Kung-Fu Styles of the Chinese Kung-Fu Club
Shaolin
Kung-Fu is widely considered to be the Father of all Chinese Kung-Fu. It developed
at the five
major ancient temples in China as a result of the great teachings of Bodhidharma.
Throughout time,
many of the temples have been destroyed and only one still remains. Traditional
Shaolin Kung-Fu is of
Buddhist descent and many Buddhist beliefs are integrated into the study of
the art. Shaolin monks
worked within the temples while studying Kung-Fu. Most cared only to use their
Kung-Fu in self-defense
when it was necessary to defend their temple or their master. Over time, countless
separate styles and
subsystems have branched off of the Shaolin system and philosophy. Students
of Kung-Fu are known
for their good deeds, energetic public service, and inspiration as positive
role models. Northern Kung-Fu
is known for its fluid and powerful kicks, sweeping techniques, and lightning-fast
long-range movements.
It also has characteristics of long-range hand and foot methodology in addition
to an arsenal of
ground fighting techniques. Movements are graceful as well as extremely powerful.
The Praying Mantis style of Chinese Kung-Fu imitates the deadly attack and
defense techniques of the
aggressive mantis insect. The original Praying Mantis style was introduced
to the Shaolin Temple some
700 years ago. Four masters of Kung-Fu outside of Shaolin brought their mantis
style to the temple.
Each of these disciples claimed that their style was superior to the rest.
To settle the dispute, the disciples
descended into the forest to refine their distinct mantis style. Four distinct
mantis systems evolved and
were named after the unique markings on the back of the mantis upon which
each style was based.
The first had the appearance of seven dots and was subsequently called Shi
Shing (chi-ching) Mantis.
The second had markings of the plum flower blossom and was thereafter known
as
Plum Flower Mantis. The third system’s mantis had no markings on its
back and was therefore
known as Kwong Pan Mantis. The fourth mantis had the peculiar markings of
the Yin and Yang
symbol and was named Tai Tsoi Mantis. Tai Tsoi Mantis, also known as Tai Praying
Mantis is one
of the least known of the original four mantis styles. It is considered, however,
to be the most
effective of all ancient martial arts styles practiced in the world today.
Founded in 1980 by Sifu Arthur Berry, the Chinese Kung-Fu Club of DeKalb,
Illinois follows the
teachings of Grand Master Chin Ho Yin in its interpretation and application
of the ancient art of
Chinese Kung-Fu. The school focuses on the distinct styles of Northern Shaolin
and Tai Praying Mantis Kung-Fu.
Home