Southern Kung Fu (original) (raw)

SOUTHERN BOXING

Considering its popularity outside of China, there are far too few good books on the Southern family of boxing. These can include Hung Gar, Choy Lai Fut (each of which you can find under their separate categories), Crane Boxing, Dragon Boxing, Mok Gar and many others. These styles tend to be "short fist" although there are exceptions such as Choy Lai Fut. Stances are strong and internal and external exercises are often taught almost simultaneously.

Other Southern forms which might interest you...
Hung Gar, Wing Chun, Animal Boxing, Tiger Boxing

KP042 Pak Mei Kung Fu White Eyebrow
by H. B. Un
PLUM price $15.95, 80 pages, softbound, B & W photographs

Pak Mei White Eyebrow Kung Fu, by H. B. Un., is a forerunner in its field; certainly, the first book in English on this still hard-to-find subject. Written by Un, it highlights his teacher, Master Cheung Lai Chun, in step-by-step photos, demonstrating the first set of Pak Mei, Nine Step Push.

This book is set out in 80 pages, with an average of one photo per page. The photos are of varying quality**and are accompanied by english language instruction. In addition to the instruction, there are the more formal photos we come to expect in Kung Fu texts, of masters and disciples seated in front of school banners.

There is also a sturdy biographical section of Master Cheung, whose early classes hosted up to 1500 students. He also learned Choy style and the fierce Tiger style before following the well-known northern Praying Mantis founder, Wong Han Fun.

This text is broad and includes numerous stories of Kung Fu bullies. History also recounts “teaching tales,” and the background of many famous teachers’ relative defeats at the hands of Cheung. This book is a good example of relatively hard-to-find information on a style hundreds of years in the making.

I can't help but reiterate that some pages in the book are over-printed to the point of mud, making them difficult to understand what the figures are doing. The quality here is somewhere between good and squint. English for this section is clear and instructional, though. Apparently, this is not a factor of reprinting; the author and publisher made decisions in advance of the publication:

"After some deliberations, Mr H. B. Un and Mr P. H. Crompton decided that, although the photographs in existence of master Cheung were not of a high standard, and although some of them were missing, it was preferable to use photographs of the great master of Pak Mei, both in his honor as a master of Kung Fu, and so that students of Kung Fu should have a visual record of a man whose like is rapidly diminishing in the modern world. Some essential photographs have been taken of Mr H. B. Un to fill in the gaps. So it is without apologies that the following presentation of Kou Pou Teaw (Nine Step Push) is made. Master Cheung was 79 years of age when these photographs were taken."

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Sifu Paul Koh has just released a new series of books from his lineage of Fu Jow Pai, a Southern system that specializes—but is not limited to—Tiger Claw representation and energy. These books all feature full-page, full-color instruction, beautiful layout, and of course, a comprehensive approach to each subject. Below are the first 4 in the series, with more to follow. (Click each picture to look inside) Order 2 or more of these titles for 10% off (discount shown in shopping cart).

If you would like to know more about Sifu Koh, Fu Jow Pai, or how traditional Kung Fu is taught and studied today, Click Here for our exclusive Plum interview with Sifu Paul Koh.

New! KB031 Black Tiger Claw Single Saber
by Sifu Paul Koh
Reg $45.95, (Order any two of Sifu Koh's books for a 10% discount)
154 pages, English, Profuse full-color photos
(This book is oversized, too heavy for first class, so choose media or priority for domestic shipping)

Here’s another addition to Paul Koh’s special shelf.

The Saber, or Dao, is one of the weapons that offers solid function while still allowing dynamic and applaud-reaping perfomance. Being one of the grandparent weapons, it fulfills its wisdom status by teaching both weapon and open-handed lessons, having to do with rotation, planes, and 360 degree dimensionaltiy.

Sifu Paul Koh, as always, goes into great detail in his new book on the Single Saber. In this full-color presentation, he starts with basics, including those all-important hand grips, followed by those movements which give the saber its particular flavor.

A quite unique approach demonstrates the Saber against empty hand; this is a well-considered method for increasing awareness, allowing the practitioner to sense the opponent's perspective, to see what it was like on the “other shore.” We really like his new sections on 'outdoor practice,' where Koh Sifu shows strikes and blocks for this deadly knife.

Finally, the Saber pits against the Staff, demonstrating an expansive survey of applications.

The book, as always, is beautifully designed and laid out, making it a pleasure to explore its pages.

