Understanding Kung Fu: Demystifying Traditional Concepts

Book excerpt: Arising out of Buddhist and Daoist traditions, Chinese martial arts has always been about the complete transformation of body and mind. The masters of old were warriors, scholars and mystics and these arts were developed from the philosophical and alchemical principles they embodied. To truly understand kung fu, the practitioner needs to understand these fundamental principles in depth. This book guides the reader through the essential ideas and lessons that underlie all Chinese martial arts-helping the reader incorporate this new understanding into their training. The book is divided into two parts. The first part breaks down fundamental concepts integral to understanding how to train correctly. The second part gives several training exercises designed to change the body and cultivate real internal skill.