Welcome. I'm a retired U.S. Army officer and former newspaper editor who embarked on my journey into Tai Chi while still in active service. Although my initial interest was piqued during my military days, my pursuit of Tai Chi was temporarily sidelined by time constraints and professional respons…
FAQs:
What is Kung Fu?
Kung Fu is a form of exercise, a means of self-defense, and an exchange of culture. It is also known as Gong Fu, Wu Shu or Guo Shu. It has similarities to the more recognized styles of Karate, as Kung Fu uses hand as well as foot techniques, yet Kung Fu is one of, if not the oldest, Martial arts. Idiomatically, Kung Fu means “energy and time”. The words “Wu Shu actually mean Martial Art. In America, we have taken the expression “Kung Fu” and have popularized it to the point where it has become the common name for the Chinese systems of martial arts. The name “Wu Shu” has been and is still used for a more contemporary, performance-oriented system of movements, the practice of which is often sponsored by the Chinese government.
Where Did Kung Fu Originate From?
There is a lot of mythology surrounding the origins of kung fu. Legends claim that the origins of Chinese martial arts can be traced back to the Xia Dynasty, which occurred around 4000 years ago. Stories about the Xia Dynasty, China's first known dynasty, tend to be more mythological than factual. It is hardly shocking that people have been working on self-defense measures for millennia. Kung fu, the modern umbrella term for China's traditional martial arts, has a history that extends back at least four thousand years. Legend has it that Huangdi, also known as the Yellow Emperor, was China's first martial arts master. He was a well-known general and author on medical, astrological, and martial arts topics before he became emperor. Chi You, the legendary inventor of jiao di (Chinese wrestling from antiquity), opposed him.
What is the Purpose of Kung Fu?
Many consider self-defense to be the ultimate goal of Kung Fu or any Martial Art. Yet, the study of Kung Fu is much more than the mere art of fighting. It is truly an art — an art that seeks to develop the body, mind, character, and soul. Kung Fu does NOT teach that we should seek to overcome other people. Rather, it is a discipline teaching us that we must look into ourselves and learn to control our thoughts, emotions, and bodies. We should always be peaceful and avoid combat. However, if faced with a situation that threatens severe bodily harm or injury, the soul should become the warrior and we must be capable of defending ourselves. Like many martial studies, Kung Fu teaches balance which is the key to movement and to the execution of technique. The concept of “balance” is thought of as keeping equilibrium between Heaven and Earth. We can only achieve this concept if we learn to focus our thoughts, concentrate and empty our minds of distraction.
What's the Difference Between Kung Fu and Karate?
Karate is generally said to be more linear while Kung Fu tends to be more circular. What this means is that Karate movements tend to take you forward with momentum toward your target, while Kung Fu movements shift weight laterally and rely more on reacting to your target’s attacks. Kung Fu, therefore, is more useful in situations where you might be grappling with your target, while Karate is a more offensive martial art. In a general sense, Karate can be used more efficiently to harm an opponent while Kung Fu can be used to stop an opponent.
What is the Function of Chinese Martial Arts?
Chinese martial arts, colloquially referred to as kung fu or gung fu and wushu, are a number of fighting styles that have developed over the centuries in China. People practice martial arts mainly for bodybuilding or defensive purposes. Today, martial arts are hailed as one of the four Chinese national treasures, the others being traditional Chinese medicine, Peking Opera, and calligraphy. And today, they still enjoy great popularity among Chinese people of different ethnic groups.
Is Kung Fu Effective for Self-Defense?
Yes, Kung Fu is a good form of self-defense. It provides a powerful defense against both unarmed and armed attackers. Kung Fu also helps you to stay calm and focused in a dangerous situation. But, it is important to note that not all kung fu styles are effective for self-defense. Also, in kung fu, there are almost no relevant techniques and training for ground fighting, which is extremely important for self-defense purposes – this is a very significant disadvantage.
Is Kungfu Stronger Than Karate?
