The most effective kung fu training techniques are usually the most basic.For Centuries the teachings at the Shaolin temple remained the same. The foundations remain: Strength , flexibility stamina and endurance.
This involved many exercises that focused on conditioning your body during many grueling drills.
I remember when I first started out as a green martial artist I was paired with a partner who was much more advanced.First up we had to defend agains a round punch. At the time my weak puny arms would deliver the punch , only to have my partners strong conditioned arms block and follow up.
Even though this was a simulated attack – I still remember the how much my arms hurt when they where blocked by the arm of a well conditioned opponent.
Even though this was a defensive strike his arms felt like steel rods, so the harder I would strike the more pain I would inflict on myself! It got to the stage where I would slowly through the punch rather than give it the full intention it deserved. At the end of the class my arms had been battered and bruised and even had some swelling.
The lesson here is that your kung fu training does not begin with the fancy kicks punches and Bruce Lee moves. It starts with the base. Your body, your conditioning and your ability to strengthen your arms, legs and stance to repel your opponents attack. Fitness is key. Strengthening the legs and arms. Also key is developing flexibility in your muscles, sinews and joints.
There are many kung fu exercises such as the horse riding stance and other postures that facilitate this conditioning. I guarantee you that having this solid foundation will give even the novice practitioner a huge advantage even against a more experienced fighter.
