Five Animal Styles of Kung Fu

I taught Kung Fu Cinema at a university, these are some notes: enjoy

A creativity exists in developing Chinese martial arts. Many are based on animals, some real (Tiger) and some mythical (Dragon).

In the film "Spiritual Boxer II," Lau Kar Leung developes a kung fu vampire style which would be copied in all kung fu vampire films that would later come out. One can notice the creative energy in such styles as the five animals of Shaolin. Lau Kar Leung learned Hung Fist which is related to Shaolin.

These complementary animal styles were created during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). A monk would within one fight use elements of all five animals. In kung fu films, opponents often call out the special techniques they are performing as they fight.

I am sad to report that there is no Shaolin Panda style as found in the film, "Kung Fu Panda" (2008) from Dream Works Animation.

Dragon Style of Kung Fu

Water ( Shen or mind) uses circular movements, internal energy.

Dragon Kung Fu Techniques

"Twin Dragons Search for Pearls": kicking the eye and going simultaneously

"Seize and Shake the Rope" : grabbing both hands and trapping the arms while going into a low stance.

"Dragon Wraps the Pillar": parrying the arm (pillar) while hitiing the face

Tiger Kung Fu Style

Uses Jing, (ess\ence) a powerful animal; the Tiger Claw fist is a popular technique of this style, external energy.

Leopard Kung Fu Style

Develops speed and external strength; the Leopard Punch is performed by bending the first set of knuckles in while keeping the palm open.

Snake Style Kung Fu

Uses chi, an internal style; the snake fist is a signature technique of this style striking out like a cobra bite.

Crane Style Kung Fu

Has balance and grace; one usually stands on one leg (Karate Kid 1984) attacking by angles, internally.

Thank you for reading

Some of this information is from YOUNG FOREST KUNG FU CLUB