and zen

  7. Maximum effect for minimum effort

  8. Suitable for all ages, and not gender-specific

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Page created 25 August 1994