Shaolin Monks
Buddhist Monks / Warriors
Buddhist monks of Shaolin Temple on Mount Song, founders and guardians of Shaolin Kung Fu.
Quick Facts
China (Henan)Biography
Shaolin monks synthesized Chan Buddhism with martial physical conditioning for over 1,500 years, creating Northern and Southern Shaolin Kung Fu animal and weapon forms.
Associated Martial Arts
A southern Chinese style from Guangdong that builds on the open palm rather than the fist. Its stances are higher and more mobile than in other southern schools.
Chuka Gar (Chuka Southern Praying Mantis)Master→Rare Southern Chinese branch of Southern Praying Mantis focused on close combat.
Lianhuanquan (Continuous Chain Boxing)Master→Traditional Shaolin kung fu style characterized by an unbroken chain of explosive strikes.
Shaolin QuanMaster→The body of styles tied to the Shaolin monastery in Henan. Its martial tradition is documented from the Ming dynasty, when the monks also served as troops.