“Unlock your potential with ancient training”
Ultimate Warrior Experience: 10 Month Kung Fu Training with a Shaolin Monk in Shandong
Yu Kung Fu Martial Arts Academy, 199 FuMin Road, BinHu town, Tengzhou City, Zaozhuang, Shandong province, China
Learning Kung Fu in China
Yu Kung Fu Martial Arts Academy gladly announces that Shifu is now accepting new students to join their incredible family. The academy will help you step by step from your visa process to your pick-up at the train station. You will be trained by an official 34th overseas Shaolin Temple Representative Warrior Monk, Grand Master Yu Zhi Chao, who will supervise closely your process and formation until you reach your maximum potential and break your limits. Lower your stress by strengthening your body, mind, and spirit. Only at Yu Kung Fu International Martial Arts Academy!
Meet the instructors
Yu
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Highlights
- Daily training from Monday to Friday
- Variety of classes: Shaolin Basics, Forms and Weapons, Qi Gong and Meditation
- Jumps and Rolls, Taichi, Body Conditioning Power Training, Sanda Kick Boxing
- Be part of the foreign team and enjoy your time while you motivate each other
- Experience the lifestyle and learn how to communicate in the Chinese language
- Full access to all training equipment, Wi-Fi, washing machines, and school bicycles
- Free train station pick up
- 299 nights accommodation and 3 full meals a day
Skill level
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Advanced
220 days with instruction in English
The organizer also speaks: Chinese (mandarin), French, German, Hindi, Spanish
Airport transfer available:
Beijing Capital International Airport (US$ 200 per person)
Beijing Capital International Airport (US$ 200 per person)
Airport transfer available:
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (US$ 200 per person)
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (US$ 200 per person)
Accommodation
Facilities
- Gym
- Dining area
- Garden
- Kitchen
- Lounge
- Multilingual staff
- Smoke-free property
- Special menu request
- Free Wi-Fi
- Laundry
- Parking lot
The student accommodation building is located within the school grounds. The accommodation offers comfort and peace outside of training hours. To help everyone feel comfortable when they arrive, each student will receive a student starter kit with toiletries, linen, a water bottle, laundry powder, and shower slippers.
Facilities
- Double student bedrooms
- Dining room
- Bathrooms with hot showers and western toilets
- Community room with Wi-Fi
Program
Shaolin Kung Fu
Shaolin Kung Fu, Prepare to unleash your inner warrior with the timeless art of Shaolin Kung Fu. Dating back over 1500 years, this traditional Chinese martial art is steeped in history and cultural significance. It was developed by Buddhist monks to protect themselves and improve their physical and mental well-being, emphasising in discipline and inner strength. Channel your inner Bruce Lee and learn the legendary moves of the Shaolin monks.
Shaolin Kung Fu combines powerful strikes, fluid movements, and a wide array of forms and techniques. It's not just a martial art but a way of life, promoting balance and harmony. It has evolved to include various styles, each with its unique characteristics.
Benefits
- 1 week to 1 month: Improved flexibility and basic self-defense skills.
- 1 month to 3 months: Enhanced strength and better endurance.
- 3 months to 6 months: Improved agility and advanced techniques, deeper meditation practice, and increased physical stamina
- 6 months to one year: Proficiency in multiple forms, heightened physical awareness, and a strong sense of propioseption.
Training Exercises
- Basic Stances: Start with fundamental stances like Horse Stance and Bow Stance.
- Kicks and Strikes: Practice kicks, punches, and strikes to develop precision and power.
- Forms: Learn Shaolin forms, such as the Five Stances Form and Eighteen Lohan Hands.
- Weapon Training: Start with staff and advance to weapon forms like swords, nunchaku and more.
Sanda (Kickboxing)
Sanda is a Chinese combat sport developed for the military. For those who crave action-packed martial arts with a modern twist, Sanda Kick Boxing is your ticket to unleashing your potential. Combining traditional Chinese martial arts with Western boxing and kickboxing, Sanda offers the best of both worlds.
Sanda’s combination of fighting techniques include wrestling, takedowns, punches, kicks, sweeps, and much more despite its western classification as kickboxing. It is a practical martial art used for self-defense and competition.
Benefits
- 1 week to 1 month: Improved stamina and striking skills.
- 1 month to 3 months: reflexes, basic self-defense skills, and improved endurance.
