Lau Gar
This is a traditional style derived from the Kuei Ling Temple in the Kong Sai province in south west China and was brought into the UK in 1961 by Master Jeremy Yau. It is a long to medium range style, with punching and kicking techniques, sets or katas and weapons. The sets are often underrated by many instructors, however we consider these to be a very important part of the style. They can be difficult to learn properly from intermediate level and above, but the applications are particularly effective in sparring and have to be taught in class to feel how they work. The sets on their own practised at speed form a very good work out and are beneficial to health. Lau Gar eases the beginner into the style gently, building confidence, speed and toning the body gradually, almost without notice. Weapons are taught from purple sash and above(sixth grade) starting with the knife defence, then progressing to bo staff, broadsword, butterfly knives, trident, spear, three section staff and nunchakus.
Nigel Swatton, Assistant Instructor, 5th degree Bac Loong Gar
Wing Chun
Wing Chun is a short range style using hands and elbows predominantly, kicks are usually low. It is thought that a nun, Ng Mui in China developed the techniques, her habit limiting the legs, hence the low kicks. The style is suitable for people who have problems performing high or flying kicks or tend to suffer with arthritis in the knees. Blocks and attacks are often practised with the same arm and worked with speed. It is a highly effective but can be deadly in sparring if not controlled properly and may prove useful if 'backed into a corner'. The applications of Wing Chun are many and extremely varied and are best taught in class. They can be tricky to learn but the secret, as in many martial arts, is to practise the moves slowly and gradually build up the speed without losing technique. As in the Lau Gar, weapons are taught, such as the wing chun butterfly knives, staff and escrima (although Filipino in origin are a variation of the wing chun weapons), and of course the wooden dummy. Wing Chun also incorporates grappling and groundwork similar to shootfighting and the Bac Loong Gar syllabus includes this in the SanShou Kickboxing as well as in the Wing Chun at the higher levels.
Assistant Instructor Elaine Denny 5th degree Bac Loong Gar
San Shou Chinese Kickboxing
This style of kickboxing was developed by Bob Denny. It is a combination of American kickboxing, Lau Gar, Wing Chun and techniques used in Bob's earlier days of competition fighting which are not now generally taught. The style has no sets or katas, but because it is based on traditional techniques, low kicks are allowed. It is excellent for stamina building and proves a good all round work-out.
Sparring commences at orange belt (3rd grade), allowing the student's confidence to build, and padwork is also practised. Throws and grappling are introduced at brown belt by which time students have learned how to fall safely. The style is easy to learn and techniques are combined at a quick pace, producing an excellent self defence and fitness system.
Bob practising the three section staff
Tai Chi and Chi Kung
Chi Kung is the art of developing vital energy by movement and meditation with breathing exercises. It is relaxing and beneficial for everyone and clears the mind from stress and also helps to improve ailments. Tai Chi uses this energy by distribution and movement around the body to promote physical well-being and discard negative energy away from the body. There are various forms in Tai Chi and different styles are practised such as Sun, Chen, Yang and Wu. They are all beneficial to health and promote the same ideals. Bac Loong Gar teaches all the styles of Tai Chi, but not necessarily at the same time. Tai Chi is a soft or internal martial art, however sword and applications for use in sparring may be taught to those who wish it. Bac Loong Gar also teaches yoga for flexibility prior to the Chi Kung class, but students not wishing to participate may still practise the Chi Kung and Tai Chi separately. Many students end these sessions feeling on a 'high', and yet are totally relaxed and sleep better at night.
