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At some point or another during your lifetime, there's a good chance you'll gain an interest in some type of self-defense. Maybe it will be one of the countless ancient Chinese martial arts or maybe something more common such as Korean tae kwon do or Japanese karate. Regardless of what martial arts style you choose, it's imperative to know a little bit about where it came from and what it was originally used for. Not all Chinese martial arts styles are the same and some are even more advanced and practical in ways. At least when it comes to modern self defense.
For those who're not very familiar with the vast array of ancient Chinese martial arts, let me give you a quick rundown of a few. Some of the more popular styles are tai chi chuan, which is considered a soft art that's focused more on heath, healing and control, than it is empty-hand combat. Then there is a Chinese martial arts style known as Shaolin Long Fist kung fu. This style is the epitome of what many Americans think ancient Chinese martial arts are all about. This style incorporates use of the entire body and utilizes a variety of high kicking, low kicking, punching, spinning, jumping, elbow strike, knee attack and open palm techniques. If you seek self-defense and a great workout, this is likely a Chinese martial art that's perfect for you. Also, there is an ancient Chinese martial arts form known as Wing Chun. Actually this fighting style is much younger than most Chinese martial arts; however, it does hold great popularity around the world. Wing Chun is a style that's focused more on practical self-defense techniques. It involves very rapid strikes and counter attacks, in addition to the principal that less is more. Many women enjoy this Chinese martial art because it does not focus on mere brute force/strength.
While the world of ancient Chinese martial arts can get a tad confusing, the key is to narrow down the various styles by establishing what you need it for. For example, if you want to begin practicing a Chinese style of self-defense simply for self-preservation purposed, then styles like Wing Chun and Tsing-Yi are ideal. Just be sure to acquire the assistance of a well-recommended sifu (teacher) before investing in a class. |
