As with many forms of martial arts, the origins can be attributed for an early need for self-defense, military needs as well as hunting. Of course, martial arts became an integrated part of the Chinese culture over time and as such, the term “Kung Fu” became a universal name for Chinese martial arts all together. As a result, the origins of Kung Fu can be considered the origins of Chinese martial arts themselves.

There are a number of different forms of chi sao, but they all share some common characteristics.

They are always two person exercises. The arms always start in contact at striking range They aim to the develop sensitivity to the opponents movements and energy, use of correct position, and ability to find a gap in an opponents defences, and the appropriate use of trapping skills.

The six stages of Chi Sau training are:

Dan Chi Sao (single sticking hands)
Poon Sao (double sticking hands)
Jeung Sao (changing hands)
Dok Sao (analytical hands)
Gor Sao (free applications)

For many people, especially those who are not familiar with martial arts, the question often arises on what the difference between karate and kung fu is. Upon watching somebody doing martial arts, the untrained eye will find it hard to tell whether that person is doing karate or kung fu. Even those who are beginning martial arts may sometimes be confused about the different styles until further exposure to them will reveal just how different they really are.

The Term:

Historically, the term “Kung Fu” is not really featured in any ancient texts. It was first coined by a Frenchman named Jean Joseph Marie Amiot, a missionary who lived in the 18th Century, in reference to Chinese martial arts. Kung Fu is also called Gongfu, Wushu, or Kuoshu, and originally denotes expertise in any skill, and not exclusive to martial arts.

Brief History:

It is necessary for a kung fu master to do swift and fast movement. Kung fu masters need to be agile, flexible and alert. This need is reflected in the choice of the uniforms. A kung fu uniform is designed to help swift movements. The cloth does not come in between moving hands or legs. The uniform provides maximum comfort to the wearer. The uniforms are available for adults as well as for children.

Since kung fu also reflects a philosophy of life, the kung fu uniforms are simple in nature. They are not very stylized or fashionable, but are made for real use.

Since kung fu is more than 1,000 years old, there are hundreds of styles of kung fu. Old styles are mixed to create new styles. Then there are many families of styles. Kung fu styles also change from region to region, as kung fu reflects a way of living.

The kung fu styles can be divided into soft and hard styles. Soft styles mean diverting momentum to unbalance an opponent. They are used to bring opponents into striking range. These styles use less physical force and more internal energy and skills. Hard styles direct the energy outward. These are used to strike with the force.

The weapons used by kung fu masters are used to fight at a distance as well as at close range. Eighteen Arms is the term used to describe kung fu weaponry. Saber, spear, sword, halberd, axe, battle axe, hook, fork, whip, mace, hammer, talon, trident-halberd, cudgel, long-handled spear, short cudgel, stick and meteor hammer are the eighteen weapons. Some of these weapons are overt, whereas others are covert in nature. Some of them can be used with soft styles, while others can be used in the hard styles. The usage of the Eighteen Arms made kung fu more proficient.

What is the best way to select a Kung Fu school?

First, visit the Kung Fu school and, if at all possible, take a few lessons. Observe the students and ask yourself: Are these the types of people I would like to be associated with? Remember that the Kung Fu school is represented by its students.