Welcome…

To Chow's Family Praying Mantis Kung Fu

We would like to welcome you to our School. As you are new, there is much for you to learn, and you will most likely have many questions to ask. We have produced this welcome page to answer some of the most commonly asked questions, and to give a brief introduction to our School and our System.

What is Chow Gar Praying Mantis Kung Fu

Chow Gar (Gar means 'Family') is an ancient Chinese Martial Art which dates back approximately 250 years. It was created by a famous Monk at the famous Shaolin Temple, who devised a no nonsense system of self-defence based upon the power and agility of a small insect, the Praying Mantis. Although the Mantis is very small and really quite delicate, relative to its size it is a formidable and aggressive predator, and one which demonstrates a single-mindedness in matters of survival. We adopt this approach, or 'Spirit', in our system, adapting it to our modern society, and the object of self-defence on our streets today.

How does it work?

Like the Mantis, Chow Gar teaches you to use your power as efficiently as possible, training you week by week to adopt the mantis 'Spirit', until it is second nature. Only then will you gain the confidence and ability to defend your-self, and those around you. This is not a sport, nor is it an art particularly suited to 'demonstration'. There are no fancy techniques, nothing is wasted, everything is focused in one direction.

We will train you to use your body in a very special way. Very soon you will find that you have gained a great deal of strength and energy, and gradually over many weeks of training you will gain the skills which you may not have ever thought possible. Chow Gar has techniques which will render you invulnerable to strikes to any part of your body. And developing the special 'Shock Power', feared and only particular to the Southern Mantis Kung Fu practitioner. You will find it possible, which such power, to release a devastating amount of power in the smallest and most economical movements, just like the Praying Mantis.

Who is the Teacher?

Our head teacher is Sifu Ip Chee Keung (see Family Tree and Interview). Sifu Ip is the actual Son of Grand Master Ip Sui, the World renowned Grand Master of the Chow Gar Praying Mantis System. Being the Son of the Grand Master, Sifu Ip has a depth of knowledge and experience which is uncontested and second to none.

The Chow Gar System has been passed down from generation to generation since its creation 250 years ago. Like anything, the more something is passed around from person to person and place to place, the more wear and tear will result.

Sifu Ip is a Fifth generation Chow Gar master. This means his teachings are extremely pure and as faithful to the art of the Founder as is physically possible.

Sifu Ip has undertaken to teach Genuine Chow Gar Kung Fu anyone who is willing to put aside the time and dedication to learn. There is very little genuine Kung Fu in the UK, and we are extremely lucky to have the opportunity to learn under a true Master.

Does Chow Gar have weapons training?

Traditionally, most Chinese Martial Arts were designed for the battlefield. Those Systems which proved effective survived to be passed down to the next generation. Those who practised ineffective systems were not so fortunate.

Being a Martial Art, there are many weapons to train and learn. Because weapons require a great deal of accuracy and power to use, they are taught after the student is proficient in use of his/her hands and feet. Once a student can unleash his or her power at arms length, the weapons provide a means to extend power further and further away from the body. The weapons used in Chow Gar are all very traditional Chinese Weapons- The Sai. The Pole, The Straight-Sword, The Kwan-Dao, and the Tiger Fork

Because in our modern society there is little need to use exotic weapons such as these, weapons training provide a means to increase power, accuracy, focus, train for fighting against weapons and improve confidence.

How much does it cost to learn?

Lessons are £7.00 for adults and £5 for children under 16. If you are under 16 please bring a letter of permission from your parent or guardian.

In order to affiliate you with the School, there is a membership fee of £40, payable annually. For children under 16, the membership cost is £25. This enables the school to advertise, to produce literature, photography, and arrange events for members. The membership fee is payable after you have trained for four weeks- after which time you should have a good idea if our System and method of training is right for you. In special circumstances, we will allow you to spread payment over a few weeks.

Is there a Uniform?

Sifu Ip is very particular about the appearance of his students. Therefore he asks that you wear black bottoms and a white t-shirt at all times during training. We train barefoot, so there is no need for special foot-wear. You will notice other students wearing Silk bottoms, T-shirts witht the Chow Gar logo and Silk sashes. This is the offical uniform of our school, and the cost of this is included in you first membership fee.

What special etiquette should I be aware of?

There are a number of things you should be aware of when coming to a Kung Fu school for the first time. Traditionally, the way you act and conduct yourself helps share your development as a Martial Artist, as well as showing Sifu and your fellow students that you are a good person. Here are some important things to remember : -

Try to cultivate a respectful and friendly attitude, and your training will be far more enjoyable!

Who should I Contact?

You can telephone Contact Dev 9am-5pm:07885 493 633

Nishan: 07740 191 086

Sunny : 07903 111 670

You can email the school at London_Chowgar@Hotmail.com

Regular Lessons

Thursdays 8pm-10 pm

Emerald Green Centre

(Next to Hammersmith Sation,Genie Building)

263 Hammersmith Road

Hammersmith

Nearest Tube: Hammersmith

Contact Dev 9am-5pm:07885 493 633

Nishan: 07740 191 086

Mondays 730pm-930pm

United Reform Church

(Behind Treaty Centre,Next to Funeral Directors)

(Entrance on Side of Church)

114 Hanworth Road

Hounslow

Nearest Tube: Hounslow Central

Contact Sunny : 07903 111 670