- 3 months to 6 months: More fluency in takedowns and throws, increased striking power.
- 6 months to 1 year: Advanced striking techniques, superior self-defense capabilities, and an overall boost in confidence.
Training Exercises:
- Cardio: Jump rope, running, and shadowboxing.
- Techniques: Punches, kicks, takedowns and clinching drills.
- Sparring: Controlled sparring sessions to practice techniques (not mandatory).
- Self-defense: Training against common attacks and counterattacks.
- Bag Work:Start throwing combos at the heavy bag and improve your speed.
Taiji (Tai chi)
Tai Chi, also known as Taijiquan, is an ancient Chinese martial art with deep historical and traditional significance. It originated in the 17th century in China's Chen Village and is based on the principles of balance, harmony, and flowing energy. Tai Chi was originally developed for self-defense but has since evolved into a holistic practice that combines martial arts, meditation, and physical fitness. Legend has it that it was inspired by a fight between a crane and a snake, and used their movements to create the slow, fluid movements of Tai chi.
Tai Chi is renowned for its graceful, slow-flowing movements that build strength, flexibility, and balance. It is both a martial art and a form of moving meditation, emphasising the cultivation of internal energy (qi or chi). Tai Chi forms, which are sequences of movements, are performed with a focus on precision and controlled breathing.
Benefits
- 1 week to 1 month: Students may experience improved posture, increased relaxation, and an introduction to the basic movements.
- 1 month to 3 months: Better coordination and flexibility, reduced stress and anxiety, and improved overall well-being.
- 3 months to 6 months: Students can expect improved coordination and a more profound understanding of the art. Many practitioners report better sleep patterns and a heightened sense of calmness.
- 6 months to 1 year: Long-term commitment to Taichi yields significant health benefits. Students may see a decrease in blood pressure, enhanced cardiovascular health, and a strong sense of self-awareness and inner peace.
Training Exercises
- Beginners steps : These movements are designed to help students understand the concept of "Qi" flow in the body. They involve slow and deliberate rotations of the arms and torso, emphasising relaxation and connection.
- Intermediate steps: This is a common training exercise in Taichi that focuses on sensitivity, balance, and adaptability. It involves partner work where students learn to redirect and control their opponent's force.
- Form Practice: Taichi forms are a sequence of movements that make up the core of the practice which combines all the essential elements into a flowing routine.
Qi Gong
Qi Gong, is a Chinese practice dating back over 2,000 years. It is rooted in Taoist and Confucian philosophy, focusing on the cultivation of "qi" or life energy. Qi Gong is widely used in martial arts to improve energy flow, endurance, and overall health. It includes various forms of breathing exercises and slow, flowing movements.
This control and understanding of one's Qi energy can then be used to begin training of the hard Qi Gong techniques, which condition the mind and body against pain and obstruction. Qi Gong enhances the flow of energy within the body, promoting health, vitality, and martial effectiveness.
Benefits
- 1 week to 1 month: Improved energy levels and relaxation.
- 1 month to 3 months: Enhanced internal energy, improved balance, and coordination.
- 3 months to 6 months: Proficiency in specific Qi Gong exercises, increased vitality.
- 6 months to 1 year: Improved martial arts techniques and greater resistance to fatigue.
- Training Exercises and Routine:
- Stance Training: Holding postures to accumulate and circulate energy.
- Breath Control: Specific breathing techniques to harmonise energy flow.
- Visualisation: Mental imagery for energy movement and balance.
Body Conditioning
Body conditioning, also known as Hard Qi Gong is integral to martial arts and involves toughening the body and mind to reduce susceptibility to injury for combat.
It improves a martial artist's ability to absorb strikes and enhances resilience and enhances pain tolerance. Traditional methods include iron palm training and hitting various surfaces to strengthen the body.
Benefits
- 1 week to 1 month: Improved pain tolerance and skin hardening.
- 1 month to 3 months: Enhanced resistance to strikes and conditioning of limbs.
- 3 months to 6 months: Greater resilience in sparring and increased striking power.
- 6 months to 1 year: Remarkable body toughness and the ability to perform feats of strength.
Training Exercises:
- Iron Palm: Striking sandbags and surfaces to toughen the hands.
- Iron Shirt: Repeatedly receiving strikes to the body to condition muscles.
