Hung Kuen Kung Fu

The accepted originator of Hung Kuen is Hung Hei Geung. Hung was taught the tiger style by Gee Sim (one of the five ancestors from the Shaolin Monastery)

Hung Kuen or Hung Gar is a form of Shaolin Kung Fu. The Shaolin style was developed in the Shaolin temple by monks after observing animals at play, hunting and fighting.

The moods and movements of these animals were imitated for health and self defence techniques. Five main animals were studied, each animal with there own attributes.

Tiger techniques to develop the bone

Crane techniques for sinew training

Snake techniques for chi

Dragon techniques for spiritual movement

Leopard techniques to give speed and agility

The animals were added to the five elements of earth, wood, water, fire and metal to form 10 pattern Hung Kuen.

Hung Kuen is classed as an external style of fighting. Whilst true for combat, during practice Hung Kuen strives to use internal energy or Chi. This energy is centred at a point just below the navel called the Dantien. Through correctly supervised training this energy can be moved to different parts of the body: punching or blocking requires this energy travels down the arm to the fist or the forearm. In each case the energy gives force to the technique and at the same time protects the body against injury.

The style develops the body and strengthens limbs. The internal trains the mind by special breathing called iron wire (Tid Sin). This training provides health and fitness to defend against an attack.

The style is taught as a sequence of moves, known as a form. Each form develops body co-ordination and breath control. They range from simple basic moves to complex techniques bringing together body and mind. The aim is to increase self-confidence and give physical and mental health.

To ensure the continuation of the style, etiquette must be maintained at all times. Respect to the ancestors and teachers is taught: without them there would be nothing to learn or practice.