Shaolin Kung Fu: Basic Techniques

As a new Shaolin student, you will begin by learning some basic techniques of blocking, punching, and kicking. You will also learn the basic stances from which to execute these techniques. For the most part, new students will need to spend a while on the basics just to build up muscle and connective tissue strength and overall balance and coordination. If you already have some experience at martial arts, this preparatory time may go faster than if you haven't.

Once you have some mastery of the basics, you will begin to learn the first two 16-point forms, which consist of a series of block-kick-punch techniques. This will introduce you to the concept of combined techniques, and will help you learn to coordinate these techniques into an effective defense.

You will also learn some basic Chin Na, or grappling techniques. Chin-Na is translated as "seize" (Chin) and "control" (Na). Beginners learn how to do two types of wrist bends, with which you can turn the tables on an attacker who grabs your arm. This introduces you to the concepts of attacker control through joint locking, and of means of defense other than striking.

At each level, you will gain conditioning and learn concepts that will enable you to carry on to the next level. Therefore, patience is required as new techniques build upon strength and expertise already gained. You will be advanced when you are ready.