- Leg Conditioning: Kicking our legs and rolling a staff on the shin.
Acrobatics
Looking for a mix of athleticism, artistry, and a dash of Jackie Chan-style flair? Acrobatics is your answer. Discover the rich history of Chinese acrobatics that spans over two millennia. It was initially developed for entertainment and later integrated into various martial arts. The routine is design so students have a gradual progress and do not encounter any injures, Shifu helps every step and motivates you to reach your goals. Become fearless while listening to your body.
Benefits: Acrobatics in martial arts involves impressive and agile movements used for combat and performance. It enhances a practitioner's agility and reflexes.
- 1 week to 1 month: Improved flexibility and balance. Forward and Backward rolls.
- 1 month to 3 months: Improved balance, flexibility, and basic acrobatic skills. Tiger rolls, Tornado Kick.
- 3 months to 6 months: Intermediate jumps and rolls and partner acrobatics. Tornado Twist, Kick Up, Butterfly Kick.
- 6 months to one year: Performance of acrobatic sequences, a sense of grace and control. Front Flip, Back Flip, Butterfly Twist
Training Exercises:
- Stretching: Daily stretching routines for improved flexibility.
- Tumbling: Learn basic somersaults, cartwheels, monkey rolls.
- Balancing: Hone balance with handstands and core exercises.
Power Training
Power training has roots in traditional martial arts, focusing on developing explosive strength and speed. Ancient warriors and fighters engaged in rigorous strength-building exercises to enhance their combat skills. These methods have evolved over time, integrating modern fitness techniques while maintaining their traditional essence.
Power training is an essential component of martial arts. It improves muscle strength, endurance, and explosiveness, making practitioners more formidable in combat. Traditional martial artists perform exercises like weighted calisthenics, medicine ball throws, and resistance band workouts to enhance their power
Benefits and Changes:
- 1 week to 1 month: Slight improvement in strength, improved muscular endurance.
- 1 month to 3 months: Significant strength gains and enhanced combat capabilities become evident.
- 3 months to 6 months: Stamina and explosiveness improve, aiding in sparring and Shaolin forms.
- 6 months to 1 year: A noticeable transformation in strength and combat performance.
Training Exercises
- Plyometrics: Jumping exercises like box jumps and squat jumps.
- Weightlifting: Focus on compound movements like squats and deadlifts, Push-ups with added resistance (e.g., using a weight vest).
- Speed Drills: Rapid punches and kicks against resistance.
- Core Work: Sit-ups, planks, and medicine ball exercises.
Power stretching
Power stretching has been an integral part of martial arts it finds its origins in Wutang Kung Fu and yoga. It aims to improve flexibility, balance, and inner harmony.
Power stretching increases a martial artist's flexibility and range of motion, reducing also the risk of injury.
Benefits
- 1 week to 1 month: Improved flexibility and reduced muscle soreness.
- 1 month to 3 months: Enhanced range of motion, more fluid movements.
- 3 months to 6 months: Greater flexibility in advanced poses or movements, increased kicks' height.
- 6 months to 1 year: Profound improvements in overall physical agility and control.
Training Exercises
- Dynamic Stretching: Leg swings, arm circles, and hip rotations.
- Static Stretching: Holding positions like splits and straddle stretches.
- Partner Stretches: Assisted stretches to increase flexibility.
- Consistent practice and gradual progression.
Meditation
Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years in various cultures, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism. It has roots in spiritual and philosophical traditions aimed at achieving mental clarity and inner peace. It is used to improve mental focus and discipline.
Meditation is now widely recognised for its impact on mental focus and performance in sports and martial arts. Athletes use meditation to sharpen their concentration and reduce anxiety, it also enhances concentration, self-awareness, and emotional control, all crucial for combat.
Benefits
- 1 week to 1 month: Basic mindfulness meditation focusing on breath and body awareness.
- 1 month to 3 months: Enhanced focus and emotional balance.
- 3 months to 6 months: Incorporate visualisation techniques to enhance performance, clarity and control
- 6 months to 1 year: Develop a personalised meditation routine, combining mindfulness, visualisation, and breathing practices.
Training Exercises
- Breath Control: Focusing on controlled, deep breathing.
- Mindfulness: Concentrating on the present moment.
- Visualisation Meditation: Observing self performance in detail.
- Consistent daily practice with gradually extended meditation sessions.
Training Schedule
This is the weekly training schedule, with small changes occurring during severe weather. There may also be schedule changes during events, competitions, and workshops held by the school.
Monday
- 07:00 Breakfast
- 08:00 Warm up
- 08:30 Basics and forms
- 10:20 Forms training
- 12:00 Lunch
- 14:30 Acrobatics
- 15:50 Tea
- 16:00 Sanda or forms
- 18:00 Dinner
Tuesday
- 07:00 Breakfast
- 08:00 Warm up
- 08:30 Corrective forms
- 10:20 Acrobatics
- 12:00 Lunch
- 14:30 Strength training
- 15:50 Tea
- 16:00 Strength training
- 18:00 Dinner
Wednesday
- 07:00 Breakfast
- 08:30 Qigong
- 10:20 Conditioning
- 12:00 Lunch
- 14:30 Power stretching
- 15:50 Tea
- 16:00 Power stretching
- 18:00 Dinner
Thursday
- 07:00 Breakfast
- 08:00 Warm up
- 08:30 Form training
- 12:00 Lunch
- 14:30 Acrobatics
- 15:50 Tea
- 16:00 Sanda / forms
- 18:00 Dinner
Friday
- 07:00 Breakfast
- 08:00 Warm up
- 08:30 Form training
- 10:20 Power stretching
- 12:00 Lunch
- 14:30 Qi Na
- 15:50 Tea
- 16:00 Strength training
- 18:00 Dinner
Saturday
- 07:30 Breakfast
- 09:00 Optional training
- 12:00 Lunch
- 18:00 Dinner
Sunday
- 07:30 Breakfast
- 09:00 Optional training
- 12:00 Lunch
- 18:00 Dinner
Language
Mandarin fluency is not necessary as there is an English translator for every class.
Level of Experience
As of this moment, no prior martial arts experience is necessary for students applying for the standard martial arts course.
Student Preparation
First and foremost, it's important to have a positive mindset going into this training. Martial arts is not just about physicality, it also requires a strong mental attitude. Be open to learning new techniques and methods, and don't be too hard on yourself if you struggle at first. Remember, every expert was once a beginner.
- It’s essential to start building your physical endurance and flexibility. Begin with a simple routine at home, incorporating cardio exercises like jogging, jumping jacks, and skipping rope.
- Maintain a balanced diet with a focus on proteins, carbohydrates, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Staying hydrated is crucial, so drink ample water throughout the day.
- Ensure you get enough sleep each night. Recovery is as important as training, and a well-rested body and mind will perform better.
What to Expect:
- Intensive Training: Once you're here, ease into your training routine. Listen to your body and communicate with your instructors about your fitness level and any concerns. Consistency is key, so attend every training session and give it your all.
- Language and Communication: If you're in a foreign country, language barriers might be a challenge. Try to learn basic phrases or carry a translation app to facilitate communication.
- Cultural Experience: Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture. You'll not only learn martial arts but also gain insights into different traditions and ways of life.
- Camaraderie: Expect to bond with your fellow trainees. Martial arts fosters a sense of community, and you'll likely make friends who share your passion.
- Personal Growth: This journey will test your physical and mental limits, but it will also empower you with increased self-confidence and discipline.
- Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture. Engaging with locals can enhance your experience and provide a better understanding of your new environment. Try the local cuisine and explore the area during your days off.
Remember, the most significant growth often happens outside your comfort zone. So, step out with confidence, embrace the sweat, and enjoy every moment of your martial arts journey. It's a life-changing adventure, and you'll come back with skills and memories that will last a lifetime. Good luck!
Professional
Yu Kung Fu was started with the desire to guide and train the best martial artists, performers, and competitors. They believe that each student arrives already in possession of all their potential but that it takes a skilled teacher to unlock it all.
What you will get
- Reach master level and be officially graded and recognized by the Shaolin temple
- International-level teacher
- High-grade professional competitions
- Martial arts stunts and fight choreography
And the best part is you can use the tools and knowledge given to you to continue to train and improve for the rest of your life, your potential is limitless. Tailored training is as intense as you can handle. Martial arts training is inherently difficult, there is no improvement or satisfaction if it is not. Cuts turn to scars, knuckles callous, muscles grow and stretch, and your skill increases but only if you keep moving forward, changing, and training harder and smarter.
