WING CHUN By far the most famous exponent of Chinese Martial Arts was Bruce Lee, who was originally trained by the famous Wing Chun Master, Yip Man (Ip Man). Wing Chun style is known for its no nonsense practicality, and in particular its efficiency when used in close combat and confined spaces.
 | SHAOLIN KUNG FU Also known as Shaolin Wushu, Shaolin is the name of a Chinese temple which was once home to Bodhidharma (a South Indian Buddhist monk). Legend has it that Bodhidharma left the Shaolin monks with a collection of health strengthening exercises which the Shaolin monks later combined with their practice of martial arts. The result was a formidable group of monks with extraordinary strength, flexibility, speed and martial art ability. This has made the Shaolin monks famous for their Chinese martial arts. |
  | WUSHU Modern Wushu in China normally refers to the standardised system of sport Chinese martial arts. This standardised Wushu has two categories - 1) Taolu - which is the practice of routines involving martial arts movements and barehand or with weapons. Taolu are commonly used in Wushu competitions where competitors compete by performing their martial arts taolu (routine) before a panel of judges who give scores based on the merits of the skill and presentation. There is no contact or combat. 2) Sanshou - free fighting or combat Chinese martial arts. It is normally competed with two competitors in a ring attempting to strike eachother in order to score the highest points to win the fight. |
 | TAI CHI Taijiquan or Tai Chi Chuan is literally translated to mean "supreme ultimate boxing". It is an exercise system which developed from Chinese martial arts, and is now practised by millions of people around the world for its numerous health benefits. The martial applications of Tai Chi are normally practiced by Tai Chi martial artists as opposed to general population who seek health benefits only. |
 | WUDANG and Shaolin are the two major branches of Chinese martial arts linked to temple and religion. The Wudang style is considered an 'internal' style, focusing on cultivation of internal health and power. It closely follows the principles of Taoism (Daoism). Wudang style is increasingly gaining popularity outside China as a powerful, authentic style which compared to Shaolin Kung Fu, is less commercially influenced. |
 | LION DANCE is closely related to Kung Fu, as the performers are usually martial artists. Two performers in a lion costume perform moves and stunts that mimic the actions of the lion. The foundation movements of lion dance are same as those found in most Chinese martial arts. The traditional purpose of the lion dance is to ward off evil and welcome good fortune. |
