The Five categories of Kung Fu
Most people study martial arts for several reasons. For the sake of clarity, we have divided those reasons into five general categories.
General Health
“I want to get into shape and lose weight, and martial arts might be a fun way to do it.”
(Like this aspect of Kung Fu? Scroll down to find out which class is best for you.)
Sport
“I like to compete toe-to-toe against other people, but strictly for fun and excercise.”
(Like this aspect of Kung Fu? Scroll down to find out which class is best for you.)
Self-Defense
“I want to learn how I can help myself stay safe without learning all of that Bruce Lee stuff.”
(Like this aspect of Kung Fu? Scroll down to find out which class is best for you.)
Combative
“I want to learn to be able to fight and defend myself against anyone trying to hurt me.”
(Like this aspect of Kung Fu? Scroll down to find out which class is best for you.)
Performance
“I want to learn gymnastic-like set routines that I can use to compete against others.”
(Like this aspect of Kung Fu? Scroll down to find out which class is best for you.)
Kung Fu Foundations
The basic elements required for all Kung Fu study.
Classes you should take
Traditional Art & Application
Traditional Kung Fu forms, weapons forms, fighting sets and their applications related to combat. Performances of the Shaolin Monks and the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon are popular examples.
Classes you should take
Group Traditional Kung Fu (1 & 2), Group Traditional Kung Fu Weapons
Combative Oriented Kung Fu
Kung Fu for face-to-face fighting of opponents both trained in martial arts. Emphasizes economy of movement and effective technique in engaging an opponent whose intent is to cause harm.
Classes you should take
Group San Da, Special Interest Qin Na, Special Interest Duan Bing
Self-Defense Oriented Kung Fu
Kung Fu stripped down and streamlined to teach a students to efficiently and effectively defend themselves and escape from a mugging or street attack.
Classes you should take
Health & Application Oriented Kung Fu
Meditative or “Internal” Kung Fu styles that emphasize both physical and mental well-being through forms. Although not the focus, they can also be effective in combat fighting.
Classes you should take
Group Tai Chi, Special Interest Xing Yi, Special Interest Ba Gua
Form Competition & Performance
Forms that are as close to Olympic gymnastics as they are martial arts. Requires equal amounts of great strength, flexibility and endurance and is considered to be the most “flashy” aspect of Kung Fu.
Classes you should take
Sport Fighting Oriented Kung Fu
Although potentially very effective in real-world combat, sport Kung Fu is fast and free-form competition sparring where the winner is usually determined by points and potential injury is minimized by design.