It is more beneficial when you might grapple with your target, while Karate is a more attacking martial art. Generally, Karate may be utilized more efficiently to damage an opponent, whereas Kung Fu can be used to halt an opponent. The traditions and roots of the art date back thousands of years. What most people mean when they say "kung fu" is a fusion of hundreds of different styles and techniques throughout China. Modern styles are the result of thousands of years of cumulative wisdom. In Kung Fu's origin, rich tapestries of styles have evolved due to numerous systems formed from various regions of the world. It has benefitted many with fitness and well-being.
Is Learning Kung Fu Difficult?
Martial arts training will get challenging. At first, you may encounter obstacles you don’t know to overcome. As a result, you’ll get discouraged. Because of that, knowing what you’re getting into- will help you to stay consistent. Learning Kung fu is difficult because you’ll face many obstacles in training. As a result, you’ll get discouraged and feel like quitting. For instance, Kung fu training is intense, and therefore you may find trouble physically. However, the more effort you invest, the more progression you’ll go through.
Do They Have Belts In Kung Fu?
Yes, Kung Fu does have belts. The belt system is an important part of martial art and has been used for centuries to signify progress in skill level and mastery of techniques. In Kung Fu, practitioners typically earn different colored sashes or belts that denote their rank in the style. Generally, belts range from white for beginners to yellow/green for intermediate and brown/black as a sign of advanced proficiency.
What is the Highest Belt in Kung Fu?
The highest belt in Kung Fu is the 10th-degree black belt, also known as a Grandmaster. This level of mastery requires decades of dedicated practice and training to achieve. It symbolizes an individual’s expertise in martial arts and represents their commitment to mastering this ancient art form. The holder of this rank has achieved the highest possible level within their style or system, demonstrating great skill and knowledge.
History of Kung Fu
Kung fu, a martial art, is both a form of exercise with a spiritual dimension stemming from concentration and self-discipline and a primarily unarmed mode of personal combat often equated with karate or tae kwon do. The term kung fu can also signify careful preparation for the performance of any skillful endeavor without interference from the intellect or emotions.
As a martial art, kung fu can be traced to the Zhou dynasty (1111–255 BC) and even earlier. As an exercise, it was practiced by the Daoists in the 5th century BC. Its prescribed stances and actions are based on keen observations of human skeletal and muscular anatomy and physiology, and it employs great muscular coordination. The various movements in kung fu, most of which are imitations of the fighting styles of animals, are initiated from one of five basic foot positions: normal upright posture and the four stances called dragon, frog, horse riding, and snake. There are hundreds of styles of kung fu, and armed as well as unarmed techniques have been developed. In the latter half of the 20th century, a new genre of action films centered on kung fu techniques and philosophies emerged and helped to promote international interest in the art. See also martial arts.
Facts of Kung Fu
The Indian Buddhist monk Bodhidharma, supposed to have founded the Shaolin order, is said to have meditated for nine years in a cave close to his monastery. According to the myth, the monk slashed off his eyelids and flung them to the ground so he would never sleep again. When he threw his eyelids open, green tea started to grow there, and now it is used by Buddhist monks to help them concentrate during their daily meditation.
2. It is studied in a “Kwoon”
Dojos are schools that teach Aikido and other Japanese martial arts. Bow 45 degrees with your hands at your chest, right fist closed, and left open palm out. This is the proper way to enter a "kwoon". It is a symbol of harmony within yourself and the yin and yang.
3. Its practitioners wear different uniforms
The baggy gis and brightly colored belts are also influenced by Japanese tradition. There are no belt ranks in traditional Chinese Kung fu (though some Western teachers might use them as a teaching tool). The clothing for Chinese martial arts is skintight, down to the wrists and ankles.
4. The most elite Shaolin monk was a werewolf
Alright, so he was not a true werewolf. Later in the nineteenth century, a monk named Tai Jin lived. The unfortunate man was affected by hypertrichosis. The abnormal growth of excessive amounts of hair on affected regions of the body has earned this condition the nickname "Werewolf Syndrome." Perhaps knowing that he was, in fact, the best fighter in all of China, according to legend, would have boosted his confidence.
The Significance of Each Kung Fu Sash
Like in all belt rankings, the colors within the Kung Fu belt order are all supposed to have some meaning.
1. White Sash
The white slash signifies a new beginning. White slashes are a blank canvas that is ready to absorb the knowledge of the martial art.
