kung fu questions & answers

Questions & Answers

Click on the topic of choice for easier selection.

1. style & culture

2. fitness & health

3. fees & schedules

4. grading & competition

1.style & culture

What is KUNG FU & WUSHU

Kung fu (hard work) is the old term made famous in the west; the correct reference is wushu (martial arts). Today wushu is called the modern competition set routine; kung fu is called the old classical styles. Kung fu/wushu encompasses all styles - wushu, shaolin, taiji, yong chun, sanda, qi gong, philosophy, culture, lion & dragon dance.

Why KUNG FU & WUSHU
It is a unifying concept alongside the practices of intrinsic energy training (Qi Gong), pattern regime (Quan), philosophy, culture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The idea trains and strengthens the body alongside the mind for a deeper understanding of hidden potential and enhancement. Regime routines are distinguished between 2 categories.

1. External systems (i.e. Shaolin, Sanda, Yong Chun Quan) is suited for both the younger and mature student with lots of energy. Characteristics are many Quan, weaponry, physical exercise and defence applications i.e. Shaolin, Sanda, Yong Chun Quan.

2. Internal systems (i.e. Taiji Quan, Qi Gong, Meditation, Ba Gua & Hsing-I) suited more toward the mature, "next level” and or health restrained student. These systems are suited for those pursuing practitioning fields. Characteristics are reflective of its gentle slow intentional pattern practice; not to be perceived as pain free or inadequate from self defence; limited weaponry and lots of application practice.

Difference between Kung Fu - Classical Martial Arts (CMA) & Wushu - Sport Martial Arts (SMA).
CMA (Classical martial arts)– maintains the classical lineage based teachings; which allows for adaptation as mobility changes with age or injury. Allowing long term training regardless of age, ability and health disposition.
SMA(Sport martial art)- criteria is based on youth, flexibility and gymnastic ability; accolades are main criteria and has a limited life span and a high injury factor.

Choosing a Style
This is determined by the outcomes you wish to achieve. Physically demanding styles (External) are determined by speed and intensity of routine i.e. Shaolin and Sanda. Less physical styles (Internal) are meditative, intentional and focused toward internal & mental health benefits; i.e. Taiji and Qi Gong.

What are Quans, Styles, Forms, Regime, Patterns, Routine.
A singular word to describe a set of sequences. References are singular in idea; designed around natural and logical postural movement simulating offensive and defensive applications.

Complexity of the different styles

Each style has its unique features; but the results all achieve the same objective. As with clothing; you need to see which style is your fit; read up prior to trying out.

What is the best style
There is no “best” style; only a good practitioner or student. Any style can be effective; if the student is willing to train to achieve a high skill and expertise.

Weapon Training; how long before I learn.
Varies from style to style; i.e. Shaolin has the most weapons (20+) starting with basic long staff within 3 months. Sanda has no weapons. Taiji (long, broad sword, long staff & fan) and Yong Chun (long pole, wooden dummy and butterfly knives).

Why must we wear uniform and why is it black?
It assists the mind to understand discipline, presentation, care, humbleness and respect in a mild manner. Black does not get dirty so easily; culturally white is a symbol of death in most oriental cultures. The uniforms are ordered through the Centrex.

Philosophy classes?
The bases lie in how human and nature and its relationship; to assist healing and health. Integrated into all aspects of training at our Center. Daoist Qi Gong is the most comprehensive class for this undertaking.

Is it a religion, does one worship and bow to deities/ statues.
No; it’s a cultural thing; different culture different norms. Respect/acknowledgment is shown in this manner; by gestural bowing or lifting of clasped hands; is similar to greeting and saying “Hello” or shaking hands. Opening the mind to different cultures helps to eliminate bad perceptions. Research helps.

What is a tohdi or understudy?
It is not a cult; as per social perceptions. Tohdi are legacy holders. They undertake to train the systems in its purest forms and preserve them for generations to come. They undertake to become scholars and preservers of the classical arts. ... more on what is a tohdi

Why be a tohdi or understudy ?
Certain aspects of training is not taught to every member that trains under a shirfu or master of kung fu. This information is only taught to those with promise and humility wishing to preserve the systems; tohdi. ... more on what is a tohdi

Who are tohdi or understudy?
Most instructors are tohdi. There are different levels of tohdi; open door and closed door. Open door has a trial period for both teacher and student to see if the path is for them or not. Closed door is when the tohdi agrees to remain under the conditions required of a tohdi. ... more on what is a tohdi

Do you have to understand and know Chinese?
No, we teach usage related Chinese for martial arts. Martial arts is a doing activity and not theoretical; your ability to learn and persevere is sufficient.

