Before Taekwondo I studied offically in Shaolin Kempo, and unofficially in Dragon Kungfu. The effects of these styles have had on my life are extremely important to understand as they have toh left a impact on my life. When I practice on my own these styles are still seen in my practice sessions.
Shaolin Kempo
China
The original Shaolin temple was built in the 4th century AD martial arts training started around A.D. 550. This style was created by an Indian monk named To Mo in order to get the monks in better physical condition. It was also To Mo’s go goal to create a cast of warrior monks who would be able to defend themselves as well as their temple from people who wished to do them harm. Although he died before this truly came into effect he left a lasting impression on every style of Martial arts today. It is often believed from those who study this art that Shaolin is the foundation on which all martial arts are built. Those who fallow this art do not just study the self defense aspect of the art, mental and spiritual development is also as important as the self defense side of the art. To be a warrior monk one had to show his understanding in spiritual matters, to be able to answer questions concerning china's history, being able to take about events, leaders, dynasties and what not. The final test they had to complete was the ordeal at Logan hall. They went through many chambers of a temple. In some places they had to defend themselves ageist other warrior monks. In one chamber they had to go through 112 wooden dummies that had knives, spears, clubs, or swords. These dummies where rigged to attack when trip wires where triggered. Many of monks sustained great injuries or even death in this chamber. After they successfully made it through there they had to move a 500lb urn that was full of burning coals. (They had to rotate it not carry it) on the sides of this urn there where 2 brands either it was 2 dragons or a dragon and a tiger, there differing views of this. When the urn was moved the monks forearms where branded with these signs (1 on each side) a door would open or latch would be relieved and they would be done with their test. This part of the art is extremely power. The strikes very from hard to soft targets, or vital points of the body. It really is a good style to study and one that offers a great all around training.
Tiger
- strong and powerful.
- no blocking or defense they want to destroy what ever is in front of them
- They will continue to attack until either they are there pray are dead
Snake
- fast, flexible,
- what they lack in power they make up for in speed, they choice quick strikes and important targets.
- prefers moving over blocking then a fast counter strike
- The snake is often referred to as the inner chi
Crane
- Graceful and beautiful.
- They are balanced at all times and seldom attack; they are focus more on defense.
Leopard
- bravery and martial ferocity at its key qualities.
- strong waist and lower extremities
- power and speed and swift strikes
Dragon
- represents the cultivation of the spirit.
- Powerful, graceful in flexible -
- They focus on both rising and falling attacks as well circular movements.
Daily Routine of the Warrior Monks.
1. Energy collection or chi development
2. Meditation
3. Philosophy
4. Yoga
5. Nutrition, consisting of proper diet, healing arts and verbalism
6. The arts of punching, kicking and self defense combinations
7. push-pull arts
8. Jumping patterns permitting escape from danger with no physical contact
This is a routine that anyone who wishes to become a Martial Artist should keep in mind. On top of their 8 Hours of Physical Training, they also spend 8 hours a day working in the temple. Of course there are a few things that you can change such as jumping patterns but use this as your Basic Outline.
Dragon Kung Fu
A monk named Wu Mui one of the 5 surviving Shaolin Monks has been credited with this style.
The foundation of Dragon Kung Fu is based on the mythical Chinese Dragon.(one of the 5 major animal styles of Shaolin Martial Arts) Unlike many of the other styles such as the tiger, the snake, the crane or the leopard, the dragon styles was taught more through word of mouth of the master, then written down. The oral tradition of this style makes its roots, original principles, and linage a well kept secret and mystery that will ever be revealed.
The Dragon style much like American Kempo is a strong self defense style. Its teachings are both passive and aggressive at the same time; the dragon is as deadly as he is patient. He can stay close and protect his home or he can offer fast powerful blows that can cripple of kill his aggressor. Above all else the dragon focuses on control, not only within his environment but more importantly himself. A great thing to note about the dragon style is in some ways it is no true style. The dragon incorporates the other animal styles and uses what is effective for the moment. The dragon has many secrets and he keeps his own council. Although the dragon is strong in all areas of the body the wrist is carefully trained. Strikes that involved a claw like action at soft spots like the neck the eye and the groin are often key strikes to the dragon. The strikes are made with the thumb, index and middle finger. In the Shaolin Kung Fu thread there is some more information about the dragon and the other major animals of the Shaolin style..
Rules & Principles
1. Focus to learn and condition the body.
2. One must not have any act of laziness.
3. Be righteous and uphold your honor.
4. One must not have any act of hypocrisy.
5. Respect your parents, honor your teacher.
6. One must not have any act of defiance.
7. Treat others with honesty; treat your friends with loyalty.
8. One must not have any act of arrogance.