Wushu / Kung Fu

Wushu/Shaolin/Nanquan

3511 NE 74th AVE, Portland OR 97213 (503)997-8691

WUSHU
Wushu is the Chinese word for martial arts. At the Chinese Kung Fu Association we have chosen to use the more familiar term Kung Fu. People more used to the word Kung Fu but Wushu is the more accurate word. Wushu includes all forms of of Chinese martial arts including Taijiquan, Wing Chun, Praying Mantis, Hung Gar, Ba Gua, Eagle Claw and so on. Most of these arts contain traditional weapons and these are also included.

MODERN WUSHU
Modern wushu is a dynamic performance and competition sport grounded in traditional Chinese martial arts. The cultural and combative tradition of wushu is retained as an integral element while the art and the sport of wushu is expressed physically and mentally. Wushu reigns as the most popular sport in China, and now is being considered for the Olympic games. In wushu, every movement must exhibit realistic combative application and aestheticism even thought its emphasis has shifted from combat to performance. Routines are performed solo, paired, or in groups, either barehanded or with traditional Chinese weaponry. In short, wushu is the most exciting martial arts to be seen, felt, and ultimately, practiced.

NANQUAN Southern Style or Tiger/Crane
Southern style & Wushu are taught at the Chinese Kung Fu Association. Speed, powerful kicks and short punches are used. Movements are compact and powerful. This style takes energy and discipline to learn and is very good for children and young adults. Weapons and empty hand forms are taught along with sparring and form applications in self defense.

In the southern style good balance and solid positions are essential, with sudden and powerful movements. Often attack and defense occur simultaneously - both hands are used simultaneously most of the time. Southern style is mainly lineal movements, but these are shorter and more compact than in the north.

WEAPONS
A variety of traditional oriental weapons are taught at the Chinese Kung Fu Association. The first weapon taught is the single broadsword. Also taught are the straight sword, spear, staff, whip chain, three section staff, sai, as well as many other traditional weapons should the student choose to learn them.

Lion Dance

What are the Benefits of Chinese Martial Arts:

Martial Arts require the concentrated coordination of the mind and body. They can increase energy, fitness, coordination, mental well-being, self-discipline and confidence. Chinese Martial Arts are practiced by people of all ages and abilities. Many exercises offer fitness and improved health but the Chinese Martial Arts teach self-defense and discipline as well. Students, after viewing a class or two and with consultation, many choose which of the styles is the best for them. Please feel free to attend one or more of our classes, observe and discuss with us what your needs and goals are.

SHAOLIN
Kung fu was introduced in the Shaolin Monastery in a Chinese provence around 495 AD. An Indian monk named Bodhidahrma Brought meditation and physical exercise to all the monk in an effort to better their health. Later the monks developed these practice into powerful self-defense systems. Some of these practices derived from farming and hunting techniques and the weapons for these are hybrid versions of farming tools. The movement and characteristics of real and mythical animals inspired other forms of Kung fu.

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