Kung Fu

Let's start with an explanation of few terms and expressions. The term 'kung fu' (or 'gung fu') literally means 'achievement through great effort' but is also taken to be the name of a group of Chinese martial arts which typically feature sharp blows and kicks. The term 'kung' means something like achievement or merit, and 'fu' can be translated into man.

History of Kung Fu

Many people are under the impression that Kung Fu originated with the Shaolin Temple. It did not. Read on to get the details.

Although many people believe that the Chinese martial arts originated at the Shaolin Temple there is some evidence to suggest that the Chinese martial arts were well developed before the Shaolin Temple was built. The temple was built in the third century A.D. but there are references to such individuals as the physician Hwa Tuo who was using exercises based on animal movements to improve the physical health of his patients well before that date. Hwa Tuo lived at the time of the Three Kingdom, around A.D. 220-65. Hwa Tuo is said to have created a set of exercises based upon five animals: the tiger, bear, monkey, stork and dear. The reason this is significant is that there is even today a strong relationship between animal movement and the Chinese martial arts.

In fact the Shaolin temple did become a centre of development for the martial arts and remained so for more than a thousand years before it was dissolved by the Ching Dynasty in the Eighteenth Century. As a side note the Shaolin Temple is situated at the foot of the 'Songshan' mountain in Dengfeng County, Honan Province. It should also be said that there have been many Shaolin Temples built all around China. Whether these were set up as competitors to the temple at Songshan or represented an extension of the original Shaolin Temple is not known.

Da Mo (Bodhidharma)

In the year 527 AD, a monk known as Da Mo (Bodhidharma) arrived at the Shaolin Temple. Dat Mo is belived to have been an Indian monk who was probably born in Kanchipuram near Madras. Da Mo travelled to the city of Kuang, now known as Canton, where he was granted an audience with the Emperor at the time, Wu Ti of the Liang Dynasty. The Emperor had instructed local Buddhist monks to translate Buddhist texts from Sanskrit to Chinese with the intention that the general populace would then have the ability to practice the Buddhist religion. After his audience with the Emperor, Dat Mo travelled to a monastery in the Kingdom of Wei before finally arriving at the Shaolin temple. When Da Mo initially arrived at Shaolin, he was refused admittance, perhaps because he was considered a foreigner. Rejected by the monks, Da Mo went to a nearby cave and meditated by staring at the cave wall for nine years until the monks recognized his religious prowess and admitted him. Legend has it that he bored a hole through one side of the cave with his constant gaze. Unfortunately, the real reason that Da Mo earned his recognition from the Shaolin monks is lost to history. There is also a story that a local monk was so moved by Dat Mo's piety that he cut off one of his hands in symaphy. Once admitted to the temple it is believed that Dat Mo found his Chinese disciples too weak, both physically and mentally, to practice the intensive meditation required by his path to enlightenment. Dat Mo is regarded as the founder of Chan Buddhism which is probably better known by its Japanese derivative, Zen Buddhism.

The Shaolin Temple

To rectify monks' fitness problem, Dat Mo devised exercises combining physical movement and breathing, thus strengthening the bodies and minds of his disciples. This enabled them to pursue the spiritual path with more vigor. Since Dat Mo was himself of the warrior Caste (Ksatriva) it is possible some of the exercises were drawn from the Indian martial tradition. It is evident, therefore that early Shaolin Kung Fu was largely internal in nature, being designed for the improvement of health, control of the mind and the perception of the Buddha nature. The content of this training has come down to the present time as:

Ye Gun Kung - Exercises designed to strengthen the physical body by working the tendons Sai Choi Kung - The art of cleansing (the body - mind) Sime Kung - Meditation practice incorporating: stationary or moving exercises training the practitioner to sense, improve and finally control the movement of the Chi in his body; and spiritual training, an effort to directly perceive one's 'Original face' or 'Buddha Nature'

The Chinese martial arts, and indeed all the martial arts that followed, appear to be the result of a cross-fertilisation between India and China and the passage of people between the two countries. Monks and merchants were constantly making the journey and it is not unreasonable to assume that they required trained body guards or even to learn to defend themselves. Combined with Dat Mo's intervention at the Shaolin Temple this has lead to what we call Kung Fu today. Lau Gar is a form of Kung Fu and as such can also trace its roots to the Shaolin Temple.

Lau Gar Kuen

There are many schools of kung fu and Lau Gar Kuen is one of the oldest being one of the original 5 ancestor styles. Lau Gar Kuen translated means 'Lau Family Fist'.

