Weapons Training

One of the most impressive aspects of Chinese martial arts are the many different types of weapons which are used in 'forms' (kuen).

In the CHOY LI FUT/TSAI LI FO school this is also widely practised. The weapons vary from simple Wooden Staff to 2 metre Steel Chain to Double Broadsword and much, much more.

Some of the weapons come from Military history and others come more from an agricultural background, developed through the centuries by peasant farmers defending their homes against attacking bandits.

Although some of the weapons are very heavy, long and difficult to master, like the Battle Ax, the 3 Section Staff and the Kwantoh or Halberd. Other weapons are light, fast and more developed for close quarters. These include Dragon Fan, Finger-ring blades, and various Knife styles. Then there are other weapons which are very fast and also versatile for close or long range. These include the Spear, the Chain and Broadsword.

So, as you can see, the student of Chinese Kung Fu/Wushu has many choices of 'speciality' to learn. It is normal to begin weapon training once the new student has learned some basic "unweaponed" forms and has thus developed a little control already. The student will usually begin weapon training with simple Staff work or by using a wooden sword. Later, of course, the student will move on to Steel weapons when the control has been further developed. Eventually, a student of many years will develop the ability to use many 'everyday' objects around as 'makeshift' weapons as and when needed. This however takes great control, balance and skill which can only come through long, hard practise of the Arts.