Yu Kung Fu Martial Arts Academy
Founded only recently in the summer of 2017, the Tengzhou Shaolin Academy, Yu Kung Fu, was opened by Headmaster Yu ZhiChao to create a wushu school with a singular purpose: to guide, provide for, and create the best martial artists and athletes.
It is the dream of the headmaster and in turn, the school, that they should bring together a diverse team of students from across the world to expand their knowledge and fine-tune their technique; preparing them for competitions, performances, teaching, or just furthering personal experience.
Inside the school grounds, there are facilities for students to train full-time in all available disciplines: Shaolin basics and forms, Sanda (Chinese Kickboxing), acrobatics, Taiji, Qigong, strength, and flexibility training. Gymnastics mats, boxing bags, speedballs, weights, body conditioning equipment, and racks with all Shaolin weapons are just some of the resources available.
Currently Shifu has been training a student to master Sanda in a Chinese Professional Degree where being able to fight in a formal tournament and win combat. He has also instructed two students to achieve a 4th Duan In an Official Shaolin Temple Grading, grading students at the same hall Shifu used to train in.
Instructors
Yu ZhiChao
Master Yu ZhiChao is the 34th generation Shaolin monk of the Shaolin Temple and the member of the temple's international performance group. He is the founder and headmaster of Yu Kung Fu Martial Arts Academy. Headmaster Yu ZhiChao began full-time martial arts training at the age of eight. He then was accepted into the Songshan Shaolin Temple in Henan Province to begin his life-long journey as a Shaolin disciple. By 2014, he had achieved a sixth band rank within the Shaolin Temple, the level of master, and began to expand his teaching experience to foreign students.
Location
The school is located in a small village outside Tengzhou City, Shandong Province. Surrounded by forests and open farming land extending for kilometers. The village itself is a friendly community. The walls are covered in paintings and tiled murals depicting sacred mountains and waterfalls.
The school is 45 minutes away from the city, which has all the amusements and supplies necessary for a Saturday or Sunday trip.
Distances
- Tengzhou City - 45 minutes
- Weishan Lake, 5 kilometers away
- Confucious Grave / Temple - 50 minutes away
Food
Three meals a day are provided in the dining room with coffee and tea served with breakfast. Meals may include, eggs, veggies, seasoned fruits, rice, bread, mushroom, chicken, noodles, tofu, etc. Different combinations but equally delicious. Even more after training! Please let Yu Kung Fu Martial Arts Academy know in advance of any dietary requirements.
During your free time or when you wish to eat out, the prices at local small restaurants vary from 10 to 30 CNY, while bigger chains can go up to 300+ CNY.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten Free
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
- Hallal
- Lactose Free
- Other dietary requirements on request
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation
Things to do (optional)
Explore China
Exploring China during your visit is possible. The only condition is that you must advise the school of your travel plans beforehand.
Other activities
Only a few minutes walk from the school are a few small restaurants, shops and a big lake for swimming. In the city of Tengzhou, there is any of the restaurants, activities, and sights you would find in a large Chinese city.
Spa treatments
Some local massages start at 180 CNY per session. Please send an inquiry for further details.
What's included
- 3 full meals a day
- 6 hours of guided classes five days a week
- 24-hour free Wi-Fi
- 299 nights accommodation
- Free student starter pack
- Full access to all training equipment
- Train station pick up
- Use of school bicycles
- Use of washing machines
- Chinese language and culture class
- Application fee
What's not included
- Visa application fees (if your country requires an original letter, an extra fee will be added for shipping, this will be depending on FedEx price)
- Train station drop off
- Extra snacks and drinks
How to get there
Recommended Airports
PEK
Beijing Capital International Airport
571 km
Transfer available for additional US$ 200 per person
PVG
Shanghai Pudong International Airport
599 km
Transfer available for additional US$ 200 per person
Arrival by train
Arrive at any international airport and take the train to Tengzhou train station or Tengzhou East station. Yu Kungfu Martial Arts Academy will pick you up from Tengzhou station for free.
Airport: Beijing Capital International Airport
Airport transfer available:
Beijing Capital International Airport (US$ 200 per person)
Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.
Airport: Shanghai Pudong International Airport
Airport transfer available:
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (US$ 200 per person)
Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 30% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 7 days before arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through Tripaneer.com. All major credit cards supported.
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