New! KT075 Tiger Claw Eight Diagram Longpole
by Sifu Paul Koh
Reg $45.95 (Order any two of Sifu Koh's books for a 10% discount)
184 pages, 8.5 X 11 inches, English, Profuse full-color photos
(This book is oversized, too heavy for first class, so choose media or priority for domestic shipping)

The Eight Diagram Long Pole in this newest volume from Sifu Paul Koh is another synthesis routine developed by Sifu Tak Wah Eng. These routines expertly incorporate traditional principles with modern movement.

This staff set consolidates all the key movements of the staff which, in some cases, derived from the original weapon —the spear — which often involved fatal engagements. In those cases, the spear head was removed, begetting the staff. This 'beheading' of the weapon was particularly associated with the Buddhist principles of the Shaolin Temple, which developed a sophistication of staff arts. This volume, along with its generous instruction, also gives some nice background on the history of the staff and its fundamental components.

As Sifu Koh writes: "The fingertip is the ultimate execution expression of the Tiger Claw. The tip of the pole will also be the ultimate expression of the long pole technique itself. This single-headed pole movement requires great accuracy in execution; every strike with a long pole will be to a specific target area. The target area is small sometimes, only a dot rather than the wide and wild swinging movements you may see in other weapons. The long pole requires you have that clear cut definition of accuracy in every strike."

As with all of Sifu Koh's books, the layout is rich and creative: full-color action shots, matched-set photos, and lots of clear usage are just some of the features alongside the main instruction. We also like to mention that the writing itself is very good, thoughtful with a depth not normally associated with martial arts literature of this kind.

Click image on right to read the Table of Contents

New! KT072 Ten Essential Techniques of the Tiger
by Sifu Paul Koh
Reg 64.95,PLUMINTRODUCTORYPRICE:64.95, PLUM INTRODUCTORY PRICE: 64.95,PLUMINTRODUCTORYPRICE:54.95
363 pages, English, Profuse full-color photos
(This book is oversized, too heavy for first class, so choose media or priority for domestic shipping)

It takes quite a bit of skill and thought to preserve a tradition while also advancing an art. I believe that Paul Koh’s work, specifically in this newest book, is what we have here, and on a number of levels.

For instance, the book’s wild color overlays in no substantial way detract from the fireworks, with his brilliant splash pages and full-colored costumes. Does this look compliment or complete the subject? We think both, and thus the motif becomes Tiger and fierceness.

At the same time, Sifu Koh delivers and matches a strong, positive commentary, not missing on the historical and philosophical topics. He is out there in the trenches, attempting — as we see it — the return of many crucial aspects promoting more actions; role fulfillment; key foundational movements that work together; and training cycles that emphasize basics before diving into the land of forms. In short, the original methods of training that begin with sectioned single moves, then attend to those all -important in between techniques to be repeated before taking on full-fledged forms — in other words, sections that help to perfect the classical form.

Paul Koh’s dream is ours.

Oh, yes, and since this is a book review…
The book is oversized, giving plenty of room for the large color photos, and allowing for generous individual instruction for all ten of the “key moves of the Tiger."

CLICK the Table of Contents to the right for more details.

KS067 Southern Shaolin Tiger Crane Matching Set
by Sifu Paul Koh
$39.95, 217 pages, English, Profuse full-color photos

"Iron bridge, bronze stance." This motto well sums up the strength of the Southern Branch of Kung Fu. It gives us an insight into Paul Koh's newest presentation "Tiger and Crane Matching Set." Matching, in this case, definitely does not mean linen.

The beginning retells legends of the union of Tiger and Crane systems into Tiger/Crane, a single style with core forms and both Southern and Northern roots, including weapons. This structure approaches the legacy of such famous instructors as Wong Fei Hong and Lam Sai Wing.

Nowadays the styles have evolved into a partnership of animals balanced such as Tiger and Crane, with Tiger as the foundational style. This allows the rest of the Five Shaolin animals— Dragon, Snake and Leopard — to own a place in the proceedings.

One unusual thing about this style is that the forms are not traditional, but the contents are. What I mean is that all movements here are absolutely correct Southern Boxing but the order of the movements are more recently rearranged. I've written before about my admirations of these forms and this newer/older technique.

This form — and the best way to start practicing — begins with the single person version. Once the Tiger Fist is familiarized, the single form is matched against a "B" side, pitted against the interface of both opponents. Attacks from either side rely on Hong's famous bridge and blocking hands. These are also fundamental in building Tiger/Crane power and proper structure.

