Disciplines

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 workout 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, progressing to bo staff, broadsword, butterfly knives, trident, spear, three section staff and nunchakus.

Nigel Swatton, Assistant Instructor, 5th degree Bac Loong Gar

  Assistant Instructor, Elaine
  Denny 5th degree Bac Loong
  Gar

Wing Chun

Wing Chun is a short range style using hands and elbows, forearms and 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. This style is suitable for persons who have problems performing higher kicking techniques or who suffer arthritis in the knees. Blocks and attacks are often practised with the same arm and at speed. It is 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, extremely varied and best taught in class. They can be tricky to learn but the secret as in many martial arts, is to learn the moves slowly and gradually build up speed without losing technique. Weapons are taught, such as the butterfly knives, staff and escrima (although Filipino in origin are a variation of the Wing Chun weapons) and of course the wooden dummy forms. Wing Chun grappling and groundwork is also taught at the higher levels. This requires a lot of strength, control and consideration for the safety of the opponent in class.

Bob with three section staff

San Shou Chinese Kickboxing

This style of kickboxing was developed by Bob Denny. It consists of American kickboxing, Lau Gar, Wing Chun and techniques used in Bob’s earlier days of competition fighting which are not now usually taught. San Shou 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 to be a good all round work out.
Sparring commences at orange belt (3rd grade), in which time the student builds confidence and feels more settled. Focus mitts and kick shields are used to target punches and kicks. We also have a rubber man ‘bouncing Bob’ and a large Wavemaster kick bag, which are used as training aids. The children love these! Throws and grappling are introduced at brown belt and students are taught to fall safely on mats. San Shou is easy to learn and techniques are combined at a quick pace, producing an excellent self defence and fitness system

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