Kung Fu, also known as Gong Fu, is a term used to describe a wide range of Chinese martial arts that encompass various fighting styles, philosophies, and techniques. It is a comprehensive system that includes both physical movements and mental discipline. Kung Fu is known for its fluid, graceful movements that integrate hard and soft techniques, emphasising balance, flexibility, and the use of both internal and external energy. Unlike many martial arts that focus on one specific method of fighting, Kung Fu includes various styles, such as Shaolin, Wing Chun, Tai Chi, and Hung Gar, each with unique philosophies, forms (kata), and fighting strategies. What makes Kung Fu stand out is the variety of techniques and the deep integration of cultural traditions, philosophy, and self-cultivation. Many Kung Fu styles also include the practice of traditional weapons and animal movements that mimic the characteristics of animals like the crane, tiger, and snake.

Kung Fu's roots trace back to ancient China, where it developed over thousands of years, influenced by Chinese philosophy, particularly Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. It is believed that the earliest forms of Chinese martial arts were developed for self-defence and military purposes but also played a role in cultivating physical fitness, mental discipline, and spiritual well-being. One of the most significant influences on Kung Fu was the Shaolin Temple, where the monks are said to have developed martial arts as part of their meditation and self-defence training. Over time, Kung Fu spread across China and developed into various regional styles, each incorporating elements specific to the region’s culture and natural environment. In the early 20th century, Kung Fu faced a decline due to the influence of Western boxing and other forms of martial arts but experienced a resurgence in the 1950s and 1960s with the rise of martial arts cinema, especially through films starring Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan. Today, Kung Fu is practised worldwide, blending traditional techniques with modern applications.

Kung Fu competitions generally focus on two main aspects: forms (taolu) and sparring (san shou or san da). In forms competitions, practitioners perform a series of pre-arranged movements (known as forms or kata) that demonstrate their technique, fluidity, balance, and control. Forms are often inspired by animal movements or traditional weapons, and competitors are judged based on their precision, speed, and the overall presentation of the form. In sparring competitions, participants engage in a controlled fight where the goal is to score points by landing controlled strikes with the correct technique and form. Sparring in Kung Fu focuses on strategy, fluidity, and the ability to respond to an opponent’s movements, with an emphasis on controlling distance, timing, and rhythm. There are different rules for sparring depending on the style of Kung Fu, but competitors are usually judged on the effectiveness of their strikes and overall control during the match. Kung Fu competitions can be seen at various levels, from local tournaments to international events, where competitors showcase their skills in both traditional forms and full-contact sparring.