The text section of the book discusses the fame of the style as well as offering anecdotes of famous teachers. Different costumes, single photos shots per breakdown, not to mention some antique pictures.

There are many ways in which paired boxing can help sharpen your style. But the truly exemplary is that two person sets allow you to practice with your style and its fine points retaining the flavor.

KS066 Southern Shaolin Tiger Claw Double Knives
by Sifu Paul Koh
$29.95, 116 pages, English, Profuse full-color photos

First, I LOVE Butterfly Knives. They are artistic while being completely functional.

This book is the result of years of training with these knives. One characteristic is the high degree of coordination involved in whipping two bladed weapons simultaneously. Since they are often pitted against longer weapons, the hand-over-hand continuous movement while marching toward the opponent must be mastered.

One of the things that I especially appreciate about this book, is that it opens with a well-told story of a young man learning the weapon, and his integration into American society. Although most practitioners are not lucky enough to have teachers who tell the stories for whatever reason, traditional Kung Fu is built of these tales, factual and otherwise. Sifu Koh has the gift of both having a teacher like this in Master Tak Wah Eng, and in also being able to recount the tales told.

Sifu Koh then presents the Postures and basics for the knives, followed by a section on their history and origins. He then demonstrates essential techniques — hand, finger, holding, and flipping — before detailing some offensive and defensive maneuvers.

Finally, he introduces, in full page photos, an authentic fighting set, created for him by Master Tak Wah Eng. This routine is not flowery because it is functional. We like that.

KS063 Southern Shaolin Five Element Fist
by Sifu Paul Koh
$29.95, 140 pages, English, Profuse full-color photos

Paul Koh's Southern Shaolin Five Element Fist is as dynamic a book as are his poses demonstrated inside. His dramatic style allows readers to get a good sense of the famous Shaolin poses, which is useful because it puts to rest the idea that each arm stretch may be just a slightly different shape in action. This book demonstrates how shape occupies space, itself. Shape is important, because when Shape is correct, Spirit expands.

Sifu Koh gives full instruction on the Five Element Fist in full-page color illustrations in a beautifully designed layout. Unlike most books these days, he spends good time discussing basics such as stances, the Five Element Theory itself, and a bit of history, also. Following the instruction, he has a section called “Five Aspects of the Body: External and Internal.”

With the inclusion of Chinese characters and Pinyin Cantonese, this text is a fine reference on the Five Element Fist.

KS064 Southern Shaolin Tiger Claw: Principles of the Tiger
by Sifu Paul Koh
$34.95, 189 pages, English, Profuse full-color photos

The Tiger represents the Yang of the Tiger/Crane duet. Sifu Koh has done a thorough job of cataloguing the various aspects of the Tiger in order to discuss the principles inherent in its moves and spirit. Through detailed photos, the Tiger comes alive in this excellent resource. To give a sense of the coverage, here is the Table of Contents:

Master on the mountain
Method of the Tiger
Power of the Tiger
Body of the Tiger
Mind of the Tiger
Spirit of the Tiger
Hard and soft power
Strikes of the Tiger
Tiger fist strikes
Tiger palm strikes
Tiger claw strikes
Stances and footwork of the Tiger
Southern Shaolin Tiger Claw: Principles of the Tiger

KS065 Southern Shaolin Immortal Crane Fist
by Sifu Paul Koh
$29.95, 155 pages, English, Profuse full-color photos

Much like the Principles of the Tiger text, Sifu Koh approaches the teaching of the Crane, not just with a form, The Immortal Crane, but with the qualities that make the Crane one of the animals held in high esteem both in Chinese culture and in its martial arts.

This book includes hand techniques of the Crane, crane punches, Crane wings, Crane beaks, Crane footwork, and power generation. In addition, there's a short discussion on the Five Animal Frolics, and the Five Animal Systems.

From the book: “The Immortal Crane Form portrayed in this book is a distillation of Grandmaster Paul Eng’s experience and knowledge about the techniques of the Crane, as passed down to him by his teachers. This unique interpretation and organization of the Immortal Crane Form has been meticulously laid out by Grandmaster Tak Wah Eng, imbuing his own unique approach and knowledge to take the form to another level.”

KF018 Fierce Tiger Iron Hammers
by Sifu Paul Koh
$24.95, 107 pages, English, Profuse full-color photos

This book is fully dedicated to Fierce Tiger Iron Hammers—also called Thunder Hammers—and to the rare Double Hammers Routine, a dramatic, medium length form. As with the other texts in Sifu Koh’s new series, the step-by-step instruction is presented in full-page, full-color photos.

