Shaolin Kung Fu is a style of martial art which uses a broad range of self-defence techniques. All students start on building a solid foundation through various stance drills which helps strengthen the legs and core. We also incorporate the use of pad work which helps develop hand and eye coordination, understanding the use of force and technique.
Here is a list of just some of the things we teach.
The basics
Our students start their training by learning not to rely on physical strength, but technique. We begin by teaching them how to punch and kick effectively, how to use footwork and blocking to evade an attack, and how to use short and long range self-defence techniques such as joint locks and throws.
Form
In years gone by the use of form was used to develop stamina through a sequence of pre-arranged techniques which help develop coordination and movement. This is something not too dissimilar to modern day shadow boxing. Our forms incorporate multi angle as well as multi level application which helps foster a better understanding of “flow” and “centre”.
Weapons
Once students have learned to master basic techniques they are taught how to defend themselves with different types of weapons. These include long staff, spear, dagger, broadsword and butterfly knives. Although many are centuries old, all have modern equivalents and by learning how to use them students develop control and technique that can be transferred to modern-day situations.
Animal styles
The monks at the Shaolin Temple used to watch the way animals would fight. From watching these animals the monks devised moves and techniques into various fighting skills. We teach seven main animal styles which have their own sub-school within the system which is taught at the higher grades.
Chi-gung
These are breathing exercises which are used to relieve stress, improve concentration, strengthen and nourish internal organs and to teach you how to channel your body’s own energy, its chi, into a movement or part of your body.
Chi-gung has been around for over a thousand years and helps improve strength and functionality of internal organs. Chi-Gung breathing exercises incorporate postural positioning which are either static or in movement, breathing techniques which use the lower diaphragm and mental focus.
Sparring
We use sparring in order to give our students an understanding of how to use technique while under pressure. It also gives the student a better understanding of utilisation of power as well as the importance of mental focus. We utilise a full range of techniques which allows the student to gain a better insight into the various levels of combat.
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