History of Shaolin Kung Fu

Shaolin Kung Fu isone of the oldest institutionalized forms of martial arts in the world, and has been around since around 500 AD. It was conceived and cultivated at the Shaolin Temple which is in the central north-east region of China today. Its peaceful perspective of self-defence first combined with the spiritual teachings of Zen philosophy is what makes it truly unique.

In the 1300s, the Shaolin Monks helped to keep the peace by training Shaolin Warriors who joined the militia. At the highlight of the Shaolin militia, there were over 2000 Shaolin Warriors. Although not necessarily Shaolin Monks, these warriors were adept at pugilistic self-defense and weaponry.

By the 1500s, a new government took power and disbanded the Shaolin Warriors. It was at this time that likely these Shaolin Warriors took on their own disciples and passed on their teachings, resulting in many forms of Shaolin martial arts today.

The traditional lineage of Shaolin Kung Fu continues through Master Guo Song and his disciple Master Chang Dao in Canada today.