Although this is evident throughout the series, one notices, with this weapon, the intensity not only of the moves themselves, but of the gaze of the performer. The hammers themselves are ancient weapons and Sifu Koh’s handling of them reflects his commitment to traditional Kung Fu.

KK015 Kong Han Goh Cho Kun
The Book II
by Sifu Daniel Kun
$34.95, 305 pages, English, good photography

Five Ancestors style claims a lifespan of at least 150 years and a wide range of weapons and styles from many sources. As a “short fist” fighting form, it is thoroughly conversant with those inspired skills. But even though Five Ancestors appears mostly as a short fist self defense style, the core of this fighting method was designed for military application. This spirit has been preserved and remains to this day. Here the powerful amalgam of five "influences" shows a pragmatic, day-to-day self defense offering, manifest in fast hands and serious weapons.

Applications abound, with grappling, kicking, disarming and control practices many and diverse. There is a heavy emphasis on functional usage, where applications rule and the forms reinforce. The practicality of Ngo Cho leads to some weapons that can be played either empty-handed or armed. The short dagger, for example, looks comfortable in the hands of a Five Ancestors practitioner.

Another famous weapon taught in this comprehensive book is the Sai. This is presented as a strong individual form and, besides this, a demonstration for two persons. Besides these distinctive Sai vs. Sai applications, the weapon is also pitted againt the Horse Cutting Knife. Then, if you know anything at all about Southern Kung Fu lineage, you will recognize the well known empty-hand form San Chien Sip Di, or the 3 Battles Cross Shape Form. This book and its predecessor form a compendium and curriculum enfolding the very core of Five Ancestors Kung Fu.

Training exercises are shown with clear and very simple instruction, but true to the style. Even before we get to the sophisticated strikes and counters, there are a number of sections dispaying strong and direct application.

Oh, yes, when you've reviewed as many texts as we have you become thankful for things like good photography. I take this book as an opportunity to point out a particularly good photographic presentation. Some color, high contrast, a keen clarity.

See Volume 1

New! KW045 The Way of Ngo Cho Kun Kung Fu
Translated & edited by Alexander Co
Under supervision of Master Tan Kan Hong
200 pages, photographs and illustrations
English, with Chinese accompanying most text.
First published in 1983 21.95PLUMprice21.95 PLUM price 21.95PLUMprice19.75

This reprint— divided into three parts—makes this formerly out-of-print text available for modern readers.

1. History
2. Techniques
3. “Lian Kong Wat” Power Training Exercises

Background: As part of the history section, this book mentions successful bouts between Chua Giok Beng, the founder of the Ngo Cho style, and the challengers he had to face. As time passed, this style travelled to the Phillippines, broadcasting this new art and leaving a strong heritage, even to present day.

The Techniques: Before laying bare its martial skills, the Techniques section is prefaced by a special “power exercise,” part Qigong and part strengthening. Next stances, then hands strikes are shown, with a wide range from a quick jab to dropping to the ground “Dog Boxing.”

The form presented, Sam Chien, is clearly described and foundational for this art. An applications section follows. A final section devotes itself to weapons and training equipment. Especially interesting is the Chipo Sou, similar to a kettle bell, and—along with a large variety of weapons and striking equipment—is used for strength training and Chin Na grappling.

Want a complete survey and text on Five Ancestors style, or Southern Boxing in general? Here’s a strong contender.

Background information on this style .

New! KQ005 QuanZhou TaiZuQuan
The Art of Fujian Emperor Fist Kung Fu
Zhou Kun Min
241 pages, English, photographs, oversized book
reg 32.95Plumprice:32.95 Plum price: 32.95Plumprice:29.95

The subject is Tai Zu, a style named after an emperor. This author has trained with well-known masters including Dai Huo Yan, Lin Qi Yan and Lin Du Ying. Having a long career, Mr. Zhou has served as appointed Chairman of the QuanZhou City Wushu Association and a number of other related seats.

When a book is this thorough about its subject matter, it is difficult to boil it back to a 300 word description. But let's at least start by naming with the Tai Zu (Great Founder), Zhao Kuan Yu, the martial artist who started the Song dynasty.

The book does a good job of portraying the evolution of Great Ancestor Boxing, a colorful journey telling of constant study and battlefield experiences. The history section helps fill in Tai Zu’s framework, adding three representative forms and a rich discussion on Tai Zu tactics. Later sections attempt an honest presentation of those strategies that make Tai Zu tick.

