How to Learn Northern Shaolin

Northern Shaolin kung fu is the original style of "external" Asian martial arts. Northern Shaolin is famous for its long-range techniques such as jumping kicks, quick advances, wide stances and aggressive attacking techniques. These contrast the "internal" techniques of Southern Shaolin, which was intended for close-quarters combat. Northern Shaolin is considered somewhat dated by modern martial artists, however, many of its techniques provide a good foundation for the beginning martial artist. To master Northern Shaolin kung fu takes years. What follows is an introduction to some basic forms and techniques.

Things You'll Need

  • Workout clothing
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Instructions

  1. Mok Gar

    • 1

      Twist your body to the right and bending your left knee into a slight crouch while extending both your arms out into a twin-fist block. These movements are meant to parry and block a punch.

    • 2

      Sink down into a squared-off horse stance and extend your right arm out into a long fist strike.

    • 3

      Bring your left arm across your chest while bending at the elbow to form a short fist. The short elbow is intended to grab your opponent's arm and pull them into your forward hand which delivers a strike using the long fist to punch.

    Fut Gar

    • 4

      Turn your right foot inwards and lean forward slightly into a bow and arrow stance with your hands in a praying position over your head. This step is meant to block and trap a punch that is headed for your face.

    • 5

      Bring your praying hands down through the center of your body while sinking into a sitting or horse stance with your knees bent and your feet forward. This is meant to break an opponent's arm.

    • 6

      Resume the bow and arrow stance and stab your praying hands out horizontally in front of your face. This final strike should be launched towards your opponent's throat.

    Choi Gar

    • 7

      Stand in a toe-horse stance with your right foot planted and your left heel up off the ground.

    • 8

      Cross your right arm over your left into an x-block. This is meant to block a punch to the groin.

    • 9

      Step out into a square-horse stance and hit outwards with the backs of both of your fists. This move is intended to strike your opponent or opponents in the face.

    Li Gar

    • 10

      Launch a short, low sidekick off your front leg with a simultaneous hand stab from the corresponding arm. The kick is meant to block an opponent's kick.

    • 11

      Simultaneously stab your hand toward your opponent's eye.

    • 12

      Create a block by bringing your other arm forward to protect your ribs and arm pit.