I.

Introduction

Kung Fu (Chinese, “hard work” or “man of attainment”), Chinese martial art encompassing both armed and unarmed techniques. Covering all formats of combat (punches, kicks, throws, grappling, holds, and locks), it exists in several hundred different styles drawing its influences from the animal kingdom, the natural elements, and mysticism. Kung fu seeks to develop more from its students than the ability to defend oneself. It is steeped in philosophy and tradition largely as a result of its close historical ties with the Chinese religious movements of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism. Today, kung fu is taught widely throughout the world, but is not as readily competitive as other martial arts because of the inherent danger of its many deadly techniques.