Kung Fu (功夫).  is a form of exercise, an exchange of culture and a means of self-defense. It is also known as Gōng Fù , Wŭ Shù or Gu— Shù. 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 Art. Idiomatically, Kung Fu means "ability and power". The words Wŭ Shù 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 used for a more contemporary, performance oriented system of movements the practice of which is often sponsored by the Chinese government. There are many systems of Kung Fu, the most popular of which have their origins in the Shaolin Temple . However, Kung Fu existed in China long before the first Temple was built.



Many consider self-defense as 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 men. Rather we must look into ourselves and learn to control our thoughts and emotions. We should always be peaceful and avoid combat. However, if facing a situation that threatens severe bodily harm or injury, the soul should become the warrior and we must learn to defend ourselves. Kung Fu, as do many Martial Arts, teaches balance which is the key to movement and to the execution of technique. The concept of “balance” is thought of as keeping balance between Heaven and Earth. We can only achieve this concept of balance if we learn to focus our thoughts, concentrate and empty our minds of distraction.




Kung Fu is for any willing student. All that is necessary is the enthusiasm and desire to work diligently and accept discipline. One must have or be ready to develop the physical, psychological and ethical characteristics to allow for growth in the art. Not every student will advance at the same rate. Each of us has a different background and possesses different physical and intellectual capabilities. However, each student should try to the best of his or her ability and through that effort, will progress and continue to learn.




Kung Fu teaches us the lessons of respect, harmony, fairness and self-reliance. These characteristics are absolutely necessary for us to achieve success in a society that is continuously becoming tougher and more difficult to be in. Kung Fu provides a positive path for the development of our mental and physical selves.




Traditional arts lead unto a path or way that allows people, at the cost of a long and arduous apprenticeship, to deepen their experience of reality and themselves... The apprentice discovers the laws that govern the subtle forces with which life is woven, and he/she learns that the quality of one's work depends on whether one can master oneself... One's outer work becomes the prop of an inner metamorphosis.

"Martial Arts Teaching Tales of Power and Paradox" by Pascal Fauliot


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