How to Learn Northern Shaolin

Northern Shaolin is one of the original styles of Asian martial arts.

Northern Shaolin kung fu is the original style of "external" Asian martial arts. Northern Shaolin is famous for its long-range techniques such as jumping kicks, quick advances, wide stances and aggressive attacking techniques. These contrast the "internal" techniques of Southern Shaolin, which was intended for close-quarters combat. Northern Shaolin is considered somewhat dated by modern martial artists, however, many of its techniques provide a good foundation for the beginning martial artist. To master Northern Shaolin kung fu takes years. What follows is an introduction to some basic forms and techniques.

Things You'll Need

• Workout clothing

Instructions

Mok Gar

1. Twist your body to the right and bending your left knee into a slight crouch while extending both your arms out into a twin-fist block. These movements are meant to parry and block a punch.

2. Sink down into a squared-off horse stance and extend your right arm out into a long fist strike.

3. Bring your left arm across your chest while bending at the elbow to form a short fist. The short elbow is intended to grab your opponent's arm and pull them into your forward hand which delivers a strike using the long fist to punch.

Fut Gar

1. Turn your right foot inwards and lean forward slightly into a bow and arrow stance with your hands in a praying position over your head. This step is meant to block and trap a punch that is headed for your face.

2. Bring your praying hands down through the center of your body while sinking into a sitting or horse stance with your knees bent and your feet forward. This is meant to break an opponent's arm.

3. Resume the bow and arrow stance and stab your praying hands out horizontally in front of your face. This final strike should be launched towards your opponent's throat.

Choi Gar

1. Stand in a toe-horse stance with your right foot planted and your left heel up off the ground.

2. Cross your right arm over your left into an x-block. This is meant to block a punch to the groin.

3. Step out into a square-horse stance and hit outwards with the backs of both of your fists. This move is intended to strike your opponent or opponents in the face.

Li Gar

1. Launch a short, low sidekick off your front leg with a simultaneous hand stab from the corresponding arm. The kick is meant to block an opponent's kick.

2. Simultaneously stab your hand toward your opponent's eye.

3. Create a block by bringing your other arm forward to protect your ribs and arm pit.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are serious about mastering Shaolin kung fu, find a kung fu school or train with someone who is more experienced.

• Always be sure to stretch before doing any kind of martial arts activity. Not doing so could put you at risk of injury.

References

• Northern Shaolin Kung Fu
• Northern China Shaolin