+ What is difference between Kung Fu and Karate?
The primary difference is that Kung Fu is Chinese and Karate is Japanese.
There are several other differences as well. The word Kung Fu means “work art” which is to say that we strive to do our best in all areas of life as well as our martial art.
Kung fu derives many of its defense and attack strategies from the animals. For example; the tiger teaches us to be fierce, the snake teaches us speed, the crane teaches us grace and balance, the leopard teaches us power and strength, and the dragon teaches us to recognize the Great Spirit within us all.
Karate which means “empty hand” also derives many of its strategies from animals and focuses a great deal on dynamic kicking techniques. Karate also strives to develop a strong disciplined fighter. A Karate expert can endure great blows to the body and yet maintain a very high level of flexibility. Training methods will often include a great deal of physical conditioning and stretching.
Both systems are an effective method of self-defense, personal growth and a great way to maintain good health.
+ What is Hung Gar?
Hung Gar Kung Fu is one of the oldest and most practical forms of martial arts known. The main emphasis in this style is on the foundation, primarily because of where it evolved. These low solid postures were necessary because the feet were often under water in the mud of rice patties or on a moving boat where many people lived. This also meant that the focus was on hand techniques with very little kicking. This style is sometimes called Chinese boxing with its similar stances and inside fighting style. This system is also known as a five animal style where the student learns movements of the snake, the tiger, the leopard, the crane and the dragon.
+ What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a martial art within whose slow and gentle movements are embodied vigor and force. part of the rich culture of China The movements are extended and natural, gentle and graceful, simple and easy to learn
+ I note you stress hard work and not lowering standards. Which is definitely a positive attitude. My concern is I want to get into a disciplined fitness, but I do not want to risk my health from an initial standpoint. I would assume that you have starter classes to build up a fitness program? I dont intend to have a heart attack!
Yes we do and it is recommended that you pace your accordingly. We offer private lessons to all new students from 4:00 to 5:00 on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s and Saturday’s at 3:00 ( no charge for this) & introduce them to our workout program at their own rate. Your progress in this area is entirely up to you, although we will advise you based on your needs.
+ What is the best time to observe a beginners class ?
Please refer to our weekly class schedule and feel free to visit any class that meets your needs.
+ Are there any restrictions when viewing a class or pressure to enroll ?
You are welcome to visit as a guest anytime we have classes. In addition to our basic training workouts, we have classes that would provide an individual with a comprehensive overview of what they would experience in our school at all levels. Please be assured that you are welcome as a guest and do not have to concern yourself with any hard line signup tactics.
+ What are new students expected to wear for class ?
New students are required to wear a full T shirt (no tank tops) , a pair of long pants ( such as sweats) that they can move in freely and a pair of sneaker type footwear, or if you prefer, you can purchase a uniform.
+ How long will it take to become a black sash or belt?
How quickly you can become a black sash in our school depends on the following: Your natural ability, the amount of time you attend classes and how hard you train. This could take a well focused and committed individual anywhere from 3 to 5 years.
+ Could you tell me the minimum age you need to be for classes?
We now have special Little Red Dragon classes for 4 to 6 years old.