Types of Wushu

The word “wushu” means “martial arts” in Mandarin, and the related term “kung fu” means “skill” or "ability.” Although the martial arts have established deep roots in Chinese culture, the Academy of Wushu states that the era of wushu's precise beginnings has never been confirmed. Throughout the centuries, however, different styles of wushu kung fu have evolved that combine physical dexterity and fighting skills with artistic interpretation and mental discipline.

  1. Wing Chun

    • According to the Stanford University Wing Chun Student Association, "Wing Chun" translates as "glorifying springtime." The style is noted for its productive movements, with each technique designed to simultaneously defend against an attack and counterstrike the opponent with no wasted effort. Rapid hand strikes and short kicks to the lower body and legs are suitable for close-range fighting. Wing Chun's "biu jee" ("shooting fingers") form focuses on the practitioner's ability to produce energy in his limbs.

    Praying Mantis

    • True to its name, the "Praying Mantis" style mimics the movements of the insect. Quick, snapping open-handed strikes and thrusting kicks are used to startle the attacker and hold him at a distance. The "Praying Mantis" practitioner is light on his feet and engages in leaping kicks delivered from long range. Punches are fully extended, showing “long-arm” technique, with power added by snapping the elbows.

    White Crane

    • The "White Crane" style was developed nearly three centuries ago by Fung Chi-Niang, a woman whose father had trained at the Shaolin Temple. Shifu ("master") Lorne Bernard of the Academie Shaolin White Crane Kung Fu, notes that Fung Chi-Niang was small in stature, and as such, her style was based on evasion and counterstriking. A "White Crane" practitioner has agile footwork to sidestep powerful attacks and remain close enough to counterstrike. She uses tightened fingers and short punches to attack the most vulnerable parts of the opponent's body, such as the eyes, nose, throat, groin and knees.