<p>Kung Fu could be loosely defined as containing a multitude of Chinese martial arts. The style is most widely known for the many movements derived from mimicking the motions of animals. The word Kung Fu was first used by a western Jesuit Missionary named Pere Amoit after witnessing some exercises and a training regimen in China. He called it “Cong Fou” in his personal journals. (Some may be familiar with the word “Wushu”, which is the preferred word to describe “Martial Arts” in China.) Kung-Fu means “skill” or “ability” accomplished through time and effort. It is also translated as “hard work” and is a great form of exercise that incorporates anaerobic and aerobic conditioning. The style has a great aesthetic appeal in that it incorporates wide stances, deep foundational movement and very large circular motion. Patterns of motion help the practitioner develop fortitude and these sets of motion are designated as forms, or “kuens” that the student practices. Of the martial arts classes we teach at Plus One Defense Systems in West Hartford, CT, Kung-Fu is one of the more popular.</p>