9781422286692

What is Kung Fu?

Kung fu is a Cantonese Chinese word that can be roughly translated as “hard work.” It is also a vulgar expression for an older term, wu shu (pronounced woo shoo). Wu shu is comprised of two Chinese ideograms, or characters, wu and shu, meaning “to stop or quell a spear.” In this way, the term wu shu describes a Chinese form of martial arts. While kung fu has been seen in films by millions of eager fans worldwide, kung fu as an activity has only become available to non- Chinese people in the past 40 years or so. An exciting and fascinating martial art, kung fu uses weapons as well as blocking, punching, striking, kicking, seizing, grappling, and throwing techniques. Kung fu can be practiced in a group, with a friend—or even alone. It is suitable for all ages and levels of fitness and training, and can be customized to suit all individuals, including those with disabilities. Most kung fu schools have a progressive curriculum, starting with the most basic techniques and working up to techniques that demand great skill.Kung fucanbepracticedwithout equipment or auniform.Very little The legendary Lee Jun-Fan, better known as Bruce Lee, the kung fu movie star, punched and kicked his way onto the big screen during the 1960s, and may well be the most famous kung fu movie star ever.

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