Fitness

Kung fu training is one of the most complete ways of getting in shape.  We use a combination of traditional kung fu exercise systems along with more “Western” exercises such as push-ups, sit-ups, squats, or bodyweight exercises (including using your partner’s bodyweight!) to build strength, stamina, poise, and balance.

Kung fu covers all the bases: cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, strength, and mind/body connection.  Many students are rapidly able to feel the benefits of kung fu training through increased strength, improved posture and muscle-tone, energy, and overall physical as well as emotional well-being.

Kung fu training is serious physical training, so if you have any doubts or any medical conditions, please get a green light from your doctor or come speak to the instructor. 

Traditional Shaolin Training

Hung Kuen is a traditional Shaolin style, with a clear lineage back to the Shaolin temple and to some of Kung Fu's most celebrated practitioners (see "About Hung Kuen" for more information).

Traditional Shaolin training techniques set Hung Kuen apart from many other martial arts.  The techniques of Dragon, Tiger, Leopard, Snake, and Crane boxing are the fundamental building blocks of our training and constitute a unique exercise and boxing system. 

We also cover extended complex forms and applications for each animal, as well as other advanced Shaolin forms such as Tiger Crane, Hard Gold (Chin Kan Chuan), etc.   Complementing our training are further traditional techniques such as Tantui forms and applications, Sansou applications, and one-step sparring.  Our weapons training reflects traditional Shaolin Kung Fu weaponry as well (monkey staff, harlberd, broad sword, butterfly knives, spear, etc.)

Self-Defense

Our self-defense training is based on simple and highly effective moves covering a broad range of attacks.  We focus in particular on evasive or control techniques using joint locks or strikes to vital areas.  We also cover evasive techniques from specific holds and locks, as well as defense against basic weapons.  These techniques are particularly useful as they teach students to work around differences in size, reach, or weight, and effectively control bigger or stronger attackers.

We always teach new techniques using slow and simple movements to make sure no one ever gets injured.  More senior students start incorporating speed or combination techniques.

How About Some Sparring?

Combat training is a critical component of kung fu.  All students will first be taught light controlled sparring, with a focus on technique, stamina, and “feather touch” fighting. 

This is a crucial aspect of sparring, as it teaches students how to maximize their strengths and weaknesses before an opponent, how to make their movements as efficient and effective as possible, and how to conserve stamina during combat. 

Sparring is also a great cardiovascular workout – it’s hard enough hopping around a room on one’s feet,  without having to block and attack at the same time!

Protective gear and close instructor supervision are paramount even in light controlled sparring. 

Semi-contact or full-contact sparring are also available for more advanced students looking to let loose a bit more.