Often used to refer to the traditional Chinese fighting arts affiliated with the Shaolin Monastery, Shaolin kung fu includes a vast curriculum of martial arts techniques. Whether you are a new practitioner wanting to learn a comprehensive fighting system or a seasoned martial artist seeking to fine-tune your knowledge, the most traditional and reliable way to learn Shaolin kung fu is with the help of a live instructor.
Step 1
Search the yellow pages for Shaolin kung fu schools and academies under "Martial Arts." Call these schools and speak with the "sifu," or head instructor. Search for Shaolin kung fu schools in your area that may not be listed in the phone book by browsing the Internet.
Step 2
Decide on how many classes you wish to take each week--preferably at least two or three. Reallocate and schedule conflicts to other times throughout your day while scheduling at least 15 minutes each morning for practice.
Step 3
Begin your morning routine with basic leg, arm and spine stretches taught in class, followed by sets of push-ups, leg exercises and sit-ups. Go through your forms one by one, beginning with your most basic form (generally Short Form One). Progress through each of your forms, practicing Leopard, Tiger, Crane and other Shaolin animal forms as you are taught them.
Step 4
Recruit a sparring partner from class to test out your Shaolin kung fu techniques as you progress. While most traditional Shaolin classes will end each class with a small sparring session, scheduling extracurricular time for sparring will help you become familiar with applying the techniques you've learned in your forms. Establish offensive and defensive targets with your partner (as well as "no blow" zones) and put on your sparring gloves and footwear before sparring.
Step 5
Stick to your practice routine as faithfully as you can in order to integrate your Shaolin kung fu education into your daily schedule. Ask your sifu about any Shaolin tournaments happening in your area and attend one in order to compete with other martial artists in your belt-grade.
Tips and Warnings
- Attend classes and then practice the strikes, blocks, stances and forms that you learn in front of a mirror each morning for 15 minutes.
- Never aim for the head or groin when engaging in sparring practice. Emphasize controlling your attacks so that you strike as lightly as possible when engaging your partner.
Member Comments