Kung Fu

What is Kung Fu?

Kung Fu is one of the most renowned forms of martial arts globally, largely thanks to the surge of Kung Fu movies from the 1970s, led by its most famous practitioner, Bruce Lee. 

At its core, Kung Fu focuses on the application of body mechanics and energy dynamics. Its movements, drills, techniques and forms embody a profound understanding of body function, power generation and energy transformation. More than just a collection of effective combat techniques, Kung Fu is a way of fighting as well as a method for self-development, both mentally and physically. It promotes health and longevity, making it a practice that develops the mind, body and spirit.

With a history spanning over 1,400 years, Kung Fu originated with the Buddhist monks of the Shaolin Temple in China’s Henan province. As it spread throughout China, various styles of Kung Fu emerged over the centuries, though most retained common principles and concepts.

These styles blend hard/external elements (such as punches, blocks, kicks and physical strength) with soft/internal elements (such as mental focus, power generation, breathing, and relaxed movement) to create a balanced and effective martial arts system.

Kung Fu (Gōngfū, 功夫), which literally translates to “skill” or “hard work over time” is a broad term that encompasses all traditional Chinese martial arts. This reflects the lifelong dedication of practitioners in mastering their craft. The term Wushu (Wǔshù, 武术), meaning "martial technique," is also widely used, often referring to the Chinese government’s officially approved competition and performance-based version of martial arts.

White Crane Kung Fu

Fujian White Crane Kung Fu traces its roots back to the legendary martial artist Fang Qiniang during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) in the Fujian province of Southern China.


Fang Qiniang is credited with developing the foundational techniques of White Crane Kung Fu based on observing the movements of cranes in the wild. Inspired by the bird’s grace, agility, and ability to strike with precision, she synthesized these observations into a martial art that became known for its elegance and effectiveness in combat. The style focuses on evasive footwork, rapid strikes, and intricate grappling techniques.

Practitioners often utilize circular movements to deflect attacks and exploit openings in the opponent’s defense. The style’s philosophy emphasizes balance, both in physical technique and mental discipline.

Within Fujian White Crane Kung Fu, there is an incorporation of elements from the Tiger style, enhancing its versatility. Tiger style techniques emphasize strength, directness, and powerful strikes. This integration allows practitioners to blend the fluidity and precision of the crane with the raw power and aggression of the tiger, creating a comprehensive martial art system that caters to various combat situations.

Overall, Fujian White Crane Kung Fu stands out for its combination of soft and hard techniques, promoting not only physical prowess but also spiritual development and self- cultivation.

Wing Tsun Kung Fu

Following the Shaolin Monastery’s destruction, Buddhist Mistress Ng Mui developed WingTsun to emphasize technique over brute force. Her first disciple was Yim Wing Tsun.

Despite questions about its origins, WingTsun remains focused on technique overcoming strength.

Grandmaster Yip Man introduced WingTsun to Hong Kong from mainland China, and his student, Grandmaster Leung Ting, continued its spread globally.

In Ireland, the system is represented through the European Wing Tsun Organisation (EWTO), headed by Si-Gung Keith Kernspecht and taught by Dai-Sifu Rainer Tausend (7th HG) and Sifu Aidan Canavan (5th HG). Bruce Lee, a notable practitioner, based his Jeet Kune Do on WingTsun principles.

WingTsun emphasizes self-defense with close-range techniques, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Children can join specially designed Kids WingTsun programs. The high level programme curriculum includes:

The Biu-Tze (Thrusting Fingers) Form

The Chum-Kiu (Arm-Seeking) Form

The Siu-Nim-Tau (Little Idea) Form

The Muk-Yan-Chong (Wooden Dummy) Techniques

Bart-Cham-Dao (Eight Cutting Broadswords Techniques)

Chi-Sau Sections (Sticking Hands) & Lat-Sau (Sparring and Applications)

Luk-Dim-Boon-Kwun (Six & a Half Point Long Pole Techniques)

Lau Gar Kung Fu

Lau Gar Kung Fu is one of the traditional Chinese martial arts, rooted in the southern Shaolin styles. It is named after Master Lau Sam Ngan, also known as ”Three Eyed Lau” who was a monk and tiger hunter. 

Lau Gar, which means “Lau Family Fist” is part of the five major southern Chinese Kung Fu styles, alongside Hung Gar, Choy Gar, Li Gar, and Mok Gar​.

The system emphasizes practicality and effectiveness, with techniques that include powerful strikes, joint locks, and a combination of both long and short-range attacks. Training in Lau Gar often includes practicing forms (kata), sparring, and the use of traditional Chinese weapons​​.

A notable feature of Lau Gar is its incorporation of the “five animals” styles from Shaolin Kung Fu: Dragon, Tiger, Leopard, Snake, and Crane. Each animal style represents specific fighting principles and movements, such as the aggressive and direct techniques of the Tiger or the evasive and graceful movements of the Crane​​.

The style was brought to prominence in Ireland by Master Jeremy Yau, who learned it from his grandfather in Hong Kong. Master Yau regularly visits Ireland to conduct training seminars, sharing his extensive knowledge with practitioners. 

The system promotes discipline, strength, self-esteem, and teamwork, making it suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. It focuses on speed and agility, making it particularly appealing to those who prefer these attributes over raw power​.

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