The Art of Kung

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The Art of Kung-Fu

Over the years, the mysterious world of Chinese Kung Fu has slowly been revealed to Westerners. This art is growing rapidly and in South Africa, it has already achieved a large following and a high standard. Even though some light has been given as to what Kung Fu is all about, there is still an air of intrigue and mystery - and with good reason.

To describe it would be difficult although one can say that it is definitely not just a kick and punch system - it is a way of life. It gives a person confidence, internal and physical strength and all round growth, which helps in one's everyday lifestyle. It is a true art form with its graceful, acrobatical and flowing movements. And it is the ultimate form of self-defence.

Experiencing this magnificent art form

Many SouthAfricans have already had the opportunity of experiencing this magnificent art form of Kung Fu by training under Sifu Jurgens Lamprecht.

Sifu Jurgens, who owns centres in Benoni, Centurion, Garsfontein and Pretoria North, runs his head office in Roodepoort.However, head office is like no ordinary martial arts centre. Taking into account the size of the premises, the training methods offered, the styles taught and the fact that there is no religion involved - this centre is the only one of its kind in Africa and one of only a known few in the world. .

The centre implements Kung-Fu facilities similar to the Northern Shaolin Temple in China. It was in this temple where Kung Fu originated and considering the fact that Sifu Jurgens teaches the authentic Shaolin Temple Kung Fu it makes sense that his school should resemble the temple itself.

The centre offers students the opportunity of training inside as well as on the grounds. The outside training areas include plum blossom poles of different heights and patterns directly copied from the Shaolin Temple, which helps one test, your state of equilibrium and conquer your fear of heights. There are various hand conditioning pots as well as other equipment needed to maintain one's health and fitness. Because of the beautiful and tranquil settings in the garden internal classes, such as Tai Chi, are taught in one of the outdoor areas.

Other styles offered

Other styles taught include the pure Wing Chun, a style invented by a woman, which is a dynamic fighting system. This style can be taught to all martial artists and especially women, as it is a brilliant way to defend one's self even in a small and confined space such as a phone booth. Just by using the pure Wing Chun techniques, a woman would be able to defend herself against an attacker without the need for physical strength.

Another style taught separately is the Shaolin Tiger

This aggressive yet wise animal uses its cunning and strength to out wit and over power its opponents.In training the tiger, one will develop great strength of body and mind. A dynamic style for all those interested in training the animal systems.

Self-defence courses

The school also offers self-defence courses open to all women. These courses cater for situations which happen on a more frequent basis, such as being threatened with a knife or being grabbed from behind as well as how to strike and how to block a punch or slap. An introductory course is offered free of charge to the community at regular intervals. Additional advanced courses are also available.

Seminars

Each year Sifu Jurgens offers various seminars in the Kung Fu, which is open to everyone interested in martial arts and Chinese culture. Previously he invited his teacher, 34th generation Shaolin Fighting Monk, Master Shi Yan Ming, to South Africa to offer a seminar. This seminar was well attended by martial artists from a variety of styles. Never before had martial artists in this country had the honour of being taught directly by a Shaolin Fighting Monk of this calibre. This year Sifu Jurgens will invite his classmate, Shaolin Fighting Monk, Shi Xing Peng, to visit.

Demonstration Team

The Shaolin Kung Fu and Tai Chi Centre also has a demonstration team. This dynamic group of martial artists visit various schools and attend a number of functions where they offer a spectacular Kung-Fu demonstration of about 20 to 30 minutes. The idea behind this team is to increase the awareness of Kung Fu as well as to give curious people an idea of what the authentic Shaolin Temple Kung Fu is really all about.