Questions and Answers

Everybody has Questions to which they would like a sensible answer. This is the reader's and student's page for just that. Shirfu replies.
(Please note: due to the abhorrent use of English by some, a few  e-mail questions may be edited to make them easier to read or understand.)

Q: Hi. I am looking for a Martial Arts class to take my 10 year old to. Can you advise please?

A: Whether your child is six or sixteen, there are some very important factors to look out for.
* No forced joints (severe twists) or forced stretches; Remember, children are still growing and forming, so joint problems can be serious! * An instructor who makes the classes fun, but also educational. * CRB Checks against child abuse. * Instructor's qualifications, experience and Public Indemnity Insurance.#

Q: I'm confused because there are so many different Kungfu styles out there. What one should I do?

A: Which style you should do depends on what you want. If you are looking for something which encompasses a more holistic approach; e.g. self-defence, philosophy, life style, better health, etc., then you are in the right place. If you want to perform fetes of strength and have a more showy physique, then something like modern Shaolin might be more suitable. Like any journey, it begins with one step, but first you must make your mind up where you wish to go!

Q: On your website it says you are the Chief Instructor. Do you call yourself a Master then?

A: I do not presume to call myself anything. No instructor worth his salt grades himself. This would be an obvious ego trip. No, I am many things to others, but to myself I am simply a Teacher or "Shirfu". My old Taoist Arts Master when asked "Are you a Master?" replied, "No. I have not even mastered my own life, let alone Kung-fu!" A sensible answer. I do have one student who is Master Grade (5th Level Teacher), but this is only a Rank title given by me in recognition of his 22 plus years of Kung-fu (hard work and training). In formal occasions, like in letters or other writing, a Chief Instructor, Master Grade, or even first level instructor should address themselves as 'Shih-fu', no matter what other titles they may have.

Q: Why do you do grades? They aren't really necessary.

A: We use Grades because a well structured syllabus will help all students by providing a step-by-step structure which they can climb, metaphorically speaking. Each step adds a logic progression to the student's abilities and knowledge.
See more about this subject in 'Ranking'.

Q:

A: