Originating from the famed Shaolin Temple in China, Kung Fu is the oldest
and most diverse of all Martial Arts. It's powerful and resourceful techniques
enable students to have quick reflexes, incredible coordination and balance
and the mental and physical awareness that is necessary for self-defense.
Choy Lay Fut, the style of Kung Fu taught at the Martial
Arts Training Academy, was developed by a man named Chen Heung. Combining
the different styles of Kung Fu he learned, he created a system that combines
speed and power with the grace and beauty of flowing circular movements,
while in turn defining, toning, and strengthening every muscle.
"Choy", and "Lay" are the respective
surnames of two of Chen Heung's teachers: "Choy Fook" and "Lay
Yau San". "Fut" means Buddha, and pays respect to his third
teacher, the "Green Grass Monk", who abandoned his original
name.
Used as a revolutionary force against the government in
the 1800's, Choy Lay Fut was once practiced in secrecy. Even the sounds
made during the execution of certain movements were used as a secret code.
Choy Lay Fut was originally developed as a secret, emergency
combat style of kung fu used during the turbulent period of civil wars
in China. Choy Lay Fut stresses fast and powerful stance transitions,
coordinated with devastating combinations of smashing-swing fists, punches,
animal strikes, kicks, grabs, and throws.
Considered as a Southern Style of Kung Fu, Choy Lay Fut
offers the benefits of Northern kicking techniques coupled with Southern
style's strong, over-powering hand techniques. It contains open-hand palm
strikes developed by Chinese Monks, and Shaolin Animal techniques such
as the Tiger, Crane, Panther, Snake, and Dragon.
Choy Lay Fut's power originates from the waist through
a strong horse stance. It utilizes this power to release punches from
only a foot away from the target. It also uses basic Chin Na grappling
and throwing techniques, high and low kicks, side kicks, snap kicks, hook
kicks, and turn kicks featuring 360-degree spins and turns. Intercepting
and jamming are favorite tactics used against any enemy. Jam an opponent
off balance by moving straight into him while blasting overpowering hooks
and uppercuts. Some of these moves are strikingly similar to Western boxing. |