The text is further enhanced by including key historical information; for instance, the texture of Minan culture and its connections with Taiwan. Then, there’s high interest in Quang Zhou city, acknowledged to be the birthplace of southern Shaolin.

We see in the applications section that Tai Zu, structurally similar to other significant Southern styles, has many movements as interchangeable as Lego blocks. Actions that are introduced here pop up there, and are tremendously consistent. This might be, in part, from the military influence of Zhao Kuan Yu and his famous general, Yu Da You.

From its reputation as a major style with a long military past, Tai Zu has stayed rooted in the people for 1000 years. Tai Zu is one of those few styles that embraces hard (yang) power and meets attacks directly and precisely.

Restocked! KP020 Pak Mei Kung Fu: The Myth & The Martial Art
by S.L. Fung
$32.00

This engaging book contains little technical information on the famous Kung Fu style of White Eyebrow (Pak Mei) Boxing but it is one of the most thorough presentations of Chinese martial/historical research we've read. In taking on all the details of a particular style, Fung, grapples with legends, myths, propaganda, stories and even facts. The Pak Mei style is transformed into a pilgrim wandering here and there, popping up in mysterious places, evading persecution while always keeping faithful to the core mission. Pak Mei, the legendary originator of the style, has always been portrayed as the traitor responsible for burning down the Shaolin Temple. Fung challenges this version and supplies an intriguing account of Pak Mei style passed from hand to hand like a code, until the beginning of the 20th century.

This is exemplified in a little passage of code-talk between two members of a secret society meeting for the first time:

A: Where were you born?
B: I was born under a peach tree.
A: When were you born?
B: On the 25th day of the 7th moon of the Kap Yan year.
A: Can you count?
B: Yes.
A: What is 3 times 8?
B: 21
A: Why is your face so pale?
B: My face may be pale, but my heart is red.

We won't give the whole cypher away but in the last line "my heart is red" means that my heart is HUNG.

This book includes sections on lineage, history, the Shaolin temple, philosophical theory as it pertains to Pak Mei, and more...

From the back cover...

"The origins of Pak Mei Kung Fu have typically been cloaked in a widely-held understood silence, partially due to the lack of verifiable information and partly due to a desire to defend a folkloric, romantic notion. As with many Southern Chinese martial arts, there is an oral tradition preserving the mythology, methodology, and ethics of this martial method. Conversely, an actual and unquestionable history exists pertaining to the chronicles of this system's genesis, formulation, and global migration. White Eyebrow Kung Fu, the literal translation of this combative system, was first introduced to the martial world of Guangdong Province, China during the early part of the 20th Century by Master Cheung Lai Chuen. Considered the modern-day founder of this fighting art, Cheung Lai Chuen drew upon his collective combative experiences to formulate a comprehensive system of effective and efficient fighting methods. This book provides the reader with an unadulterated presentation of both sides of the same coin: the fiction and the facts that shaped the history of what is known today as Pak Mei Kung Fu."

Unusual item! KH018 300 Years of Hakka Kung Fu
Hing Chao, Jeffrey Shaw & Sarah Kenderdine
regularly 42.95Plumprice42.95 Plum price 42.95Plumprice37.95, 243 pages, hardback, Chinese (traditional) /English

This is a special kind of book: a scholar's book, a collector's book, a lineage-holder's record. This is NOT a training text. It is also a catalogue of a special exhibition on 300 years of Hakka Kung Fu, held in Hong Kong. This beautifully bound hardback edition acquaints us with the Hakka people, "The nomads of China."

Taken for the record it is meant to be, this is an extraordinary compilation. The photos of the teachers are done with intensity; the stories of their martial associations cross all the borders—family, social, traditional. Most of these masters have 10 or fewer students at this point in time. And this scholarly work draws from each of them their tightly bound relation to lifelong practice. If you are not interested, or are completely unfamiliar with these styles, I urge you NOT to buy this book. But if you know something about Hakka boxing technique, and want to expose yourself to its stories, dreams and heritage coming from a people famous for mathematics, astrology and storytelling, this will be a text you will return to over and over.

For a showing of the captured movement study that was part of the original exhibit, see below.

