History of Kung Fu

If you’re thinking about signing up for a new kung fu class or are already taking classes and would like to know more about the specifics behind this wonderful form of martial arts, then you will enjoy learning a few things about its history. The history of kung fu is an incredibly rich and colorful one, dating back more than 4,000 years ago!

Origins of this Chinese form of martial arts trace back to the Xia Dynasty. This form of martial arts shows that the foundation was built upon the principles of self-defense. In addition to self-defense, kung fu’s origin was also influenced by the need for innovative hunting practices as well as improved military training. Hand-to-hand combat made up a significant portion of a Chinese soldier’s military training.

From there, kung fu’s applications began to rapidly expand. This expansion helped create different sects and schools of varying kung fu teachings, arising from the influences of various Chinese families. Each family and school imparted their own philosophies and beliefs upon this martial art. This is when kung fu started to see infusions of improving one’s health and even the overall enhancement of their self, including mental and spiritual capacity. Interestingly, the influences of kung fu spread beyond its influence on one’s individual sphere and worked its way into the civilian culture at large.

Apparently, the Yellow Emperor (circa 2698 BCE) was responsible for the first organized fighting structures. He was a Chinese general who combined influences from several realms, such as medicine, astrology and the martial arts to help develop this new fighting system. But the introduction of kung fu is actually seen through the influence of the great Confucius. In 509 BCE, it was Confucius who inspired Duke Ding of Lu to encourage a greater amount of study to be dedicated to the literary arts. This is when kung fu really started to diversify. This is also one of the most significant influences as to how kung fu spread into the community; beyond the military.

Although the styles of kung fu that are taught in classes around the world today stay true to their roots for the most part, they still evidence many significant outside influences. This is especially apparent when you consider just how many different types of classes there are that you can are still considered faithful to kung fu. So, the next time you walk out onto the mat, you’ll know there are thousands of years behind the techniques you are practicing!