As mentioned earlier, my training was more in the traditional style. I was trained with emphasis on strength with body and mind conditioning. My brother and I were trained as opposites, each according to our more natural or instinctive ways. As we grew older this developed into a strong bond between us, even though trained as opposites, instead of clashing with each other we balanced each other out, forming the perfect balance between the yin and yang. This has definitely given us both the edge when it came to competitions, as my strengths are his weakness and visa versa.
We were trained in the Leong Cheung Family system. This is a combination of a Northern and a Southern style. Northern styles are characterized by long distance strikes and high kicks, while Southern styles are characterized by close combat fighting. The learning of the Leong Cheung family system requires three to four hours of practice a day. Many of the moves you learn seem or look easier than they really are. To execute this style effectively, requires lots of patience, time and practice, not forgetting loads of dedication!
My Shaolin training consisted of both indoor and outdoor exercise. The indoor was a conventional class type training, with emphasis on formwork, stretching and conventional free sparring. Outdoor activities were more strenuous and consisted of Shaolin wooden pole training techniques, such as the Plum Blossom poles, Monkey poles, float, high beams, Shaolin holes and tracking and alertness / awareness skills. This training is definitely tougher but gives you the edge when returning to the more conventional indoor training.
Other Martial Arts
I enjoy most martial arts but prefer the more traditional martial art styles, as for me, they seem more effective in real life situations. You can learn from any and every different style. I, personally, stick to the Chinese styles. To mix different styles like karate or tae kwon do with the Chinese arts I feel does not work. They tend to contradict one another too much. The difference in approach and philosophy could easily confuse you. Stick to one culture and channel your energies there. I’ve been fortunate in being taught by some top and well-respected masters, especially at the Shangdong Wu Shu institute. My advice to anyone wanting to do a martial art is to do research on the school you intend joining. Make sure they know what they are doing. Unfortunately, there are many frauds around, doing more damage than good.
School of instruction
I run the Randburg Shaolin Martial Art Centre. The branch in Randburg has been running since January 1998. Previously I ran a branch in Parkmore, Sandton (1990 to 1998). Before that I taught at our head office (1984 to 1990)
Students
Students at the Shaolin martial art centers should be aware, from the time that they start, that we run a school of discipline, it is an art and a way of life, which requires hard work and dedication. People come here to learn and train in what kung fu has to offer.