Click to read some customer reviews of this well-received book

It's Back!! KP007 Phoenix-Eye Fist
A Shaolin Fighting art of Southern China
Tjoa Khek Kiong & Donn Draeger
21.95,PLUMprice21.95, PLUM price 21.95,PLUMprice17.95 152 pages,

The first book in English on the centuries-old Phoenix-Eye Fist style of Kung Fu. A short arm, independent system within Shaolin, Phoenix-Eye resembles White Eyebrow in its compactness and no-nonsense self defense approach. Developed by two sisters, Chu Gar (Chu being the family's name) is not only respected as a fighting art but often associated with royal families especially of the Hakka minority lineage. This volume provides a thorough introduction to every aspect of this fascinating art. Clearly written with nice layout, much background and cultural theory and more than 600 photos, this book is an invaluable manual for learning and understanding this remarkable fighting art.

This text, taken from an original native source, bears the stamp of Donn Draeger and Chambers work. Done with pride and concern for the material this is one of the first authentic books on Kung Fu ever written in English. Draeger deserves our respect as demonstrating a kind of genius for preserving the intent and the organic integrity of each martial art he tried to record. A good book. NOTE: There is another edition of this easily available but we don't think it is a better version, just different. NOTE #2: We know the subtitle claims it is a style from Northern China but its structure is so obviously Short Arm it has been considered as a Southern style for a long time.

More about this style...

New! KK011 Kong Han Ngo Cho
Forms • Weapons• Fighting
Henry Lo and Daniel Kun
reg 39.95Plumprice:39.95 Plum price: 39.95Plumprice:34.95, 468 pages, English

Ngo Cho Kun, more commonly known as Five Ancestors Boxing (WuZu Kun,) is the official style of the Southern Shaolin Temple. This book thoroughly documents this famous style of Southern Fist. It includes empty hand techniques, internal organ Qigong, solo forms, partner forms, training sets, fighting applications, weapons forms and full-contact training.

If you are unfamiliar with Chinese history you may not know that the Southern region was radical and revolutionary. Clashes with the Manchu army, pirates, thieves and gangsters, all appear in a time and place where fighting—even empty-handed against guns—was not optional. This is a style that has been tested many times. It specializes in short, two-person mini-forms with a concentration in hands-on. practice. Fighting centers on building a technique vocabularly with interchangeable positions that can be recombined instantly. This book is a huge catalog of most of WuZu's foundational movements, especially those partner forms.

Henry Lo’s father was Grandmaster Dr. Lo King Hui, and his grandfather, Lo YanChiu was the founder of the Kong Han Martial Arts Club.. Looking in this text I find over 1300 photos, a complete training from white to black belt, and lots of the short usage patterns. These patterns are at the heart of this style and it shows this through the consistency of the moves. What you learn at level one is clear and concise and trains all the way up to the highest hand and weapons forms.

One of the most thorough collections of any style I have seen, all in one book. Without an instructor you might not catch every fine point but I have to elect this copious presentation as one of those books you can treat like an instructor. If you have little or no Kung Fu then southern styles like this are worth checking out.

Two versions of Five Ancestors Boxing

Giok-Beng’s Five are

Grand Ancestor: Taizu

Monkey King Boxing
Arhat Boxing
White Crane Fist
Bodhidharma Boxing

And Li ZunLin's version

Ming Ancestor Boxing

Monkey Boxing
Wing Chun style (location) White Crane
Arhat Boxing
Bodhidharma Boxing

See Volume 2

KN006 Ngo Cho:
Southern Shaolin Five Ancestor Kung Fu
by Jose G. Paman

This new book adds valuable information to the knowledge we have of Five Ancestors style. As in the case of many great Southern styles the popularity of Ngo Cho is strong but highly concentrated. In the Philippines, for example, it is well known and highly respected as it is in some parts of Southern China. The combination of five styles is well surveyed by author Panam. Basics, which are essential in this system, are shown along with techniques and two important forms Three Battles and, for the first time, Double Banner Boxing. The author knows his stuff having taught this style for over thirty years. If you are interested in Five Ancestors or just Southern Kung Fu this is an important work. In addition it gives additional and strong information for the historical roots of Karate which now, it is apparent, was highly influenced by Fukien Kung Fu.

Background information on this style . See the DVD of this Kung Fu.
save 10+% for buying the text and DVD together, only $41.95

Back again! KD016 Dragon Form Fist
Leo Chu & Francis Au
$14.95, 64 pages, Chinese (traditional) /English

A number of these great little books started to come out in the BLE (Bruce Lee Era).Then they became unavailable for a long time. Now PLUM is bringing them back. This form, possibly from a branch of Choy Li Fut, we called a Southern Style Dragon Fist but it is really more a "middle" boxing. This book has the following: 64 pages, Large photos of the Dragon form, small photos at the bottom of applications for the movements, Chinese and English facing text and a picture of the author playing with the famous Shek Kin at the back. Though it looks like a paste up job from a Kung Fu magazine article; this is one of those fun, learn-a-form-in-an-afternoon type books. But neat.

