Kung Fu
The martial art of Kung Fu is an exchange of culture, a type
of exercise, and also a way of defending yourself. The art is
very popular throughout the world, also being known as Gung Fu,
Wu Shu, and even Kuo Shu.
It shares some common traits with Karate, such as using both
hand and foot techniques. Kung Fu is one of the most popular
forms of martial arts - and also one of the oldest. Within Kung
Fu, there are several styles and variances, although the most
popular are those that have their roots in the well known
Shaolin Temple.
What most people arent aware of however, is the fact that
Kung Fu was practiced in China years before the first Shaolin
temple was even though of. A majority of martial arts
enthusiasts think of self defense as being the ultimate goal of
any martial art, including Kung Fu. While self defense is
involved with Kung Fu, the martial is so much more than just
fighting and defense - it is a true art, one that develops the
mind, body, and the soul.
Kung Fu doesnt teach students to overcome others, as it
teaches students to look within themselves and learn to have
complete and total control over their emotions. Kung Fu is an
art of harmony, that teaches to students to remain at peace and
avoid confrontations. If a situation threatens bodily harm to
the student, then he must rise to the occasion - becoming the
warrior and defending himself. Just like other types of martial
arts, Kung Fun teaches the balance that is crucial for
executing techniques and the proper movement.
The basic concept behind the balance is that same balance
that the Chinese believe keeps the balance between heaven and
earth. This concept of balance can be achieved by students if
they completely focus their thoughts and empty their minds free
from any type of distractions. Kung Fu is a martial art that
can be learned by anyone. It does take a strong desire, just
like any other martial art. It has a rich heritage, and a proud
legacy. Kung Fu is indeed a deadly martial art, if used in the
wrong ways.
There are variations of Kung Fu as well, which include the
infamous five animals - Tiger, Dragon, Eagle Claw, Crane, and
the Snake. Adapted by the animals in which they are named
after, the five animals style is some of the most impressive in
martial arts. Tiger Claw is by far the deadliest of the five
animals, teaching students to strike just like the dreaded
tiger. This style teaches the student power in his hands, so
that when he strikes, he tears the flesh.
Tiger Claw is very deadly, although it is very hard to find
instructors that teach this style now days. Unlike other
martial arts, there really are no competitions for Kung Fu.
Stylists can compete it other competitions, although there
really arent any that are for only Kung Fu. It is an ancient
martial art, that is to be used only in instances were there is
no other option than to fight back.
When provoked, the stylist should try everything he or she
can to avoid confrontations. Kung Fu aims to teach the lessons
of respect, fairness to others, harmony of the spirit, and
total self control no matter what. These characteristics, when
paired together, allow students to achieve success in a hard to
deal with society. Kung Fu is all about developing the students
overall well being - and following the straight path to mental
and physical toughness.
Editor
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Author: Peter
Charalambos
Granted Expert Author
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