What is Lau Gar?

Lau Gar is a style of Kung Fu, a Chinese Martial Art. The 'Family' style (Lau) is a Southern, External Short style. This means it originated from the south of China and unlike Chi Gung, which trains the internal body, is about training the external actions (punching, striking etc). The style is referred to as 'short' because it is based around an opponent being up close so the strikes are close range.

Lau Gar is maintained as a traditional style within the UK by Master Yau and the Guardians. The history of the style goes back a long way. To read the full story of Lau Gar history, then please visit the Associations website: www.laugar-kungfu.com

Lau Gar can be taught to almost any age and ability and is great for fun, fitness, self defence, in fact whatever your reason for wanting to do a Martial Art. Since the style was introduced to the UK, and the British Kung Fu Association was formed, the learning of the Martial Art, like many others has become syllabus based. This means that a student learns certain pieces of practice form over some time, then demonstrates these learnt lessons at a grading. Successful completion of a grading results in a new belt, referred to as a 'Sash'.

There are 7 Sashes up to Black: White, Blue, Orange, Green, Yellow, Purple and Brown.

Each grade teaches the student more complex moves and techniques and involves learning walking techniques, a set or form and hand and kick blocks. The latter are performed with another student in the form of a controlled attack and defence routine.

Typically, with some dedication and plenty of practice, most early grades can be completed with as little as 3 months of practice. Once the green or yellow belt is achieved, then each grade may take 6-12 months to learn. Unlike some martial arts clubs, the Lau Gar style is carefully controlled and monitored to ensure the standards, authenticity and accuracy of the style are maintained, no matter which club you attend or who grades you. Often so called martial arts clubs will push students to grade quickly, these unscrupulous martial arts clubs are only really interested in your money - after all, if you really wanted a black belt, anyone can buy one - to EARN one through hard work and having a true ability after, is another thing. By ensuring the standard remains high, ensures that Lau Gar as an Authentic Martial Art continues to teach students how to REALLY makes their martial arts work.

Lau Gar has 6 levels of Black Sash and although students start to learn and use some weapons at Yellow grade and up, it is at Black Sash that the teaching focuses mostly on the use of Sticks, Swords, Spears and other authentic Chinese weapons. It is only when a student is able to control his or her own body and movements, that they are ready to introduce an instrument that will become an extension of them.

To learn all about Lau Gar, History, the weapons we use and even the syllabus,
please visit the Lau Gar website: www.laugar-kungfu.com