Literally translated the term kung fu means "achievement through great effort" or simply "hard work"; so there is no special relation to the martial arts. However, it has been used all over the world to refer to the Chinese martial arts - that is why we use it at our school as well. Nowadays more widely used and more exact is the term Wushu.

According to estimates there are at least 400 different styles of Kung Fu in China. Among those, Shaolin Kung Fu is attached special importance to. Over a period of 1,500 years, inside Shaolin Temple a martial arts system on the highest level has been developed and the most complete knowledge about martial arts has been concentrated there.

The forms (Tao Lu) are the central element in Kung Fu. By practising the forms, the practitioner learns techniques and principles of self-defence, gains strength and agility and trains coordination and concentration. Regular repetition of these movements helps the body and the mind to become one; it develops a deeper understanding for the natural forces.

Another important aspect of trainig Kung Fu is cultivating one's internal energy (Qi). Shaolin Kung Fu offers a variety of qi gong exercises such as the horse stance and techniques of meditation for this purpose.

All classes start with a work out including cardio, strength and stretching exercises. These exercises improve stamina and overall control of the body. They stimulate the organs, develop the body's muscles and increase the energy flow.

Forms and techniques are taught in progressive courses which need about one year of steady training each. Based on the basic exercises, over the years open-hands forms, weapons and animal styles are taught and according to students' needs and wishes further contents or aspects of Shaolin Quan are added or deepened.

In the first three years the basics are taught and students develop strength, stamina and flexibility. With the help of short sequences, they train and internalise the basic stances, strikes and kicks of Shaolin Quan kung fu as well as first techniques for self-defence.

	Basics	Forms / Tao Lu	Shaolin Qi Gong
Year 1	basic stances, kicks, acrobatics, self-defence	Wubu Quan, Lianhuan Quan
Year 2	basic stances, kicks, acrobatics, self-defence, basic exercises with the staff)	Xiaohong Quan, Wuxing Bafa Quan,Yin Shou Gun
Year 3	basic stances, kicks, acrobatics, self-defence, basic exercises with the broadsword	Tongbi Quan, Shaolin Dao	Ba Duan Jin

In these years contents become more complex and difficult; the forms are longer and more demanding. The martial art of Chen Style Taijiquan is added to the training. However, the basics like stances and kicks are still an integral part.

	Basics	Forms / Tao Lu	Shaolin Qi Gong	Chen Style Taijiquan
Year 4	kicks, acrobatics, self-defence, basic exercises with the sword	Qi Xing Quan, Shaolin Jian	Yi Jin Jing	Chan Si Jing
Year 5	kicks, acrobatics, self-defence	Da Hong Quan, Luohan Quan, Long Quan		Shi Ba Shi (first half)
Year 6	kicks, acrobatics, self-defence, basic exercises with the spear	Shaolin Quan, Shi San Qiang		Shi Ba Shi (second half)

After the 'fundamentals' the arts of Shaolin Quan are nowhere near the end. There are still countless open-hands forms, weapons and animal styles and it is nearly impossible to learn and truly master all of them. Qi Gong and Taijiquan, too, offer an infinite source of exercises and possibilities.

Therefore, students are free to develop further according to their inclinations and talents, to expand their strengths and to overcome their weaknesses. Subject to interest and abilities, all students can take part in dan-grading examinations in order to earn a real, internationally accredited certificate of the Shaolin Wushu Association.