See other forms and DVDs of Dragon Boxing

KW042 Wing Chun Kung Fu Bamboo and Iron
Jook Wan Huen & Tin Heun Ring Method
by Tyler Rea
normally 19.95,PLUMprice19.95, PLUM price 19.95,PLUMprice17.95, 175 pages, softbound, illustrations, photographs,

**OUT OF STOCK! Please place me on your WANT LIST for this item.

I admit it: I love to design things, though my skill level at materializing my ideas is so deficient that being all thumbs would be a promotion. This exasperating limitation condemns masses of unrealized inventions to line the bottom of banker's boxes all over my garage. I feel an affinity for the guy who wanted to create a new soft drink but stopped at "6 Up."

Tyler Rea's new book has lots and lots of things to build and then—after you have built them—you can go ahead and hit them (assuming, of course, you are a better builder than I.) He first presents Jongs (wooden men) constructed from relatively inexpensive PVC, most them anchored by bench press plates. He shows us a number of special variations, including one customized to stick-fighting. Then there is the weight pipe training device, very economical and simple, a short length of PVC with 2 caps glued on. Next comes an old favorite, the metal rings, which I think of as a superb training device. Following are instruments such as weight-clubs standing in as butterfly knives. Finally, there is a section on freehand fa jin exercises from the mantis style. The illustrations in this book are plentiful with the line drawings being crisp and clear, in contrast to the photos, many of which are muddy.

While construction plans are not highly detailed, most of these are so straightforward you should be able to assemble anything here easily.

Then, maybe, you could lend me a hand...

NEW! KB022 The Bible of Ngo Cho Kun
regular price 29.95,PLUMprice29.95, PLUM price 29.95,PLUMprice24.50, 244 pages, photographs, oversized

First published in 1917 by Yu Chiok Sam (a member of the Ten Ngo Tigers), this book has been the treasured keepsake of lineage holders for almost a century. Yu was a disciple of Chua Giok Beng, the founder of Five Ancestors. Originally produced with a limited print run, this text has been unavailable for over 90 years!

This is an obvious must-have for long-time practitioners. One special feature of this book, and many Southern styles, is that the movements are so precise and specific you can almost just list the actions and learn the sequence. For instance, 38 forms (Roads) are listed in this book, along with their respective 'home styles'. The fundamental movements of the system are first described and illustrated in Section 1, then compiled in each of the short sets themselves in Section 3. Many Ngo Cho branches have fewer sets than this book contains, so "the Bible" is the only book containing these missing sets. In that sense, it is more than a text, but a manual and historic record.

In addition to the Forms, there is a section of 48 "impromptu movement methods," with some good descriptions of ground fighting (although, note that there are no pictures on this section.) There are also numerous little sections on the history, personalities and special traits of Five Ancestors Boxing. The applications against opponents are described rather than shown; still this re-issued text is a collector's prize.

KN009 Ngo Cho Kun Kung-Fu
Beng Hong 15th Anniversary Publication
regular price 11.95,PLUMprice11.95, PLUM price 11.95,PLUMprice10.25, 79 pages, photographs, oversized

This publication commemorates the 15th year of the American Beng Hong Athletic Association of Orthodox Ngo Chu Kun. It reprints articles by Mark Wiley and Alexander Co, and lets us peep through the keyhole to get some idea of the real workings of this famous Southern form of boxing. Among other topics are comments by other instructors, a history of Ngo Cho Kun, a note about the banner, a 15 year retrospective, some of the officers of the Beng Hong, the Gwoon, a little about Di Da Jiu, and numerous article reprints from popular martial magazines. Further information includes the Ngo Cho Kun distance learning program and discussion of the style's future.

KC029 Choi (Tsai)-Mok boxing Southern Shaolin -
By Lau Biu
learn about Mok Gar
$24.95 192 pages, photographs, softbound

Choi Mok as derived from old sifu, Liu Shi Zhong (Lau Sze Chung), is a Southern Shaolin system. This book is a no nonsense exposition on the family hybrid styles, the cross between Choi and Mok (Mandarin: Cai & Mo). The majority of the book is devoted to APPLICATIONS. It's an excellent introduction to the style because it shows so many phases of person-to-person training. One of the early sections show quite a few different Bridge exercises (partners crossing their forearms against one another). The Southern blocking exercises and positions are strong and flavorful with the typical Southern "sunken bridge" predominating. The style utilizes many finger strikes and many of the movements look like Wing Chun or Southern mantis done with dynamic stances. Next are clawing movements, locking moves and the famous kicking motions associated with Mo style. There is even a section on the principles of the style applied to weapons such as staff and umbrella.