Origins of Lau Gar

Lau Gar Kuen is derived from a form of boxing practiced at Kuei Ling Temple situated in Kong Sai (Guangxi) Province in west China. It was learned from a monk on retreat from that temple by Master Lau Sam Ngan, "Three Eyed Lau", a tiger hunter, whom we honour as founder of our style. He is reputed to have earned his name because of a deep scar in the middle of his forehead which resembled a third eye. The style subsequently became popular over a large part of south west China. In fact all of the southern systems of kung fu are derived from 5 major styles namely: Lau, Hung, Choy, Li and Mok.

Towards the end of the 1800's Master Yau's Grandfather (Yau Luk Sau, pictured above) conceived the desire to learn Kung Fu. At the age of 13 he left Kowloon, now in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and travelled to Kong Sai Province where he trained under the Master Tang Hoi Ching. Nine years passed before he was given the right to teach independent of Master Tang. Master Yau's Grandfather subsequently met the Master Wan Goon Wing with whom he continued his studies for a further six years, and whom he served as son until the latter's death. On his return to Kowloon, Master Yau Luk Sau taught only his family and close friends before opening his club to the public. During this time Master Yau commenced his training at the age of six. The training was conducted at the village community centre in Kowloon City (Gau Lung Sing) just outside the famous Walled City. His training continued for 4 hours a night 360 nights a year for 15 years.

Master Yau brought the style to the United Kingdom in 1961. The British Kung Fu Association was set up in 1973 and Master Jeremy Yau, being the keeper of the Lau Gar style, was invited to be the Chief Instructor. Subsequently Lau Gar has become Britain's most popular form of Kung Fu.

Weapons of Lau Gar

Weaponry remains an important part of advanced Lau Gar practice. This article describes some of the most significant weapons we use.

As you progress through the grades weapons become increasingly important. At first glance weapons practice may not seem to have much direct use in a self-defence environment (let's face it, you are not going to last very long walking down the street with a sword before you attract the attention of the Police - and quite rightly so).

However, weapons practice gives you two important things: Firstly weapons practice teaches you principles which can be applied to everyday objects such as umbrellas, walking sticks etc. These can then be exploited successfully in self-defence. Secondly, a weapon is really just an extension of the body. As such weapon training provides an ideal platform for advanced martial art practice requiring strength, speed and coordination. All of these are to the benefit of any martial artist.

What follows is a description of some of the more common Lau Gar weapons. The weapons shown are not to scale in reference to each picture.

Eye Brow Staff or Wooden staff

Broad Sword

The Chinese broad sword ('Dan Dao') is a single edged weapon. It can vary in length according to the practitioner's stature but is generally in the region of 90cm long. The blade of the dan dao is quite stiff, unlike some other Chinese single edged swords which can be very flexible. Its origins probably lie in the need for a practical weapon that could be used as a kind of machete should the need arise. Use of the dan dao is characterised by speed and aggression coupled with slashing and whirling movements. There is less emphasis placed on the thrusting movements that are a feature of straight, double edged swords although such movements do occur in Lau Gar dan dao forms.

Rat Tail or Throat Locking Staff

The rat-tail or throat locking staff ('Soar Hou Kwan') is made of hard wood. It is longer than most wooden staffs being around 7 feet long. It is easily identified because it tapers from a thickness of about 5cm at one end to 2.5 - 3cm at the other. No doubt it is the taper that gives it the name 'rat tail'. The rat tail staff is truly a Lau Gar weapon as it is not used by many other styles.

Butterfly Knives

The butterfly knives ('Wu Dip Dao') are very much a southern Chinese weapon. They are more like short swords than knives being roughly the length of your forearm. Each has a blade edges on one side and a closed handle that protects the fingers. There is also a hook on the non-edged side of the blade which allows the practitioner to pivot the knife around so that it runs down the forearm. Rotating, slashing and chopping movements are common with this weapon.

Tiger Fork

The tiger fork ('Pa Fa') is a key Lau Gar weapon as it is closely associated with the style's founder, Lau Sam Ngan or Three Eyed Lau who was a tiger hunter. The Tiger Fork is in the region of 6 feet in length and has a substantial steel trident or fork at its head. The supporting staff is made of hard wood and is usually very thick. The Tiger Fork is a heavy weapon being in the region of 30 - 40 lbs in weight and requires both skill and strength on behalf of the practitioner.

Kwan Dao

The Kwan Dao takes its name from its inventor, General Kwan Yu, a central figure in many Chinese myths and legends and a figure that can often be seen in statue form. In fact General Kwan can be regarded as the patron deity of the Chinese martial arts and shrines devoted to him are not uncommon in traditional kung fu schools. Other organisations such as the police also pay homage to him. As an example the main CID office (or 'daai fong') in Hong Kong police stations always have a shrine to General Kwan. The reason he is so revered is that after performing many good deeds during the latter part of the Han Dynasty (in the second century AD) General Kwan was put in command of the Emperor's army. There he forged a reputation for both strength and military genius as well as becoming famed as a defender of the righteous and supporter of the just cause.

