Kung-fu is the term used for Chinese martial arts.
There are varied translations from Chinese to English, due to the nature of the Chinese language, but a popular translation is 'time and effort' or 'skill'.
This is not limited only to martial skill, but to competency in any areas.
For example, a good chef, painter or dancer can be said to have good kung fu.
Fighting skills have been around since the dawn of man.
Even animals learn fighting methods and strategies through playing and observation.
Ancient man recognised the benefits of using a stick, giving birth to the first weapon.
These primitive methods and weapons have developed through thousands of years, and have been honed to the incredible Kung-fu skills we see today.
In modern times, kung-fu has developed into far more than just fighting arts.
It is an intricate blend of fighting, discipline, self-awareness, and spiritual awakening, as well as a method for health, moving art, and Chinese culture.
China is a complex and diverse nation of over 50 distinguishable races.
Throughout its long and violent history, the various cultures were at war with one another, leading to the development of more sophisticated fighting methods.
Today, there are literally hundreds of different kung-fu styles.
Martial arts diversified for a multitude of reasons: In times of peace, brutality was less important, so kung-fu began integrating the arts and local culture.
The military on the other hand developed brutally efficient regimented fighting methods, designed only to kill.
Spectacular jumping kicks and leaping were common in areas of hard dry flat land, but utterly useless in wet hilly terrains, where strong low stances were preferred.
A short stocky practitioner would develop different skills to a tall lean practitioner.
This host of differing requirements gave rise to the diverse multitude of fighting styles that were born from China, all of which can be called kung-fu.
Kung-fu, although varied and diverse, can be generically categorised in several ways:
- Long / short range
- Soft / hard styles
- Northern / southern
- Internal / external
- Modern / traditional
- Grappling / striking
- Unarmed / armed
Kung-fu typically involves learning solo sequences as a means of remembering martial techniques.
These are then expanded into applications with a partner and ultimately free sparring for those with that interest.
A sequence may contain anything from 10 to 250 movements, depending on the particular style.
We teach a broad range of classical kung-fu styles to cater for all tastes and requirements, from the popular longfist and wing chun methods, to the more obscure praying mantis and snake styles.
As the new student soon realises, kung-fu is far more than just kicking and punching.
It is a fusion of culture, philosophy, and combat, entwining physical, mental and even emotional traits.
Kung-fu is not just a fighting skill, it is a journey of self cultivation, philosophy and a way of living.
TRADITIONAL CLASS
This class covers a range of kung-fu disciplines.
The generic class is very popular, as it provides a good insight into the principles and methods used in each of the styles.
Some students like long range movements; others may prefer close range shorter techniques.
Others still, may admire the flowing open graceful styles, whilst the efficient deadly effectiveness of another may appeal to someone else.
In this class, a wide scope is covered to suit all preferences.
A class will generally include stretching, kicking, forms practice, drills and controlled application of techniques.
The various grades offer differing kung-fu styles.
This design is to allow students to specialise in a particular style/s at a later date, based on informed and broad knowledge of the arts.