2. Yellow Sash
The color yellow in Kung Fu is supposed to represent a ray of light. Students that receive their first promotion have received but a small light of what their potential could be.
3. Orange Sash
When a student reaches the orange sash level, they focus on the martial art alters. They go from being curious to being determined to be a proficient Kung Fu practitioner.
4. Gold Sash
This rank symbolizes the continuing determination of the student. At this rank, they are full of energy and open to learning more about the art of Kung Fu.
5. Green Sash
A green sash is like the student is a growing plant. Symbolizing the growth of the student as they continue developing their skills.
6. Blue Sash
At the blue sash level, a student transitions from just learning skills to training their mind and body. It is not enough to have the skills of a warrior, but you must have the calmness and demeanor of one.
7. Purple Sash
A purple slash symbolizes the power and ambition of a student. They’re growing more confident and becoming stronger in their technique like a young lion, but still need experience.
8. Brown Sash
When a student earns a brown slash, it signifies that they are becoming more grounded to the earth. They are becoming a more stable practitioner and understand the responsibilities that their rank holds.
9. Red Sash
A red sash symbolizes the energy and confidence of an experienced student. At this rank, a student is becoming one of the young leaders of their school. Not only are they honing their abilities, but they’re also passing their knowledge to less experienced students.
10. Black Sash
A black slash signifies that you have become an expert at all of the techniques within your style of Kung Fu. To become a teacher in Kung Fu, it is a prerequisite to hold the rank of black sash or higher.
The Grouping of Each Kung Fu Belt
The ten sashes of Kung Fu our split into three different groups between the eight sashes white and black. White and black sashes signify the beginning and end of the journey through the Kung Fu rankings.
Novice Levels
Yellow Sash
Orange Sash
Gold Sash
Intermediate Levels
Green Sash
Blue Sash
Purple Sash
Advanced Levels
Brown Sash
Red Sash
Top 3 Kung Fu Styles
Here are the top 3 kung fu styles:
1. Taijiquan
Taijiquan (/tie-jee-chwen/), i.e. tai chi, is a Taoist internal martial art. One account of the history of taijiquan credits its development to the Taoist immortal Chang San-Feng, who is said to have drawn the inspiration for the art by watching a fight between a snake and an aggressive eagle.
2. Chinese Qi Gong
"Qi gong" (literally 'breath exercise') is an invaluable component of traditional Chinese medicine that has its origin in ancient times. Its primary stimulus was the search for longevity, with the ultimate aim of immortality, which has so enchanted the Chinese mind for centuries. More on qi gong.
3. Shaolin Kung Fu
Shaolin Kung Fu is well-known in China and abroad. The original purpose of Shaolin shadowboxing was to keep health, treat illness, protect famous mountains, safeguard ancient temples, self-defense, and repel enemies. It boasts diverse patterns, plain forms, and rich internal and external kung fu.
Benefits of Practicing Kung Fu
Kung Fu training, or Wushu, has numerous health benefits which include overall improvement of the physical condition of the body as well as benefiting the emotional and mental states of those who practice it regularly. Below are some of the key benefits of Kung Fu training.
Physical Fitness – Kung Fu helps develop both strength and flexibility, unlike many other workouts that focus on either strength or flexibility. Repeated practice of kicks, punches, and pivots of the hips stretch the entire body and develop flexibility while increasing strength at the same time. Kung Fu training also involves special stretching techniques to increase flexibility in various muscle groups in the body. Health benefits may include lowering blood pressure, increasing blood circulation, strengthening the immune system, and improving sleep quality.
Better Concentration – Wushu comes from a tradition that requires intense focus. Students will learn how to perform exercises designed not only to improve their bodies but their minds at the same time.
Self-Defense Skills – Our Kung Fu classes aim to teach a child how to effectively protect themselves in the event of an attack, which does much more than just teach them how to punch and kick hard. Self-defense skills help keep our body and mind strong.
Sense of Community – Our team is like a big family. Through Kung Fu training as a group, we build trust and friendship among peers and with Masters.
Improved Confidence – Students attain a sense of confidence through improving mental and physical skills. We also teach students how to handle hostile situations.
