Kung Fu collection
Shaolin Quan
少林拳 • Shaolin Fist
A major martial heritage built on strong stances, structured strikes and a constant link between form and application.
Shaolin Quan (少林拳), or "Shaolin boxing", is a traditional Chinese martial art associated with the ancient Shaolin monastery. Hundreds of Chinese martial arts claim a Shaolin heritage or a connection with one of the monasteries bearing that name.
According to legend, the Buddhist monk Bodhidharma taught Shaolin Kung Fu to the monks so they could defend themselves against animals and robbers around the monastery. Academic research has questioned this account since the eighteenth century.
More recent research highlights the importance of Vajrapani, a deity worshipped at the monastery at least from the eighth century and believed to grant strength and fighting skills. A stele erected in 1517 also identifies Vajrapani with the monks’ famous staff techniques. Shaolin combat is ancient and complex.
It gave rise to many systems, including 18 original styles, or Gates of Shaolin, practised with or without weapons and often inspired by animal movements. The tradition has spread widely and influenced many Chinese martial arts.