How to Learn Kung Fu: Training Exercises For Your Path to Mastery

Chinese kung fu is a martial art developed in China over the centuries. Even though kung fu is a form of fighting, the philosophy of kung fu advocates virtue and peace, rather than use violence and aggression to solve problems. 

Learning kung fu has been valued by generations of martial artists. If the history, technique, and benefits of kung fu have inspired you to learn this martial art, then you can start your kung fu training at home.

When you have decided to learn kung fu, the first thing you should do is select a style, such as Shaolin, and begin training your body accordingly. Getting your body in the correct form will make it easier for you to practice and master this martial art.

If you are interested in learning kung fu but don't know where to begin, we have covered the essentials in this guide.

If you start your training at home you will have the freedom to train at your own pace. You can begin your journey of learning kung fu at home once you understand the basics. Gradually, you can work your way up to kung fu trainingwith experienced masters.

If you want to master kung fu, you will need a master’s guidance. Kung fu is not just a style of fighting; it also instills elements that can only be learned through experienced help. Training with a master, or sifu, will help you progress faster and practice better.

The teacher can offer insights and feedback that will enable you to reach your full potential. With professional help you will learn the correct postures and forms and learn advanced techniques. Training at home will prepare you to learn basic moves or ready your body for kung fu; but if you want to master it, you will need professional help.

This is one of the most frequently asked questions among kung fu beginners. Since kung fu is a disciplined martial art, the difficulty level of kung fu depends on the caliber and level of the trainee.

Kung fu is easy to learn if you want to know the basics of martial arts. Mastering kung fu is difficult. Monks dedicate their whole life to achieving mastery of kung fu, and they train vigorously over almost all their waking hours. If you want to achieve that level of mastery you will have to dedicate your life to kung fu, too.

When considering a martial art, we all wonder how long it will take to learn. Parents, in particular, ask this question when enrolling their kids in the academy. Kung fu has many styles, forms and levels. The learning time varies based on all these factors.

Almost all forms of kung fu take at least 3-5 years to learn. Basic kung fu training can be used to improve your body and learn self-defense techniques. Learning basic kung fu takes about 1-2 years of training.

Naturally, becoming a master of kung fu takes a lifetime.

Some training and techniques are easier than others. Learning kung fu is a process. If you’re determined to learn kung fu you should be ready to train for years. Not every trainee will learn at the same pace or with the same intensity, so training rates may vary depending on your dedication.

Kung fu has many different forms, and every type has a different technique and requires a specific skill set to master. Trainees must choose which kung fu form and style they want to practice before learning kung fu. The most notable kung fu styles include:

Shaolin kung fuis considered practical and plain, incorporating both defense and attack, while paying attention to body posture with every beautiful Shaolin-style move.

Shaolin boxing is notably difficult. It includes practicing with both attack and defense forms, with primary focus on the attack. It’s a form with flexible steps, repetitive actions and a beautiful style.

Wushu is translated as martial arts, which refers to all the martial arts of China in general. Wushu is taught as a distinct style and is a national fighting sport in China. Wushu was founded in 1949 as a competitive martial art.

Although Wushu is not strictly speaking a kung fu style, it is still influenced more by kung fu than any other fighting style.

Wing Chun is a southern Chinese kung fu style. It was created by Wu Mei, a female Shaolin master. Wing Chun kung fu uses one’s body movement awareness, generating power from muscle and form. The stance used in Wing Chun embodies bamboo: firm, but flexible. Wing Chun’s bamboo stance is used to redirect external forces or deflect them.

Liang Yi means chaos and Liang Yi Quan, also called Tai Yi Quan, is based on the notion that chaos existed in the universe before the concept of yin-yang was introduced.

Yin-yang is the balance of complementary forces and it is often represented by tai chi. It represents the chaos that existed before balance came into being. It is reflected in the Liang Yi symbol—where yin and yang sit apart. This martial art combines both soft and hard forms, fast and slow movements, and yin and yang—the two extremes.

Bagua is one of the most popular styles of martial arts in China. This martial art is also known by several other names in China and this style mainly focuses on the training and refinement of a trainee’s spirit, potential, and internal energy.

The two primary elements of this art are the interaction between one’s palms and feet. This martial art combines a focus on breathing with external movements. It is most known for feats of agility and dexterity.

A beginner’s kung fu training exercises mainly focus on basic movements, like kicks, punches, stretching, and stances. Basic training also includes different forms and styles. Beginners should learn the basic forms and techniques of kung fu before moving on to advanced techniques.

When you begin training, you should start by doing simple exercises to improve endurance and flexibility. Start by stretching your legs in different ways. Stretches can be followed by jumping, duck walks, step-ups, squat jumps, sprints, frog jumps, squats, and toe jumps, all of which will develop strength and build stamina.

Kung fu employs different stances depending on which kung fu styles are used. The horse stance is most commonly used to develop endurance, strength and patience. Once you are comfortable with the daily routine of basic training, you should move on to training with other stances.

When learning kung fu, stay consistent and patient. This martial art requires daily practice and training to show any results. Here are some tips if you are learning kung fu at home:

When you are learning kung fu at home you should decide on a style and research it thoroughly. Training manuals and books will help you learn more about your kung fu style and how to master it.

To train for kung fu, you will need a specific space where you can practice. Make sure the training room is open and free of obstacles to prevent any injuries and so that you have ample space to practice. Put a mat on the floor for extra protection and balance.

Practicing with a master will provide you with a reliable kung fu training routine. As you are learning, you should try to mimic your routine at home after working with a master.

Consistency is the key to mastering kung fu. We recommend that you practice at least three times a week and train for 1.5 hours to 2 hours. Stick to the same routine and practice consistently.

Before working on your kung fu moves, you should warm-up, do some stretches, sit-ups, and push-ups—or simply go for a walk. Stretching muscles will reduce the chances of any injuries while you practice.

Stances help you prepare to fight. These are crucial when you work on your punches and kicks. Ensure that your stances are solid and slowly move your way towards punches, blocks and kicks.

Along with proper posture, the correct equipment also plays a vital role in kung fu training. The right gear will allow you to practice accurately and master your form at home.

Made4Fighters offers a range of kung fu training equipment to assist you in your quest for mastery. You can browse their website for the best equipment and find everything from Kung Fu Uniforms to Kung Fu swords. They offer separate equipment for men and women, so you can get the right kung fu uniforms for you.

Along with kung fu equipment, you can also purchase protective gear for an extra layer of protection. Have a look at our website to find your ideal products or get in touch with us for personalized assistance.