The National Taipei University Chinese Martial Arts Club was founded in 2002. Instructor Zhou Gaoshan devoted his life to the study of Chinese martial arts and won the championship of the Taiwan National Martial Arts Competition in 1969. He was a disciple of Liu Gongyun, a great master of martial arts. The content taught by the club mainly focuses on praying mantis boxing, with additional support from eight-extremities boxing, tai chi, and eight-diagram palm, combined with weapon training such as knives, guns, swords, and sticks. The goal of the club is to promote Chinese traditional culture and the spirit of loyalty, filial piety, righteousness, and bravery, aiming to cultivate individuals who excel in both martial arts and academics.

A Brief Discussion of Chinese Martial Arts

Chinese martial arts, abbreviated as "Guo Shu," incorporate Chinese philosophical thought and use technique for practical application, emphasizing not only physical prowess but also a humble and respectful attitude. The combination of martial and literary arts emphasizes both physical and internal cultivation, which is unique to Chinese martial arts and sets it apart from other sports. The reason why Chinese martial arts have endured for so long is due to the wisdom and achievements of our predecessors.

1. Kung Fu is a versatile exercise that involves movement throughout the entire body, including internal organs, allowing for balanced development without overemphasizing any one area.
2. It equips practitioners with self-defense capabilities.
3. It is a low-cost activity that requires no special equipment, using everyday objects such as branches as swords or sticks. Even for boxing, there is no need for external objects.
4. It is not limited by the location or venue. Introduction to Chinese Boxing.

Mantis Fist

Its technique is inspired by the mantis catching the cicada, with agile and quick movements and a powerful aura. It employs 12 hand techniques including hooking, wrapping, plucking, hanging, cutting, advancing, collapsing, striking, sticking, adhering, attaching, and leaning, all of which embody the essence of 18 martial arts schools. It also incorporates the footwork of apes and monkeys, making it one of the most advanced forms of martial arts.

Bagua Palm

With its unique agile footwork and rapid, elusive movements, it revolves around the opponent, confounding them with unpredictable techniques that employ five palm methods: patting, tripping, cutting, pointing, and stamping. Its soft and pliable body movements are exceptionally effective.

Ba Gua Quan

The distinctiveness of this martial art lies in the movements of the hands and feet, and the basic techniques include bear walking and through-arm power. It is not flashy or complicated, but rather straightforward and vigorous.

Pi Gua Palm

The hallmark of this style is the palm strike that resembles a thin blade or light sword, with agile and difficult-to-defend movements that rely on the waist for power. Its practice involves striking and beating to condition the internal organs, and the skill can prevent injuries.

Tai Chi Quan

The essence of Tai Chi Quan lies in internal cultivation, emphasizing the use of intention to guide qi, and transforming the body fundamentally. Its movements rely on using the joints to transform energy, with delicate and precise techniques that allow a small amount of force to overcome a larger one. It is an excellent martial art that balances soft and hard, internal cultivation and external practice, and is particularly suitable for girls to learn.

Elements of Traditional Chinese Martial Arts Training External Training: Strengthens muscles, bones, and skin Internal Training: Cultivates essence, qi, and spirit Elevation of Mind and Spirit:

1. Martial Arts: Physical training that strengthens the body through muscle and bone conditioning.
2. Martial Arts Skill: Moves beyond the physical to express internal feelings and emotions through body language and language. From self-expression to selflessness.
3. Martial Arts Power: The cultivation of skills and techniques requires persistence and effort. There is no such thing as a perfect move or technique, but constant practice can lead to the mastery of these techniques. By focusing on the purity of the mind, the development of inner strength and energy can be achieved.
4. Martial Arts Way: The cultivation of positive thoughts and attitudes, as well as the development of a great spirit, can extend beyond martial arts to promote cultural continuity. "Establish a heart for the sky and earth, create a destiny for the people, continue the teachings of past sages, and bring peace to all generations.

Summary:

Chinese martial arts, with a focus on both moral and technical cultivation, is a treasure of Chinese culture. As Chinese people, it is our responsibility to carry on the legacy and honor our history. Training in Chinese martial arts not only improves our physical abilities but also enhances our character and demeanor. It helps us achieve a balanced mind and body, and cultivate both skills and morals. As students, we should take advantage of this precious time in our lives to explore the mysteries of Chinese martial arts and enrich our university experience.