Chinese KungFu and Martial Arts Lesson
Principal Xilin
CLASS
OVERVIEW:
What is Wushu?
The term Wushu (literally, "martial arts") encompasses a number of fighting systems rooted deeply in Chinese history. It is a reflection of Chinese culture and philosophy and is at once a comprehensive system of self-defense, a sport, an art, and, most importantly, a way of self-improvement. In the western world, Bruce Lee and his movies popularized the name “Kung Fu” but regardless of the name, the aim of Chinese martial arts worldwide is the same: practitioners learn effective fighting skills while promoting their physical and mental health, all the while making friends, having fun, pursuing their passions, and improving themselves.
Benefits of Wushu
Physical well being:
Bodily strength, flexibility, and speed all increase through Wushu practice. Stances build leg, abdominal and lower back strength and the necessity of holding positions while training builds strong stabilizing muscles. Weapons practice gives many of the same benefits of eight-training
exercises, conditioning the muscles and strengthens the joints of the upper body. Wushu practitioners who practice his/her art regularly with no other supplemental exercise program can easily develop a lean, strong, healthy physique.
Mental well being:
Wushu practice requires the mind as well as body. Consistent practice improves nervous system function by alternating between quick, energetic movements and slow relaxed
movement, developing heightened proprioception, reflexes, and neural functioning. Moreover, the relationship fostered between the teacher, the school, and the student lead
s to a greater respect for elders and superiors and strengthening of the moral character.
Styles of Wushu
Traditional wushu encompasses a wide variety of Chinese martial arts styles including, long, short, and double weapons, soft weapons, hard weapons, animal styles, etc.