General Kwan was a very strong man and he decided he needed a weapon suited to his particular needs. Specifically, he wanted a weapon that he could use from horse back or on foot and which would be effective against both foot soldiers and cavalry.

The kwan dao is a heavy weapon being about 6 feet in length. The stout hard wood staff supports a large metal blade. The blade usually features a small hook or protrusion about half way down its back edge which can be used to trap opponent's weapons. This is a Lau Gar weapon that requires a combination of skill and strength.

Cane Shield

('Tang Pye')

Spear

The Lau Gar spear ('chung') is a long weapon being in the region of 7 feet in length. Unlike the spears that evolved in many other parts of the world the Chinese spear is not a throwing weapon. It further distinguishes itself by having a flexible rattan staff rather than a rigid hard wood one.

The spear is regarded by many as the oldest Chinese weapon originally developed for use as a cavalry weapon to be used from horse back. However, in kung fu schools it is used as a weapon for practitioners with their feet firmly planted on the ground. Its flexible staff lends itself to some unexpected uses such as slashing movements. That is why it is common to have a pointed, double-edged head which can be used to slice as well as thrust.

Additional Weapons

In addition to the traditional weapons of Lau Gar a handful of other weapons are available to learn within the association and are often taught by the Lau Gar Guardians (see calendar for Guardian Courses). These weapons have been often learned from various Masters following training trips to China.

Straight Sword

Three Sectional Staff

Fan

Chain Whip

Rope Dart

Wooden Bench

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Welcome to the frequently asked questions section. We hope to address many of the questions you might have regarding Lau Gar Kung Fu. If your specific question is not answered here, then please do not hesitate to contact us and we will endeavour to help you.

Why do martial arts?

People do martial arts for various reasons. Some people train in the arts for self defence, fitness, confidence, others for competition or simply because they have a passion for what they practice. It’s up to you to decide what you want to do. Martial arts can give you a vast array of principles and techniques to work your body and mind. To become good in anything, you need to practise and martial arts can help improve your quality of life .

How is Kung Fu different from Karate, Judo, or Tae Kwon Do?

Judo is a Japanese sport that involves primarily throwing and grappling. Karate is a Japanese martial art which uses hard hand blocks, straight techniques, lots of power. Tae Kwon Do is a Korean martial that emphasizes the feet as weapons and is also power oriented. Kung Fu is a Chinese martial art that has both hard and soft styles. Kung-fu uses hand and foot strikes, throws, grappling holds, locking, weapons, and self defence. It is therefore a more broad and complex system of combat than many other styles above. Kung Fu is thousands of years old, the styles listed above are relatively new and are said to be derived from Kung Fu.

What is Lau Gar Kung Fu?

A Chinese martial art that uses kicks and punches together with grabs and joint locks to form a well rounded self-defence system. Advanced practice also includes the use of traditional weapons such as swords and sticks. Kung fu is said to have its origins in the 6th century AD. Lau Gar Kuen is a form of kung fu from Southern China.

What does "Lau Gar Kuen" mean?

"Lau Gar Kuen" in English means: Lau = The family name Gar = literally translated as family, Kuen = Fist. short for Kuen Fa (fist movements). Hence Lau Gar Kuen translated means "The Lau Family's Fist methods".

Who is Lau Gar kung fu suitable for?

Lau Gar kung fu is suitable for people of all ages, male or female. Our classes are tailored to take account of your age and physical capabilities so there is no need to worry whether you are young or old.

Should children study Kung Fu?

In general, yes. Some of the possible positives would be control of aggressiveness, instilling self-confidence, self-respect and self-control, as well as the obvious self-defence benefits. Our instructors have all undergone anatomy and first aid courses and therefore appreciate the fact that the joints and connective tissues of children are more vulnerable to injury than those of adults.

Do I have to be fit to do Kung Fu?

Some people are fitter than others but everyone has a base level of fitness which we will help you improve upon. The classes are designed to help individuals become stronger; improve your flexibility and your general fitness. You may also find that you will lose weight, improve your shape and be generally healthier, through practising martial arts. While there are exercises that all students will do, some parts of the training will be catered specifically to the condition and background of each student

Do I have to be flexible to do Kung Fu?

Basically, no. You don't have to be flexible to start out in martial arts, because you will gain flexibility the longer you practice.

Are there specific enrolment times?

No. The majority of Clubs allow new students to enrol at any time.

What forms of training are available within Lau Gar?

