United Studios of Self Defense

What is Shaolin Kung-Fu?

Shaolin Kung-Fu is a form of Chinese martial arts or technical skill created more than 1,000 years ago by the sacred order of the Shaolin Temple. In ancient times, families were forced to defend their village from outside invaders. Lacking sufficient weapons, they developed Shaolin King-Fu as a means of protecting their families and possessions. The training was passed down from generations to generations, from father to son, to the present time. Over this time, these arts have been codified into set forms and styles. More than a tool for self-defense, Shaolin Kung-Fu is an exercise in physical discipline and control.

These different exercises train every part of the body and will enhance and optimize reflexes, flexibility, speed, and power. Without mastering the fundamentals of body movement one cannot achieve proficiency in the martial arts.

The kungfu monks of the Shaolin Temple are not only masters of the martial arts, but deadly adversaries with weapons as we/I. The monks of the Songshan Shaolin Monastery display their proficiency in a number of weapons, both basic and exotic.

The name of the Shaolin Monastery has achieved legendary status and fame in Asia as being the ancient center where hundreds of different marital arts systems were developed and culminated. These Shaolin teachings are a 1,500-year-old legacy that is part of the rich heritage and tradition of China. Shaolin is now also well-known among many Western people through exposure in the media. Today, Shaolin martial arts (better known as Shaolin Kungfu) is widely practiced by many enthusiasts throughout the world.

Shaolin Kung-Fu epitomizes the meditative principles of the Ch' an Buddhism wherein the mind, spirit and body become one. Today Shaolin Kung-Fu is recognized as a relaxing technique for developing body tone, and mental control. It also is a useful, efficient and highly effective weapon in the art of absolute self-protection.

Why Should You Learn Shaolin Kung-Fu?

Everyone has their own individual reasons for training in the martial arts. Many people study Shaolin Kung-Fu as a form of exercise to develop agility, coordination & a strong physique. Others study Shaolin Kung-Fu to transform the body & spirit into a forceful weapon. Whatever the reason, Shaolin Kung-Fu is the answer. It is for all ages, men and women, boys and girls. Just one-half hour of exercise each-day creates the mental and physical energy to carry you throughout the day.

If the unexpected should occur and you are attacked, you have the ancient skills to protect yourself instantly & completely. Shaolin Kung-Fu may save your life someday.

1. Stretching and Repetitive Exercises

A series of exercises to limber and strengthen the muscles, joints, limbs and cardiovascular system. These exercises performed in sequence, will dramatically increase the speed and strength of student. When a persons muscles and joints are relaxed, their reaction time decreases. It requires less energy and time to move the body into another position. When your muscles are relaxed you flex directly to your next position rather than to flex from one position to another. To change direction you must relax one muscle before you can move another muscle.

2. Set Practice

A series of movements designed to increase eye, hand and motor coordination for the entire body. These movements are short simple offensive and defensive movements, when practiced will increase flexibility, strength and concentration. Repetitive practice of these drills will increase a students focus and make your reactions steady.

3. Traditional Form Practice

A Traditional Form is a series of sets combined and practiced in a certain order to improve physical stamina and mental concentration. These combined sets that make up the Traditional Forms such as the Shaolin Five Animal form. These forms are the way to better physical and spiritual health by cleansing the body and mind with a significant reduction of stress. Many famous forms such as the Tiger Crane or The Lo Hon (Budda) form have been passed down through the centuries by traditional masters of Shaolin Kung-Fu.

4. Weapons

A more advanced training using tools such as the STAFF, BROAD SWORD, SPEAR and many other weapons to further develop coordination and confidence. Mastering these weapons will allow students to perform in display exhibitions and promote his or her particular art with grace and style rather then intimidation and power.