Chinese martial arts include hundreds of very
distinct styles and it can be a considerable challenge to become proficient with
the different names and terminology used. Wushu, which is directly translated as
“martial arts” is the correct term to use when referring to the entire spectrum
of styles and schools. Gong Fu (Kung Fu is used more often these days), on the
other hand, actually means “learned skill.
Martial arts have been practiced for thousands of
years in China. Evidence shows that martial arts were practiced extensively by
Chinese military forces 5,000 years ago. Soldiers trained in unarmed and armed
combat and wrestling. The first formally documented Chinese martial art, Shuai
Chiao (Chinese wrestling) can be found in records dating back 3,000 years.
Training in Chinese martial arts involves the mind as much as the body. Chinese
martial arts draw on aspects of Taoism, Confucianism and Zen Buddhism. The
tapping of chi “energy within” is an important goal of a martial arts exponent.
Chi is hidden in the lower stomach and experts learn to channel this energy to
achieve maximum power. Like chi, Ying and Yang is another idea of Taoism which
has influenced Chinese martial arts.
The balancing of opposites to achieve harmony can
be seen in many martial arts movements. However, too often the focus consists in
only learning the various techniques, but not the real depth of the martial
arts. It is with this goal in mind, that I have compiled a number of books and
papers to provide a more comprehensive understanding behind the concept of
Chinese martial arts for anyone interested in more in-depth information.
Translation also allows for the dissemination of
these historical documents to a larger audience in other countries.
Publications are currently available in English and German.
