We are a traditional style school and employ traditional teaching methodologies. We are not a tournament-centered school. A genuine desire to learn and a commitment to dedicated practice is necessary for each student to reach his or her full potential as a martial artist.

Men, women and children can all benefit from practicing martial arts. Although individual goals may differ from student to student, 3 benefits that students often seek are: self-defense skills, improved health and character development.

The training at Boulder Kung Fu Academy is intensive and extensive. Students start with stretching and conditioning the body with kung fu basics. Then they learn forms (classical routines of mantis kung fu moves), self-defense techniques, chin na, weapons, two-man fighting sets and sparring. As students advance, they will be introduced to further traditional training methodologies such as Iron-Sand Palm and the 18 Lohan (a form of martial chi kung).

Traditional kung fu involves the development of the total person. It is a way of life, a method of achieving and attaining the highest physical and mental development possible. The program is designed to develop a physically, mentally and spiritually well-rounded martial artist.

KUNG FU
Seven-Star Praying Mantis uses the punches, palm strikes, grabs, locks, kicks and sweeps found in many other traditional Chinese martial arts. One of the distinguishing features of the style is the mantis hook. The application of the hook embodies the principles of yin and yang--soft and hard power. It can be used to divert the force of an incoming attack--enabling a person to defend him or herself regardless of size or strength. Or, it can be used to strike decisively to sensitive spots of the body such as various pressure points.

Northern Praying Mantis Kung Fu is especially famous for its speed and continuous attacks, as well as its use of feign attacks.

TAI CHI CHUAN
Tai Chi Chuan is an ancient Chinese art dating back to approximately 1200 A.D. Tai chi is practiced for health and self-defense. It is easy to learn, needs no special equipment, can be practiced anywhere in a minimum amount of space, and is suitable for everyone, young and old.

Wu Style Tai Chi consists of 108 movements practiced in a slow, relaxed manner. The mind becomes very calm and blood circulates freely to all parts of the body, making the internal organs strong. The unity of movement, breathing and concentration contributes greatly to physical and mental health.

Tai Chi Chuan relies on internal power. Many of the moves are soft and yielding, turning the opponent's power back against him. As in all styles of kung fu, proficiency in self-defense requires dedication and consistent practice.