Chow Gar is one of the original styles of Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu from China, which is modelled on the highly effective and unique movements of the 'praying mantis' insect.
This traditional martial art is a close-range system renowned for its strike speed, fluid movements, natural explosive power and effectiveness.
The natural body mechanics and efficient techniques of Praying Mantis Kung Fu, soon allows students to become proficient, regardless of age, physique or fitness.
Our training focuses on integrating a range of key elements; breathing, awareness, conditioning, sensitivity, relaxed movement, adaptation, dynamic power, positive mindset, technical expertise and martial ethics.
At the Chow Gar School of Kung Fu we are committed to assisting our students pursuit of potential and guiding them along the fulfilling journey of the martial arts.
About Chow Gar
Southern Praying Mantis
Kung Fu
Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu works on the centreline theory and generation of internal shock power which is predominantly delivered through fast multiple close-range hand techniques.
The main characteristics of the Chow Gar system are;
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techniques that attack and defend simultaneously
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continuous and fluid movement with fast connecting strikes
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'sticky hands' (Chi Sao) training for close range sensitivity development
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emphasis on conditioning and using the arms in an extended form, (like the Praying Mantis)
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generating relaxed power from a close distance
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development of strength, flexibility, and coordination
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fostering internal energy, concentration and all around physical health
Keith Curtis
Chief Instructor
Keith is the Chief Instructor (Sifu) of Chow Gar Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu School, New Zealand.
His martial art journey started in 1990 when he first began studying Praying Mantis Kung Fu. Dedicating his life to martial arts also meant exploring other styles, such as Tai Chi, Iaido, Aikido, while also experiencing many different dojos and schools, including a period of living and training in Japan.
Having devoted many years to learning and mastering the art's techniques, principles, and philosophies, Sifu Keith has unique and advanced knowledge of Kung Fu, which he is passionate about sharing.
This deep knowledge means he can adjust his teaching style and method to suit different students' needs, learning abilities, skill levels, and goals. While also inspiring his students to work hard, be disciplined, and strive for excellence.
Sifu Keith believes the most important lesson he can teach his students is role-modeling the values of martial arts, such as respect, humility, discipline, courage, and compassion.
History
Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu originated in the Southern China region approximately 300 years ago.
The system was likely created for close range empty hand conflicts, it is not focused on using weapons and the movements differ in appearance to that of the more familiar Shaolin Kung Fu style.
Despite its name, Southern Praying Mantis style is unrelated to Northen Praying Mantis. Southern Praying Mantis is instead related more closely to fellow Hakka styles such as Dragon and more distantly, White Crane and Wing Chun.
There are four main branches of Southern Praying Mantis:
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Chow Gar
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Chu Gar
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Kwong Sai Jook Lum
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Iron Ox
Chow Gar Southern Praying Mantis branch traces its art to c. 1800 to Chow Ah-Nam, a Hakka who as a boy left his home of Guangdong Province for medical treatment at the Southern Shaolin Monastery in Fujian Province, where he also received training in martial arts.
While at the Shaolin Monastery he happened to one day observe the effective and unique fighting movements of the praying mantis insect and it was from these observations that he drew his inspiration to base and develop his own Kung Fu style, Southern Praying Mantis.
“Empty your mind, be formless. You must be shapeless, formless, like water. When you pour water in a cup, it becomes the cup. When you pour water in a bottle, it becomes the bottle. When you pour water in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Now water can flow or it can crash. Be water my friend"
Bruce Lee
Training Times
Levin
Wellington Region
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Contact Us
We always welcome new or experienced martial art enthusiasts to our school. If you would like more information, or to arrange a visit, please contact us on the following.
Chief Instructor: Keith
Mobile: 0220344649
FAQs
How do I get started?
Just contact us stating you would like to arrange a visit. Then come along in some comfortable clothing like track-pants and a t-shirt, (no shoes required) and simply join in and experience for yourself. The training environment is friendly and welcoming, which includes providing a training experience appropriate to your level of expertise.
Do I need to be in shape or fit to join?
Not at all, training in designed around you and your level of fitness.
Am I too old to start a martial art?
Age is not a barrier to starting, or continuing martial art training.
Is Kung Fu difficult to learn?
No, Chow Gar Souther Praying Mantis Kung Fu is a martial art system that is known for delivering rapid technical proficiency and effectiveness, however it also has the benefit of continuing to challenge and involve continuous learning throughout ones life.
Do you train children?
We accept new students from 14yrs of age upwards.
What type of clothing is required for class ?
Casual athletic clothing, typically track-pants and a t-shirt, once a member you can transition into a Kung Fu training uniform.
What are some of the benefits I may expect to gain from training in Chow Gar Southern Praying Mantis?
The benefits are wide and vary individual to individual, however most students experience; increased mental focus, situational awareness, energy, confidence, calmness, coordination, flexibility, reflex, strength and personal pride and dignity.
Is Kung Fu tied to certain religious beliefs?
Some of the major styles of Kung Fu do have philosophical and religious roots or associations, typically influenced from Buddhism or Daoism. However this is not something taught or imposed on our students and is respected and left to individual choice .