What is Kungfu?
Kungfu or Kongfu is the name given to the ancient system of physical and mental self-cultivation, popularized but such movie stars as Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and Jet Li. Learning kungfu not only improves your physical status but may also provide sharper mental focus. Many people learn kungfu as a viable method of self-defense, weight loss and confidence.

What is the difference between Kungfu and Tai Chi?
Chinese martial arts are split into two distinct families, these being "Internal" and "External". Internal styles are classified by their 'soft' approach, with emphasis on energy absorption and very sophisticated power generation techniques. External styles such as Shaolin or Long fist emphasize physical conditioning of the body combined with extensive move-sets.

Am I too old to learn Chinese martial arts?
The simple answer is "no". You are never to old to begin learning to improve yourselves, whether you are a child or a pensioner, Chinese martial arts have much to offer in terms of physical fitness and mental clarity to people of all ages.

What styles do you teach?
The Institute provides world-class Chen style Tai-Chi training, with Grandmaster Gou heading many of the classes personally. We also provide competitive Sanshou training as well traditional styles such as Long fist, 5 stance style and many others. Each class is taught by a qualified instructor with a specialized area of expertise.

How long before I get my blackbelt?
Unlike most other martial arts, Chinese styles do not emphasize belt colour. Ask a Chinese master what belt he is and the answer is likely to be "I use a belt to hold up my trousers, the colour matters not". In order to teach a high level of proficiency, the OTGI recommend training at least 2 times a week.

Do you spar?
In the beginners and foundation classes, sparring is not taught. The earlier classes focus on the perfection of the basic techniques. Only when a student has satisfied those requirements will he/she then be allowed to 'graduate' into the advanced classes, where sparring is a core training tool.

Do you hold seminars?
Yes, our classes operate on the following principle, that students learn the physical movements during class. Every month, a special seminar will be taught, allowing the students to understand not only the applications of those techniques but the principles behind them.

Can I come in and watch?
The institute welcomes new students anytime, however we would prefer that you join in a class, as it is a far more accurate indication of whether you will like it or not.

Do you participate in competitions?
Yes, in fact a number of our instructors are champions on both a national and an international level. Students are encouraged to work to the level where they may be considered to join our various teams. Please see below for an explanation on our teams.

Our teams:
We have many dedicated teams, such as the performance team who specialize in forms, lion dancing and choreography. We also have the Sanshou team, who compete on the tournament circuit. To be considered for the teams one must demonstrate first a dedication to the art as well as proper respect for all members of the institute.

This FAQ is still in development, however should you require more information, please email info@mastergou.co.uk