Kung Fu

Shaolin Martial Arts

Shaolin combat methods are taught via forms (套路; tàolù). Shaolin kung fu has more than hundreds of extant styles. There is recorded documentation of more than a thousand forms, which makes Shaolin the biggest school of martial art in the world.

In the Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Shaolin monks chose 100 of the best styles of Shaolin kung fu. While they shortlisted the 18 most famous styles, every lineage of Shaolin monks have always chosen their own styles.

Every style teaches unique methods for fighting (散打; sàndǎ) and keeping health via one or a few forms. To learn a complete system, Shaolin monks master a myriad of hand and weapon styles. Some of most popular weapons for students today include staff, broadsword, straight sword, 9 section whip, and spear, to name a few.