Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the benefits of Kung Fu and why should I practice it?
Kung Fu aims to develop every aspect of the human being. Practice thereby improves health and fitness, and can provide effective self-defense skills, guided by a philosophy of openness, self-transcendence, and support for others.
2. How do I choose a good martial arts school?
When choosing a martial arts school, the most important thing to look at is the school’s philosophy. At Shaolin Wing Chun Nam Anh Kung Fu, the philosophy is transmitted through explanations and practice of the Kung Fu Way — namely the definition of the Three Truths and the Four Worthinesses. In short, it is a matter of developing skills and qualities in order to help others cultivate themselves.
The second thing to look at is the students’ fighting skills. By its very definition, a martial arts school must teach techniques based on specific methods proven to be effective in combat. Without this, the essence of martial arts practice is forgotten.
3. What are the main characteristics of the Orthodox Shaolin Wing Chun style?
The Shaolin system dates back to the period of the Temple that bears its name, and is defined by a set of techniques to strengthen the physical body, training for combat, for the development of internal energy, and for spiritual strength. Over time, when the Temple was destroyed, these techniques were condensed and gave rise to the Wing Chun style. The short-range principle allows force to be exerted at maximum effectiveness at close distance. In contrast to modern branches, the orthodox lineage has faithfully followed the original Wing Chun style, notably through the preservation of the five animal forms.
4. What makes a school traditional, and how do you recognize a good Master?
First and foremost, a traditional school is guided by a philosophy that is true to Eastern tradition. This philosophy must be taught and put into practice by the Master.
Five other characteristics define a traditional school:
- The absolute authority of the Grand Master (monarchical structure)
- Unity among practitioners
- The school as a place of refuge
- The principle of duty: ensuring the maintenance and well-being of the school’s students
- Highly personalized teaching at an advanced level
To assess a Master’s authority, one must refer to the following maxim: “No one can become a good general without first having been a good soldier.” The Master must therefore have been an exemplary practitioner and disciple of a recognized school, having completed their training and accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience to guide their students along their individual paths.
5. Is Kung Fu an effective method of combat, and how long does it take to become proficient?
Kung Fu techniques are particularly effective in a self-defense situation, provided they have been taught by a recognized Master and practiced for a sufficient length of time. To be effective, a practitioner must master the 3 M’s:
- Mastering technique
- Mastering emotions
- Mastering violence
Kung Fu represents long-term training. Although practitioners will quickly notice improvements in their physical condition and abilities, learning can last a lifetime. It takes at least ten years of serious practice to receive the title of Master, and each person’s progress depends on the quality of their practice.
6. Do you enter competitions, and do you accept challenges?
The Orthodox Shaolin Wing Chun School does not participate in competitions, primarily because the pursuit of glory and titles is not a value we uphold, but also because our practice is based on the principle of effectiveness in real-life situations — not on the specific rules and regulations of a competitive context.
Regarding challenges, the school maintains a peaceful attitude. Our practitioners do not provoke fights, but we are open to invitations, provided they are serious and respectful of traditional protocol.
7. What is your ranking system?
The ranking system consists of three belts: the Black Belt, the Red Belt, and the White Belt.
Beginners do not hold a belt. It generally takes 3 to 6 months of practice and passing an examination to earn the Black Belt. To achieve this rank, one must understand a few basic techniques and grasp certain theoretical elements. The first belt is black because it symbolizes the darkness and lack of knowledge of the practitioner in the vast field of martial arts. A practitioner may earn three ranks, or “dans,” on this belt, each marked in red.
After passing the Black Belt at the third dan level, practitioners may then request to sit the Red Belt examination. This level requires greater mastery of techniques and a deeper understanding of the discipline. Red symbolizes the practitioner’s determination and perseverance. The Red Belt level is still considered a beginner stage, as it is only at this point that true Kung Fu training begins. There are nine dans — each marked in white — that can be achieved at this level, each representing the abilities and qualities a practitioner must possess. At the fourth dan, a practitioner may be called a Master, and at the seventh dan, a Grand Master. In the case of Grand Master Nam Anh, he has completed his training and achieved the rank of Red Belt, ninth dan.
Finally, the White Belt is reserved for Grand Masters who retire from society to follow a spiritual path. White symbolizes purity, wisdom, and enlightenment.
8. How are beginner classes structured?
Classes are two hours long and generally run as follows:
- Meditation: focusing the mind before practice
- Basic limbering exercises: a series of exercises designed to develop flexibility and stability, preparing the body for Kung Fu training
- Basic stances and movements: learning stability while standing
- Basic techniques (punches, kicks): developing strength and agility
- Basic forms: learning to harmonize the internal and external components of the body
- Physical conditioning: to enhance overall capacity
- Theory: understanding the historical, technical, and philosophical aspects of the school
- Meditation: centering the body and mind after a demanding session
9. I am injured / I have a disability / I am older / I am in poor shape… Can I still practice Kung Fu?
Kung Fu practice is open to everyone. Learning is tailored to each individual’s abilities and pace. Kung Fu can also be an effective means of correcting certain physical disabilities and improving physical condition and overall health. For those who prefer a gentler approach, our school also offers Chi Kung Tai Chi classes.
10. What is Chi Kung Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a style of Kung Fu belonging to the Wu Tang system, in the same way that Wing Chun belongs to the Shaolin system. Our school’s Chi Kung Tai Chi classes are designed with health and well-being in mind. The exercises are performed slowly and gently, with a focus on breathing. The words “Chi Kung” mean “perseverant energy work”… read more
11. Do you offer trial classes? Can I sit in on a class?
It is possible to sit in on a beginner class, a children’s class, or a Chi Kung Tai Chi class. There is always someone on hand to welcome visitors and provide information.
Trial classes are not offered because a single class is not sufficient to fully experience the benefits of the practice. Registration covers three months of practice; classes are therefore intended for serious and committed individuals.
12. How do I register and what are the costs?
The school has a non-disclosure policy regarding pricing, except in person and on a case-by-case basis. Prospective students are invited to sit in on a class to obtain all necessary information. The price is significantly less important than the compatibility between the school, the instructor, and the student.
The school is always open to visitors, and registration can be completed at any time, provided space is available. A uniform and practice footwear are provided upon registration.