Chinese martial arts began more than 2000 years ago, and was widely expanded upon throughout all regions of the country. One of the first institutionalized Chinese martial art was kung fu. Although Kung Fu is one of the oldest forms of traditional martial arts still around today, many still have yet to understand its mysterious origins. Many styles have been practiced for thousands of years in China, but the oldest is still thought to be the Shaolin style developed in a remote monastery called the Shaolin Temple.
The monks of the temple were actually quite peaceful, but needed to defend themselves from bandits and wild animals. The temple was under constant threat of attack from the wildlife and thieves attempting to steal resources. The monastery has actually been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout history due to raids from rebels, bandits and even the Qing government.
Kung fu techniques were developed over time using the movements of animals and nature. Monks would study the techniques and fighting styles of various predators (such as the tiger or praying mantis) and incorporate the moves into their daily regimen.
Weapons used in the martial art were developed from simple farm tools used in everyday life at the monastery. Due to the simplistic culture of the monastery, monks had to resort to using whatever items they had available to defend themselves. Many deadly techniques were developed and used for defense of the temple.
Along with training both hand and weapon combat techniques, monks also developed a form of internal training called Qi Gong. Some believe qi gong was first introduced to help monks endure long hours of zen meditation. Qi gong is the practice of using breathing, meditation and movements to increase internal energy flow (chi). Techniques developed in qi gong have allowed some practitioners to accomplish amazing bodily feats. Qi gong masters have been able to perform near impossible tasks such as breaking bricks with bare hands, kicking through stone and focusing chi to prevent spears from piercing their skin.
Kung fu is one of the oldest forms of martial arts practiced on earth. From it emerged a culture of discipline, spirituality and simplicity. Although much is known about this ancient art, it would take a lifetime to unlock all the mysteries of kung fu.
Other styles of Kung Fu include:
- Choy Lee Fut (蔡李佛; Càilǐfó)
- Fu Jow Pai (虎爪派) – Tiger Claw System
- Fut Gar (佛家)- Buddhist Palm
- Changquan(長拳) – Long Fist
- Longquan (龙拳) – Dragon Fist
- Meihuaquan (梅花拳) – Plum Blossom Fist
- Wing Chun (詠春 or 永春)
*and many others
Author: Jason Gandy
Published: April 30, 2013
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