Kung Fu

Kung fu is the word many people use for Chinese martial arts. It has been around for thousands of years in China. Kung fu has many different styles, and some are inspired by animals like tigers and monkeys. It mixes fighting, dance, and exercise.

Animal Styles

Some kung fu styles copy how animals move. The tiger style is strong and bold, while the crane style uses long graceful moves. The monkey style is quick and tricky. These styles make kung fu fun to watch.

Kung fu is a Chinese word for skill earned through patient practice.
Kung fu is a Chinese word for skill earned through patient practice. (Mostafameraji / Wikimedia Commons)

Shaolin Temple

Many people link kung fu with the Shaolin Temple in China. Monks who lived there practiced kung fu for self-defense and exercise. They became very famous for their skills. Even today, visitors watch them perform amazing moves.

Fun Facts

  • Kung fu is sometimes called wushu in China.
  • The Shaolin Temple is over 1,500 years old.
  • Many kung fu movies have been made in Hong Kong.

Did You Know?

The words 'kung fu' can also mean any skill that takes a lot of hard work and practice.