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First, be advised that all of these VCD's are IN CHINESE ONLY. In our opinion that doesn't matter much because the instruction is clear and the quality of photography very good. But we will not accept returns just because people didn't read... IN CHINESE ONLY. Given that, these are really tremendous deals for the money. Each of these special VCD's can be played on a computer for full enjoyment. Made for PC's they are also Mac compatible by downloading Quicktime (for free) and any similar VCD player program. Also playable on most DVD players. For less than $10.00? Wow! |
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GONG LI (Flowing Strength) Boxing To those who have been studying Chinese Martial Arts for a while, the set known as Gong Li Chuan is well known and invokes a traditional approach to movement. It is often substituted for Tan Tui and we remember a "pact", initiated by Brendan Lai many years ago where all the teachers in Chinatown San Francisco agreed to teach Gong Li as a first form in all their schools to discourage "studio hopping." The movements here are probably closer to the firm yet flowing (hence the name) style of real Shaolin than many things purported to share the heritage. An old fashioned, strong style with internal and external evidentially mixed as its key mark. Gong Li is often associated with Cang County, "The Hometown of Martial arts." Among its constituent sets are Big Frame Fist, Gong Li Double Sabers, Shaolin Saber, Front Cross Staff, Back Cross Staff, Single Saber against Spear, Double Sabers against Spear, Dragon Gate Saber, Traveling Fist and, of course, Gong Li Boxing. Here are some notes on the style from the Cang County Martial Records: "Gong Li Quan's manner of boxing is extended and generous, clear and straightforward, simple and honest, sedate and stolid, realistic and not flowery. Strength flows with the techniques, the techniques follow the shape. The shape is beautiful with abundant force, agile yet well paced. This Boxing method's special points are clear and obvious. The reasons for the structure of this distinctive practice method is that Gong Li internally tempers Qi, externally practices strength. Collectively these give health; self protection; and cure disease all as a single entity, with movements to adjust Qi and fortify strength. This practice can make a difference in one's appearance and physique. It possesses martial and health practice (Nei Yang Gong). The boxing method has equipment and forms all very organized, initially plain then flourishing, initially slow then fast, every gesture and motion, according to its theory. The method of striking is fierce, quick and neat, but never strained to cause disruptions. The practice is graduated, keeping in mind a calm Qi flowing strength and spirit with depth of feeling; never a state of depleted breath and pale color. Longevity can be enhanced for men, women, old and young: for everyone. In Gong Li Style there is much to persuade the God of Longevity (to give his benefits)." Instructors: various. Click on pictures to see larger versions. |
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A good, very classical set performed slowly and deeply. The performer here is no teenager but the postures are the type we might see in a series of woodblock prints. Not that outstanding compared to many similar sets but, as we have said above, an example of a style that has been little corrupted by the fashions of the moment and the turbulence of politics. Some of the best Kung Fu in China can be found in the smallest styles and the most out of way places. |
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A wonderful, old traditional form practiced by two senior players. Mostly quick hand combinations, stylized "passes" where they pass in front of one another, some locking, mostly striking; as though a group of old photographs had come to like or "the Lady in the Painting" had stepped down into your studio. |
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Single and Partner forms mixed in this very traditional series. One occasionally gets the feeling that some of these teachers are sensing their last chance to record the arts they have loved so much. That said, the hands are quick, some Chin Nah in the partner set. The single set is like a Tan Tui with the lines mixed up. |
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The Flowing Strength style is similar to the Tan Tui style. The postures are relatively slow, controlled with much dynamic tension and holding. Never hurried the Gong Li (Gong Lik) movements emphasize correct form. In this more advanced set they are mixed more creatively with angular changes, some timing breaks and a wider range of movement than some other sets in the style.
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Jia Zi, Structure sets are generally slow and methodically, often holding positions until they "soak" into the practitioner's bones. This is a classic example of "old time" Kung Fu with internal dynamic tension exercises mixed with very controlled and precise foot patterns. Almost a cross between northern and southern Shaolin styles. |
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This is a hard one. It starts out like a Contemporary Wushu set for competition. Then there is a full section of moves which look the same as many forms but it is punctuated by very small almost apeish movements. The sword is then reversed, salutation style, and ANOTHER section is performed. A toss in the air, a catch and a final section of this long and varied set. Fast, mincing steps, snapping moves, many twists and turns. |
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This spear form is long and very thorough, having many changes including interactions with the legs, stance changes, angles strikes and hand transfers. |
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