Monkey Strike Road Number One, a very short, very basic Choi Mok form is shown. To say our supply is limited is an understatement. Note: We were happy to offer this rare style in Chinese but now we have a supply of the same text in English.

KS025 The Shooting Star of Hung Family Fist
by Ho Lap Tim
$10.95, 179 pages, softbound, English/Chinese

Master Ho studied from Deng Fang a disciple of the famous Wong Fei Hung. From his deep study of Hung he has developed this version of the "Shooting Star Form" with correct and definite elements of the Tiger and the Crane arts. This is perfectly permissible within traditional lineage as SiFu Ho has created a beautiful and obviously completely classical form that retains Hung's "flavor" while giving a new emphasis to certain combinations. The entire form encompasses 86 postures and has key elements from not only the Tiger/Crane but the 5 Element and Ten Animal forms of Hung Family Fist. Once again proof that the traditional methods can be flexible, beautiful and creative.

The illustrations in this text are of Sifu Ho himself performing all postures for the "Shooting Star Fist".

KS017 Shaolin 10 Animal Form
by Kwan Tak Hing & Leung Ting
$19.95, English, 208 pages, softbound,

Printed in Hong Kong this book shows the form and skills of the Southern Shaolin Ten Animals. This is shown by noted Kung Fu movie actor and martial enthusiast Kwan Tak Hing. Mr. Kwan is a famous movie actor from the longest series of Kung Fu films ever made, those devoted to Wong Fei Hong the master of the Tiger/Crane style. He initially received his training from Southern master, Sun Pak.

This is a well done book produced with the help of Leung Ting, noted Wing Chun teacher. The movements of this Southern Style form include ground rolling and many sophisticated hand actions. Each animal is shown with some application and introductory comments on the nature of the different style:

Dragon Tiger Snake Leopard Crane

Lion Elephant Horse Monkey Bear

Not as common as its Northern cousin, Southern Shaolin Fist is a key style in those styles of Kung Fu such as Fut Gar, Choy Lee Fut and Hung Fist. This is a good introduction to one of the best known forms.

KH004 Hung Gar: Southern Shaolin Kung Fu Ling Nam
by Kwong Wing Lam
$29.95, 240 pages, softbound, photographs

"Never before have the secret oral teachings of the Hung Gar style appeared in English. Sifu Wing Lam, who traces his Hung Gar lineage to the Southern Shaolin Temple of the 1700s, transforms "back room" teachings into clear and concise how-to instructions. This is the complete Hung Gar book that martial students have been waiting for:

• Learn about the 300-year history of Hung Gar through recent findings and colorful stories about Hung Gar Masters and traditions.
• Study the underlying principles of Hung Gar and their sets: The Twelve Bridges, The Five Animals and the Five Elements.
• Explore the finer points of Hung Gar basics.
• Acquire applications and techniques such as blocks, arm locks, take downs, chops, strikes and footwork.
• Learn about traditional conditioning exercises and injury treatment.
• Examine the details of Hung Gar hand and weapon sets.
• Learn about Internal Training using the Iron Wire set.

Whether you are curious as to how Hung Gar differs from other styles, are a beginning Hung Gar student, or have practiced for many years, this book will add to your understanding of the Hung Gar style."

This is a catalogue of the Hung system. There is no form shown in its entirety. Rather, this is an overview of the entire system including some interesting notes on Kung Fu medicine. Also included are some good notes on Southern "Ling Nam" Kung Fu; many historical photographs and salient anecdotes about masters and grand masters.

TC 203 Dragon Fist Rubbing Bridge
Lung Ying Mor Kiu
by Chow Fook & C S Tang
$27.95, Traditional Chinese Characters and English, 255 Pages Hardbound,

This is a rare book on the Southern Style of Dragon Style Fist. Some of this is in ENGLISH, most notably the instructions accompanying the form, and an incomplete introduction to Chow Fook. Among other sections those in Chinese cover: lineage, history of the Dragon Style, Key points and characteristics of the style, Details of the form Lung Ying Mor Kiu and information on the Founder and Lam Yiu Kwai, famous boxer. The co-author is C. S. Tang, a noted Bagua practitioner and student of Liu JingRu.