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How to Prepare for Kung Fu Training in China
Everything you need to know before your Kung Fu training in China: fitness, health report and insurance, money, phone and apps, and what to expect in your first weeks. No martial arts experience is needed, and most of it takes little time.
No experience neededNo application feeFree pickupStart any week
Your preparation timeline
From your application to your first training.
As soon as you decideApply for free. The application is not binding. Check whether you need a visa and book your flight or train to Zhengzhou.
4–8 weeks beforeFitness and paperwork. Start your training at home, get your health report and take out travel and health insurance. For a longer stay, apply for your X2 visa with our free invitation letter.
1–2 weeks beforePhone, money, luggage. Set up your SIM card or eSIM and the apps you need, sort out your money and pack light.
Arrival dayFree pickup. Send us your arrival details. We pick you up at Zhengzhou airport or train station, at any time of day or night.
First two weeksGetting used to it. Most students need about two weeks to get used to the training. Your Shifu adapts the intensity to your fitness.
Physical preparation
Not fit yet? You will get there.
No special preparation is needed, because you start at your level and build up step by step. A little training every day at home makes the first weeks easier. Any sport that strengthens your muscles and improves your endurance helps.
EnduranceRunning, for example 2 km a day, cycling or swimming.
StrengthPush-ups, pull-ups and sit-ups for arms, back and core.
FlexibilityStretch every day, especially your legs and hips.
RestSleep well and eat healthily. A relaxed body and mind is the best start.
Health, insurance and vaccinations
Arrive healthy and covered.
Health report
Every student needs to provide a health report. If you have an injury, you also need to show that you are able to do hard training.
Insurance
We strongly recommend travel and health insurance from your home country that covers your whole stay in China. Our school does not assume liability for injuries before, during or after training.
Vaccinations
Our school requires no vaccinations, including for COVID-19. China does not require specific vaccinations for entry, except after a stay in areas with yellow fever. Ask a travel clinic for advice, for example about Hepatitis A.
Medication
Bring your personal medication and a small travel pharmacy: sunscreen, insect repellent, plasters, skin ointment, anti-nausea tablets and antihistamines. Medical care in China is good, with Western and Chinese medicine.
Money and payment
You pay once you have arrived.
- No application fee and no deposit
- Pay at the school in cash, by online banking or by bank card
- Prices in US dollars, we help you exchange money
- Withdraw cash at Bank of China ATMs with your bank card
On top of your price, plan for drinks, snacks, personal items, trips and the transfer back to the airport ($70). See all prices.
Phone, internet and apps
Set it up before you fly.
You can use your phone in China with a Chinese or international SIM card or eSIM. Many foreign apps and websites, such as WhatsApp and Google services, are blocked in China. Install and set up everything you need before you travel. At the school, Wi-Fi is free for all students, and there is a shared computer, for example to print documents.
Mental preparation
Open mind, strong will.
A little culture shock in the first days is normal. Read about China before you come and arrive with an open mind. You live and train together with students from all over the world, and our community is welcoming. Three words help from day one: Nǐ hǎo (hello), Xièxie (thank you) and Shīfu (master, teacher).
“No matter how many twists and turns, never give up your goals.”
Shifu Yang Zihan · Meet our masters
吃苦Did you know?
Chī kǔ literally means “eating bitterness”. In Chinese martial arts, it stands for accepting hard training without giving up. Sore muscles in the first weeks are part of it, and it gets easier every week.
Age and requirements
Students of all ages are welcome.
There is no upper age limit. Children can join from 6 years old together with at least one parent. From 12 years old, teenagers can also come alone, with written permission from their parents and a health report. Older students train more Tai Chi and Qi Gong and less running.
Daily life at the school
What you can expect when you arrive.
- Drinkable tap water in the renovated rooms
- Three meals a day, vegetarian and vegan options
- Washing machine in your room, dryer on each floor
- Bedding provided, bring your own bath towel
- School shop for snacks, drinks and everyday items
- Free Wi-Fi for all students
Free & without obligation
Ready to start your training?
No deposit and no application fee. You only pay after you arrive at the school.
- Start any week
- Invitation letter for your visa
- Free pickup in Zhengzhou
FAQ
Preparing for Kung Fu training in China: your questions.
How should I prepare for Kung Fu training in China?
Apply, check whether you need a visa, get a health report and travel insurance, and train a little at home: running, push-ups, sit-ups and daily stretching. Before you fly, set up your phone and apps and send us your arrival details.
How fit do I need to be?
You do not need to be an athlete. You start at your level, and most students need about two weeks to get used to the training. Basic fitness makes the first weeks easier.
Do I need a health report?
Yes. Every student needs to provide a health report. If you have an injury, you also need to show that you are able to do hard training.
Do I need vaccinations for China?
Our school requires no vaccinations. China does not require specific vaccinations for entry, except after a stay in areas with yellow fever. A travel clinic can tell you which vaccinations are recommended for you.
Can I use WhatsApp and Google in China?
Many foreign apps and websites, such as WhatsApp and Google services, are blocked in China. Install and set up everything you need before you travel. Wi-Fi at the school is free.
How much money should I bring?
Not much, because training, room and meals are included, and you pay at the school after you arrive. Plan for drinks, snacks, personal items, trips and the transfer back to the airport ($70). You can withdraw cash at Bank of China ATMs.
Should I learn Chinese before I come?
It is not necessary. Our Shifus speak English, and free Chinese classes take place several times a week. A few words like Nǐ hǎo and Xièxie are a nice start.
What should I pack?
Light luggage: training clothes, running shoes, a bath towel, warm clothes in winter and your personal medication. See our packing list.