Nathan from England: Kung Fu Training in China

I decided to train in China after discovering a website and realising that it looked like an interesting opportunity that was not available in my own country. So I saved some money and looked into various schools. I chose this school because it was recommended, the curriculum seemed suitable, and the English-language teaching and presence of other English speakers would make my transition to full-time training a little easier.

That certainly helps, and I find the Shifus friendly and approachable.

I was initially concerned that, although I had done some preliminary stretching and training, my lack of flexibility might make my trip a waste of time or the training unbearably difficult. Fortunately, this has not been the case. Instead, I have found that all the exercises are within my capabilities and that my flexibility is slowly improving. Despite a few minor injuries along the way, the training (jumps, kicks, acrobatics and forms) is often enjoyable and challenging. It is also manageable, even though my martial arts background extends only to Taijiquan.

Overall, I would say that my stay so far has been a good introduction to Gong Fu training and basic competition forms.

Nathan Kitchen
England