There are really 3 aspects to Lau Gar training: Traditional training Self-defence training Kick boxing and competition fighting All of which involved some degree of physical contact. The risk of injury during traditional and self-defence training is minimal. The aim of these types of training is to develop your technical skills. As you progress you will be expected to demonstrate your ability to defend yourself. Sparring is optional in most cases, however you will need to demonstrate a basic level of sparring for intermediate examination. Sparring is kept under strict supervision and is controlled. Students who really want to pursue the fighting aspect can opt for kick boxing and competition fighting. This type of training offers a higher degree of contact and the risks of getting injured are higher. Again however, levels of contact are controlled and all fighters wear protective equipment such as gloves, foot and shin pads, head guards and gum shields.

We also undertake a form of fighting which we call 'sticking hands'. This advanced form of fighting is for brown and black belt grades only because there is no protective equipment and a wide range of techniques are permitted.

What should I wear at my first lesson?

We recommend a loose fitting t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms. Foot ware -Given the wide selection of club venues -I.e. Sports halls with matted areas vs. Community halls .each club will have its own policy to ensure students are safe. Some will accept trainers, some specialist martial arts training shoes or bare feet. All clubs will ask that your training kit be clean and that you ensure your toe and finger nails and kept short. You are likely to get hot when training so please bring some water or other re-hydrating drink (Please avoid bringing jewellery to the classes.)

How regular should I train to get the best benefit.?

Put simply “You reap what you sow“, The more regular and harder your work, the better the benefits . Always remember attend class to learn, and practise in your own time to retain, this approach seems to be the difference between those that really make Kung-fu a way of life.

Are there any health benefits?

The combination of mental and physical movements and exercise relieve problems that may result from injury or illness. Kung-fu can help you cope or overcome; Stress, Poor circulation, Joint problems, Constipation, Fatigue, Abdominal tension High blood pressure, Back pain , Muscular tension, Muscle spasm, Sciatic pain and more…..

Is there a grading system in Lau Gar?

Yes, there is a grading system. There are 8 belts, or rather sashes, from white to black. Beginners have no sash until they take their first grading. Typically after about 12 weeks training.

How long would it take me to get a black belt

It will take as long as it takes. It depends on how you train - It obviously likely that a person who trains 3 times a week regularly challenging mind and body , is more likely to achieve is belt sooner than someone who does the bare minimum. That said from our experience 4-5 years to is probably the average time frame to reach 1st degree black,

Is private tuition available?

Private one on one or small group classes are available. These classes can help to advance students that are focusing on a particular area of interest in their study of martial arts, or to work out a problem they feel they have in their training. Students approaching a grading or tournament may also find these classes of importance. They are also useful for people wishing to increase their fitness with a personal training work out. Just ask your Club instructor for details.

Why should I become a member of BKFA?

By becoming a member you are entitled to attend sparring classes, access the members only section of the is site. Have your grades officially recognised. Enter the national tournaments circuit. You will also receive regular newsletters about up and coming events.

Do you teach weapons?

Weapons training is an integral part of all traditional Chinese Martial arts. The Lau approach is to ensure that students must first have a good understanding of the unarmed aspect of the art before weapons training can commence. The traditional weapons taught within the Lau Gar Kuen are the Eyebrow Staff, Rat-tailed Staff, Broadsword, Butterfly Knives, Tiger Fork/Trident and Spear. Weapons of Lau Gar

What is sparring about?

Sparring is controlled fighting - and something we encourage all students to do however is optional. Sparring is an essential element of training .It gives students a practical insight into the effectiveness of their own training and also how people react to certain techniques. The club lesson the ideal safe environment to experiment and learn.

Do you have competitions?

Sure – Lau kickboxing is renowned as one of the most effective tournament fighting system. There have been continuous streams of students who have been successful on the world stage. We literally have dozens of World Champions. There is an open tournament circuit this attracts practitioners from various styles , Karate, Tae kwon do and more. The BKFA have recently founded a Junior national circuit to promote tournament and an Annual national Lau Gar tournament packed with competitions, demonstrations, seminars for all.

What is the Lau Gar Lineage :

The Lau Gar Kuen system is headed by Master Jeremy of Birmingham, England, head of the British Kung Fu Association. Master Yau brought the style to Britain in 1961, and in 1973 the British Kung Fu Association was set up.

What or who are the Lau Gar Guardians?

Master Jeremy Yau, the Chief Instructor of the British Kung Fu Association (BKFA), has appointed a 'Council of Guardians' comprising senior members of the BKFA. The Council has been working with Master Yau to see how they can best ensure that the knowledge, skills, principles and values of Lau Gar can be preserved so that future generations of students can benefit just as we have.