Kung Fu Up Close

The martial art of Kung Fu is an exchange of culture,concept behind the balance is that same balance that
a type of exercise, and also a way of defendingthe Chinese believe keeps the balance between
yourself. The art is very popular throughout theheaven and earth. This concept of balance can be
world, also being known as Gung Fu, Wu Shu, andachieved by students if they completely focus their
even Kuo Shu. It shares some common traits withthoughts and empty their minds free from any type
Karate, such as using both hand and foot techniques.of distractions.
Kung Fu is one of the most popular forms of martialKung Fu is a martial art that can be learned by
arts - and also one of the oldest.anyone. It does take a strong desire, just like any
Within Kung Fu, there are several styles andother martial art. It has a rich heritage, and a proud
variances, although the most popular are those thatlegacy. Kung Fu is indeed a deadly martial art, if used
have their roots in the well known Shaolin Temple.in the wrong ways. There are variations of Kung Fu
What most people are not aware of however, is theas well, which include the infamous five animals -
fact that Kung Fu was practiced in China yearsTiger, Dragon, Eagle Claw, Crane, and the Snake.
before the first Shaolin temple was even though of.Adapted by the animals in which they are named
A majority of martial arts enthusiasts think of selfafter, the five animals style is some of the most
defense as being the ultimate goal of any martial art.impressive in martial arts. Tiger Claw is by far the
While self defense is involved the martial is so muchdeadliest of the five animals, teaching students to
more than just fighting and defense - it is a true art,strike just like the dreaded tiger. This style teaches
one that develops the mind, body, and the soul.the student power in his hands, so that when he
Kung Fu doesnt teach students to overcome others,strikes, he tears the flesh. Tiger Claw is very deadly,
as it teaches students to look within themselves andalthough it is very hard to find instructors that teach
learn to have complete and total control over theirthis style now days.
emotions. Is is an art of harmony, that teaches toUnlike other martial arts, there really are no
students to remain at peace and avoidcompetitions for Kung Fu. Stylists can compete it
confrontations. If a situation threatens bodily harm toother competitions, although there really are not any
the student, then he must rise to the occasion -that are for only Kung Fu. It is an ancient martial art,
becoming the warrior and defending himself.that is to be used only in instances were there is no
Just like other types of martial arts, Kung Funother option than to fight back. When provoked, the
teaches the balance that is crucial for executingstylist should try everything he or she can to avoid
techniques and the proper movement. The basicconfrontations.