Weapons of Yau Kung Mun

Yau Kung Mun, being a traditional Southern Siu Lum system, has a wide variety of weapons sets.

As an example of some of our sets, we have three staff sets teaching three different types of staff - double ended, long and medium lengths. We have single and double broadsword sets, double dagger sets, butterfly knife sets (similar in size to the Wing Chun knife, not the balisong), trident, horse bench, spear and three sectional staff forms.

Some question the utility of training with traditional weapons (who carries a three section staff in their back pocket?). I feel there are many reasons to train with traditional weapons.

One is that the usage of differing weapons builds a fighters attributes - strength, fluidity, stability. Swinging a large heavy weapon such as the Trident or a kwan do (not the lightweight versions ala wu shu) will quickly tell you whether you are rooting in your stances, as well as utilizing all the upper body muscles dynamically.

A second reason is for the retention of historical techniques. Look at the popularity of Renaissance Fairs and re-enactments - this is a way to touch with the past in a fun, healthy way.

A third reason is to learn the principles of the weapons (not just a form or technique) and apply then to common every day items (brooms, tire irons, pens, etc).

Historically, I feel that weapons usage was probably taught first, then empty hand skills (similar to modern day military usage - all learn to shoot firearms as the primary skill, hand to hand is lower on the priority). When Martial Arts became civilianized, the shift occurred to empty hand skills, character development, and weapons usage declined (as well as being outlawed in many countries). Also historically, time was limited for 'fitness' training, and weapons allowed for a way to train fitness and skill that directly related to fighting.

Feel free to comment and let me know what you think.

Great Wing Chun link for you

China Boxer

Here is a site that seems to have a great amount of detail and information on Wing Chun.

Definitely worth a look for southern stylists.

Hakka Kuntao

Sifu Amon’s Phoenix Eye Fist

A friend who has been talking with me about the Kuntao of "Uncle" Willem DeThouars sent me the following link.

Hakka Kuntao



Pretty good article, makes me want to learn even more.

Firearms Link

Here's a blog with a great title - "The Thinking Gunfighter".

Looks like some good information for those who intend to use firearms for defense.




(I just like the photo, nothing to do with the post.)

Five circles of preparedness

From the Surviving in Argentina blog - http://ferfal.blogspot.com/2010/04/five-circles-of-preparedness.html.

He describes the preparedness mindset much like martial artists discuss ranges - from the immediate, 'deal with it now' range to the longer range (but still life threatening), take a breath and cope (prepare) range.

I like to think of martial arts as being a micro version of the real world - the strategies/principles we use for protecting ourselves are the same, only the tactics and techniques change. And when things go south, fancy moves rarely help - simple, proven methods are preferred.

Preparedness Link

Preparedness Lifestyle vs Preparedness Event - http://mail.myptsmail.com/mercop/blog/?p=617

"Preparedness is like physical fitness, the little things you do every day matter more than the big things you do once in a while."

A little workout every day beats one long workout rarely. A journey of a thousand steps begins with one step, repeated.

From Ikigai - Blogging the martial way

"Everybody has to decide for themselves what they are willing to risk to defend themselves, their loved ones, and complete strangers. But it’s wise to understand the possible ramifications of relying solely on others for that protection."

Wise words from Ikigai - http://www.ikigaiway.com/2010/the-perpetual-need-for-self-defense/

Words that apply to all of life - don't wait around for someone else to do what you should be doing for yourself.

And a belated Gung Hay Fat Choy to everyone.