Confusing Terms Why?
Simplistically; most styles originate from Guangdong or Canton region so Cantonese is a common reference language. Standardized Chinese referred to as Putonghua or Chinglish (Chinese written in alphabetical Romanization) emphasizing tones and the correct sounds intended E.g. Tai Chi – Taiji, Chi Kung – Qi Gong. The later; accommodates western comprehension and reading.

Self-defence or sport training.

Our classical system does not cater to the competitive nature of entertainment or sport. All aspects of defence is taken very seriously as it is very difficult to train for both self-defence and sport at the same time. The student needs to understand the choice they wish to undertake and train accordingly.

Self-defence, sparring or fighting skills.

When faced with a situation one needs to understand your own ability, weaknesses and strengths. If this is not challenged within a safe and controlled environment; then the martial artist will never be able to defend themselves adequately.

2.fitness & health
Must I be fit to start classes?
No; we start everyone as if a beginner; regardless of fitness level. Gym fit does not mean martial fit.

Can I lose weight?
Yes, you do lose weight; you also tone and define muscles. Focus is placed on inner muscle development; localised dynamics; resulting in more effective and stronger physique; prone to less injury and all round development. The results last longer even when away from practice.

Can I train if I’m injured or ill?
Yes; this is one of the few exercise regimes where you may train whether ill or injured. You will be advised according to injury/illness on how to proceed. The lack of mobility deteriorates muscle and slows down the recovery rate; therefore movement is a must in Chinese health.

Do I have to fight or spar?

No you are not forced to do either. You first need to understand all your abilities and weaknesses before undertaking to spar. We prepare you for sparring; by applying step-by-step analysis and logic to each situation.

Will I be able to defend myself soon ?

Once you are confident and the instructor sees you have a ability to apply techniques you will be allowed to progressively apply them with a partner; gradually moving to a stronger partner as you improve.

How long before I see results.
An average estimate is 3 to 6 months to use basic defensive techniques. Results vary according to the individuals’ tendency to learn, overcome phobia and allow for the body to memorize the routines taught.

Must I train extra?
Time spent in class is to feed you with new knowledge or revise that which was not understood. It is advisable to go home after each lesson and revise what was dealt with. This allows for progressive results in a shorter time.

How many in a class ?
We keep our classes to a maximum of 2o per class.

Ages of members in class ?
Our logic; kids are intimidated by both kids and adults alike. Our classes are mixed with kids and adults training in thee same class; this gets them to become aware of the weaknesses and strengths when facing different ages and attitudes. They are taught how to cope in each situation as it prevails.

Age restrictions ?
Starting age is 7yrs upward and is non restrictive; we do take younger kids if they can train without parental support. The only assessment will be the ability to pay attention, health and result outcomes.

Instruction and how it occurs.
Instruction is such that transparency is attained. While development cannot be without the instructor, self attainment of development must be experienced through the students own hard work. Independence is thus attained; whether the instructor is present or not. The student becomes responsible for their own development; so should they leave one day, the study can continue.

Your center has a reputation for hard training.
Yes; kung fu means hard work; without hard work you will not achieve results. This applies to everything in life; little effort little gain. After you have been training for a while; you will notice the change in all aspects of your body and mind. This we guarantee if you work hard with us.

3.fees & schedules

What do the fees cover.
One of two fee choices. Fee one - you to train all styles excluding Daoist Qi Gong. Fee two allows you to train all styles including Daoist Qi Gong. ....

Is it feasible for the whole family.
Yes, you may choose to train in the same style or choose a different style or days to train on. This is the discretion of the family.

Classes and set schedules, what happens if you miss a session?
Classes allow for progressive monitored training and are result driven. We have a system in place to catch up on missed sessions.

Do you do workshops and short seminars?
Yes, directly with Dr. Jeff Lan and senior instructors; view our website online for the latest schedule of upcoming events. ...more on workshops

How often must I train
Each style has a minimum of twice per week per style to achieve results. E.g. if doing 2 styles; 2 lessons of Shaolin and 2 lessons of Taiji.

Is twice a week enough for fitness etc.?
Yes & No - it will be sufficient to allow body memory to kick in; if you do not have the discipline to train on your own. Extra time must be invested by you to achieve results. Less time slow development; more time better results.

4.grading & competition

Do you have to fight in competitions?
We are not focused on competition as our long term goal of training is beyond competitive nature. We do entertain competitions for those that wish to enter.

Grading and Assessments
Grading is mandatory as they allow the instructor to get a good idea as to the students’ ability to obtain more information. Assessments are done to get a class overview and not based on individual progress.

What belts are there?
We do not have belts; we have sashes which define rank. With each grade you receive your sash and certificate; this normally occurs between the first 6 to 12 months depending on the style.