Tag modern kung fu

Debunking the Myths of Kung Fu in China Part 2: How Did the Rise of New China Affect Shaolin Kung Fu?

How did the rise of New China affect Shaolin kung fu? Despite common misconceptions, the Communist government supported wushu as a cultural asset, helping traditional and modern martial arts thrive. This article dives into the factors shaping Shaolin kung fu's evolution, from political and economic influences to the impact of the Cultural Revolution, revealing how Shaolin endured and grew into a global phenomenon. -As published in Martial Arts Magazine Australia, Issue 6

Debunking the Myths of Kung Fu in China Part 1: Is Modern Kung Fu ‘Real’ Kung Fu?

The global fascination with kung fu has led to an abundance of information—often riddled with myths and misconceptions—about the art form, its origins, and its place in the modern world. Online platforms like Reddit, Quora, Facebook, and Instagram teem with debates about the authenticity of modern kung fu, the impact of China’s political history on traditional practices, and what truly defines "real" martial arts. -As published in Martial Arts Magazine Australia, Issue 6

Applications: Can You Actually Fight by Learning Kung Fu Forms?

When people think of kung fu, they often imagine flowing, intricate movements or dramatic, acrobatic forms (called taolu in Chinese). This visual aspect of kung fu is awe-inspiring and artful, but one common question arises: Can learning these forms actually help you fight? To answer this, let’s break down what kung fu forms are, how they contribute to martial skill, and the realities of translating these skills into a fight scenario.