Self-Expression – Wushu is an art that allows for the highest possibilities of self-expression since it combines grace and beauty with power and acrobatics.
Self-Discipline – Kung fu training helps young people learn how to deal with frustration and work toward a specific goal.
Stress Relief – Kung Fu training can ease tension, strengthen your body, and help blood circulation. Frequent practice may alleviate depression and anxiety and improve the mood.
How to Practice Martial Arts Safely
Suggestions include:
1. Watch a variety of classes first if you’re not sure which martial arts would be right for you. Most instructors will let you sit in on a class. This will give you a good idea of the demands of each discipline.
2. New or novice participants should be involved in an accredited martial arts school to learn appropriate skills and techniques.
3. Obey all the rules of your martial art.
4. Seek advice from your martial arts teacher if you think your techniques need improving.
5. Wear appropriate protective equipment like helmets and mouthguards.
6. Use your peripheral vision. If you have good hand-to-eye coordination, you are less likely to get hit. See your optometrist for information on how to improve your peripheral vision.
7. Try to emphasize fun rather than competition if your child is participating in martial arts.
8. Make sure your child understands that playing through pain is wrong.
Common Injuries in Martial Arts
Most injuries occur when the participant is struck with their opponent’s hand or foot. Common injuries include:
1. Skin damage - such as cuts and bruises.
2. Sprains - injury to ligaments (the tough bands of connective tissue that hold joints together). A common injury is plantar fasciitis, which is bruising or overstretching of the plantar fascia ligament that runs along the sole of the foot.
3. Strains - injury to muscle or tendon. For example, a muscle may tear from the rapid stop that occurs when you make contact with an opponent or object.
4. Knee injuries - caused by the bent-knee stance typical of most martial arts and the use of forceful kicks that can injure the joint if not done properly.
5. Dislocations and fractures - particularly of the hand, finger, foot, and toe.
6. Overuse injuries - any part of the body can be injured by sheer repetition of movement.
How to Find a Good Martial Arts School
This page focuses on how to find a good martial arts school. It was designed to help parents with young “future martial artists” and adult beginners. These questions should be answered to your satisfaction. Talk to instructors, students, and parents of the students attending the martial arts school in order to learn the pros & cons of a specific martial arts school.
1. Pick a school based on your martial arts “goals” – Do you want to concentrate on self-defense instruction? Do you want to learn more about a foreign culture? Do you want only a good cardio workout? You need to decide on your personal martial arts goals and find a school that best matches those goals.
2. Examine several schools – Check out several schools, rather than just going to the closest martial arts school. The teaching style of schools can vary significantly (from very regimented to overly loose).
3. Research the expertise and background of the instructor – Watch out for fake 8th-degree black belts. Those tend to be 80 years old, not 25!
4. Watch the instructors carefully – You want to find instructors that teach well and make the class enjoyable.
5. Ask questions – Talk to other students, parents & children at the school in order to find out their likes and dislikes about the school and instructors.
6. Visit different classes – After you have found an interesting school, visit different classes (versus just the basic introductory class). Visit the black belt classes, sparring classes, and even the belt tests. See if the school’s attitude changes as the children advance. You don’t want to find a school that changes in a negative way (i.e. becomes too harsh) as your child progresses to higher belts.
7. Focus on safety – Is there enough stretching? What happens if a child is hurt? What level of supervision is given during sparring classes?
8. Always get an introductory trial – See if your child enjoys martial arts training before committing to any long-term contract. Ask if the school has a short introductory trial offer that covers a few weeks and use that time to see if your child enjoys the school and is mature enough to handle the instruction. Also, be wary of a “cheaper” multi-year contract. Try the “more expensive” monthly programs until you feel certain that your child likes the martial arts school. Many kids do not last multiple years in martial arts as they have other commitments (i.e. school sports) or lose interest.
9. What is the “real” cost? – Make sure to find out the real cost of the class. Beyond the monthly/annual fee, what additional costs will you pay? Be aware that you are likely to pay for items such as uniforms, sparring gear, and belt tests.
10. Consider the location of the school – If it is too far away, you might find it hard to go frequently and thus quit or fall behind the other students.
Sources:
The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.
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