Feng Shui Study

All the different groups of pugilistic art have some objective. Each of these groups have their own specialities and their own usefulness. A lot will depend on the individuals' intelligence, diligence and concentration in pursuing with the training. There is no limit in the training of the Chinese Pugilistic Art. There is no such thing as a person who is a fully qualified practitioner.

Under the Shaolin Monastery there are five different types of pugilistic art. It started in the beginning with the 'Tat Chuen', which was used as an exercise for the monks of the Monastery. This art is made useful for self defence by the introduction of the 'Lohan' (Buddha). The 'Lohan' art has more concentration on the fighting and defence techniques. The art was further improved by the introduction of the 'Tai Chao' (Tiger) whereby the training power is added. Later there was the introduction of the 'Monkey' art. Its defence and attacking methods are combined with speed and the use of the fingers. The final introduction to the 'Shaolin' art is the 'Crane' art. The concentration is on flexibility, defends and attacks are based on the 'sticky hand' or touch system.

Under the distinguished guidance of our Master Mr. Ang Lian Huat we are taught the 'Tiger Crane Combined Art' (Hoo Her Suan Sin). This art is the combination created by a man Hung Ee Kan and wife Chen Eng Choon, the man specializing in the 'Tiger' art and his wife in the 'Crane' art.

Master Armstrong demonstrates with one of the many Shaolin weapons

The basis of this art is the training of eleven graded sets of exercises, whereby the aim is to achieve stability, flexibility, power and strength through these exercises. The sets of exercises are designed for step by step improvements toward the objective. For a pugilist to learn all eleven sets of fundamental exercises, it would take a minimum of five to six years. After that more advanced exercises would follow.

The beginning stage of the training programme is very important to a pugilist, for if he starts wrongly if would be difficult to adjust him at a later stage. Training usually starts with the leg movements so as to be able to stand at a stable position. After mastering the leg movements, the hand movements would be taught. It is advisable to start the first lesson in a relaxed manner rather than over exerting oneself.

Still, the most important aim in the training of the pugilistic art is to build a physically healthy strong person.

Master Tan Soh Tin,
Chief Instructor, Nam Yang Kung Fu Association