Kung Fu - Martial Arts

By Tony Garrudo

Kung Fu is seen primarily as a form of self defense, but it can also be used as a form of exercise and is seen as a cultural artform. This martial art is common around the world, it can be called 'Kuo Shu', 'Wu Shu' or 'Gung Fu'. It is similar to Karate, in the way it applies foot and hand movements. Along with being a popular martial art, Kung Fu has been around for a very long time, it is amongst the oldest of all martial arts.

With origins that trace back to the widely known Shaolin Temple, a few variations and styles of Kung Fu, are more popular than the rest. Although there is much popularity in the Kung Fu styles rooted in the Shaolin Temple, individuals may not realize that many years prior to the construction of the first Shaolin Temple, people were practicing Kung Fu.

Self defense is usually seen as the primary role of all martial arts, especially Kung Fu. Self defense is indeed one role of Kung Fu and other martial arts, but what you may not know is Kung Fu should be used for a lot more than simply fighting technique. Kung Fu helps to focus the body, but along with it the mind and soul.

Kung Fu doesn't teach students to overcome others, as it teaches students to look within themselves and learn to have complete and total control over their emotions. Kung Fu is an art of harmony, that teaches to students to remain at peace and avoid confrontations. If a situation threatens bodily harm to the student, then he must rise to the occasion - becoming the warrior and defending himself.

In order to be able to master the appropriate movements and techniques, Martial arts students, including those practicing Kung Fu, learn to utilize the balance essential for such skills. Just as the Chinese ascribe to the belief that there is a balance required between heaven and earth, Kung Fu relies upon the same balance to execute the techniques of this martial art. It is believed that by totally freeing your mind of any outside diversions or interference, you will be able to attain this balance.

Kung Fu is a martial art that can be learned by anyone. It does take a strong desire, just like any other martial art. It has a rich heritage, and a proud legacy. Kung Fu is indeed a deadly martial art, if used in the wrong ways. There are variations of Kung Fu as well, which include the infamous five animals - Tiger, Dragon, Eagle Claw, Crane, and the Snake. - 31497

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