© Csaba Fikker
There is a reason why we are attracted to the type of martial arts that we practice. No one martial can top them all, but there are some that have progressed to a level that encompasses many concepts of self defense that have been tried and true. Adam Hsu, a kung fu instructor for over 25 years, put together a good collection of articles in a book call the sword polishers record, which I will mention in blog posts to come. Here he listed some basic principles about what makes kung fu, Kung Fu. Since then I’ve used it as a model in my training and to compare the kung fu way to other methods. Now I am not rigid and don’t think these are the best and “only” ways, I’m much more open minded than that. Instead I use do it and hope to understand the thinking behind why some of these great masters did what they did.
Kung Fu moves employ two parts – an offense and a defense
A block is not only a block but also a kick. A step may not only be a method of advancement but also a method of sweeping and blocking. This idea gave new meaning to my forms and allowed me to really see the creativity in this martial art.
Kung Fu does not waste time or move back to create space
Being able to strike from any location is a vital skill, and was heavily emphasized by Bruce Lee. Any motions that cause you to pull back and reapply a strike would not come from true kung fu training. It also goes against a principle I have called “moving it forward”, meaning to keep the pressure on your opponent while constantly advancing.
It’s all about technique
This is a concept I’ve learned through learning Chinese Martial Arts, and kung fu is really about technique. In the movies, you may hear of reference to martial artists being complemented for their techniques. This is because kung fu is technical fighting. It has been through many era’s, and techniques change all the time depending on who you are facing. This is why I believe that new age kung fu has a place in the MMA world because when it comes down to it, it is all about the fighter and their techniques.
This is a short list and is just written to give you an idea of some of the basic uses of kung fu. To learn more I suggest studying with a good teacher and learning the similarities and differences between different styles.
You can read about Adam Hsu at http://www.adamhsu.com.
More From Acupuncture and Holistic MMA
- Bruce Lee on Tai Chi – Insights from the Martial Artist | Acupuncture Holistic MMA
- Multiple Sclerosis – What is it and Can Acupuncture Help | Acupuncture Holistic MMA
- Using Kung Fu in MMA: A Nice Mixed Martial Arts Example | Acupuncture Holistic MMA
Acupuncture and Holistic MMA Recommends
- George Zimmerman is not remorseful for shooting and killing 17-year-old Trayvon Martin (verenetta)
- 10 Environmentally Phone Apps that are easy to use (U.S. Green Technology)
Hi my name is Carlo and I'm a licensed acupuncturist in California with over 10 years experience in exercise and health. My martial arts background consists of seven years training in various martial art styles, and I look forward everyday to helping people discover the healing powers within themselves and around them.
Recent Comments