Like many martial arts, kung fu is a comprehensive fighting system that includes a large number of offensive and defensive maneuvers designed for surviving a combat situation. Developed throughout China and practiced internationally today, kung fu includes a variety of martial techniques and styles including Hun Gar, Northern long fist, Chinese boxing and the various five animal styles utilized by descendents of the Shaolin Monastery. Students in kung fu deepen their knowledge of the various unarmed and weapons techniques as they progress in "sash" grades, eventually reaching the highest grade of black sash after years of dedication and study.
Step 1
Designate an area for training and practicing your kung fu techniques. Place a large mirror on one end of the room and ensure that you can clearly see your entire body in the reflection. If necessary, place a laptop on a desk or raised surface where you can see the screen while training.
Step 2
Ask members of your local martial arts community which kung fu school or instructor they recommend and attend at least one class in each school that interests you. Decide on which kung fu instructor, or "sifu," you wish to learn from and attend classes two to four times each week.
Step 3
Supplement your training at home with books and videos that display different fighting techniques of kung fu. Play the videos on your laptop in your training area and repeat each punch, kick, stance, block or strike exactly as shown by the video instructor. Pause and rewind the video as needed and integrate the practice alongside your weekly kung fu class attendance.
Step 4
Schedule a daily training regimen wherein you practice each of your techniques and forms, or combat sequences, for 15 to 90 minutes each day. Begin your training session with basic stretching and strengthening exercises such as the head-to-knee calves stretch followed by push-ups and sit-ups. Perform each of your kung fu techniques and maneuvers before the mirror and correct your posture, symmetry and footing as needed until you successfully repeat the form exactly each time.
Step 5
Consult your sifu and ask him to test your current knowledge of the strikes, blocks, stances and techniques learned in class. Test for your next sash grade and continue your diligent training schedule as you advance to each rank, mastering kung fu techniques as you progress.
Tips and Warnings
- While books and instructional videos can be very helpful for supplementing your martial arts practice, nothing can replace the presence of a live instructor. Always consult your sifu if you have any questions about the validity of a source or video instructor.
- Consult your doctor, chiropractor or personal physician before undergoing any live combat or training regimen that you are unsure about. Be intuitive and listen to your body as you attend classes and make sure that you are not stretching too deeply or punching too hard at any point during your beginner practice. Consult your doctor if you experience any sharp, shooting pains during practice, or other physical discomfort.
Things You'll Need
- Large mirror
- Laptop or TV with VCR (optional)
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