Northern Shaolin

NorthernShaolin

The Northern Shaolin system is one of the traditional longfist systems of Chinese martial arts, or kung fu. Northern Shaolin is famous for dynamic kicking techniques, low stances, and the athleticism of its practitioners. Although the movements are learned in a long-range, elongated way, actual usage of the techniques involves quickly closing the distance to short-range with aggressive chains of attacks, breaking the opponent’s position, and leaving them vulnerable for throws, sweeps, and trips.

Northern Shaolin involves erratic, aggressive footwork to out-manoeuvre and unbalance the opponent, while low stances offer a stronger base for wrestling and throws and provide power and position for striking. The system is often recognised as the basis for the choreography of the firebending style from the 2005 animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Northern Shaolin is believed to have originated in the region of the Shaolin temple in Henan, China as a system developed by monks and military staying at the temple. It spread from the temple and then became famous when taught in its current form by Gù Rŭzhāng, famous for his iron palm techniques, who was invited to teach in Southern China after doing well in competition in the North. His students and disciples then spread around the world.

Curriculum

Like most traditional kung fu styles, the teachings have been transmitted through “sets”, or “forms”, of choreographed movement patterns. These patterns allow students to practice independently, improving their movement quality, their ability to connect techniques together, and their balance and position. These techniques are then deconstructed from their patterns in freeform “shadow boxing” type training, or in drills and sparring with partners.

The Northern Shaolin lineage as passed to Camilo includes classic longfist sets (12 Roads Tan Tuis, Lian Bu Chuan, Gong Li Chuan), the 10 classic Shaolin sets of Gù Rŭzhāng, and classical weapons forms, as well as a full curriculum of hard and soft qigong.

Known Northern Shaolin Lineage