Kung Fu

The CAMC's Kung Fu programme (功夫成人) is mainly rooted in Master Jung's path and his lifelong search for the essence of traditional Kung Fu. This required choices, as schools and lineages are countless. These choices come from chance, encounters and a desire to grasp the deeper principles of Kung Fu.

Tao Lu are not necessarily the best way to master a Kung Fu style, and some masters even recommend setting them aside in order to practise fully. At the beginning, however, they are a practical way to acquire basic movements and principles and develop the broad Kung Fu culture needed to choose a specialised style.

Tao Lu from different styles are taught over several years, according to their difficulty. Each develops specific skills: martial techniques, footwork and a practitioner's mindset. They provide a programme, or rather a framework, to which strengthening exercises (Gong Fa), applications and combat practice can be added.

Beginners first learn the basic Kung Fu stances, which build strength and flexibility. Bu Quan is common to almost every Kung Fu school and develops linked stances. Chang Quan, a synthesis of northern styles, is ideal for stretching the body fully.

Northern styles are known for their expansive movements, hence the expression long boxing. The 18 Lohan palms, an ancient Shaolin style, deepen this practice and offer a first entry into Chinese martial tradition.

Training continues by diversifying footwork, a fundamental part of combat. Mi Zong Quan, also known as the labyrinth style, includes frequent changes of direction and rapid alternation between kicks and hand techniques. The fast movements of Tang Lang Quan generate speed, while Qixing Tang Lang Quan coordinates short, quick steps and monkey footwork with continuous attacks.

Once the foundations have been acquired, practitioners work more deeply on these styles or approach more internal styles such as Ba Ji Quan, Xin Yi Quan, Yin Yi Liu He Quan, Liu He Tang Lang, Ba Gua Zhang and Chen Shi Tai Ji Quan.

Other, less internal Kung Fu styles have also shaped Chinese tradition and deserve attention, such as Golden Eagle (Jin Ying Quan), Snake (She Quan), Monkey (Hou Quan) and Drunken style (Zui Quan).

Advanced practitioners specialise for at least two years before taking the black belt examination.