Cai Li Fo (Choy Li Fut)

As a method of improving health and physical fitness, Cai Li Fo forms provide excellent 
cardiovascular exercise. The movements include sophisticated  handwork, coupled with a 
wide variety of fast-moving footwork. 36 weapons, including broadsword, staff, spear, and the
Nine Dragon Trident, are available as part of a student’s curriculum.  Cai Li Fo forms, both 
open-hand and weapon, are not only powerfully effective, but also flowing, circular, and 
beautiful to watch.
 
In terms of self-defense and physical training, Cai Li Fo is ideal. The moves are designed to be 
effective for any body type, giving most people the ability to learn Cai Li Fo  thoroughly and to 
master many of its techniques. Cai Li Fo forms develop the student's muscles and bones, 
conditioning the body evenly and promoting well-being.  Each movement  is natural, loose, 
and relaxed, the same way snapping a towel requires it first to be soft and supple before the 
power is released.

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The Shaolin temples are the renowned birthplace of Chinese kung fu. Cai Li Fo uses agile, 
northern Shaolin footwork in combination with the southern Shaolin explosive fist.   Three 
major, distinct lineages of Cai Li Fo are taught at Golden Lion: Fut San, King Mui and 
Jiang Men (Kong Chow). Cai Li Fo, also Choy Li Fut, was founded by Chan Heung in 1836. He was

taught by two Shaolin monks,  Choy Fok and Li Yau San, for whom he named the kung fu system. In addition, his uncle, Chan Yuen Woo, a renowned martial artist and Buddhist, trained him.  Chan Heung, 
paying homage to his Uncle, included the word  'Fut', which is the Chinese word for Buddha.
  
Cai Li Fo Kung Fu training includes 
      Forms -  the practice of  moving in a set sequence of different  techniques with different stances. 
      Joint locks -  the practice of immobilizing an opponent by controlling their joints.
      Sparring  -  the practice of applying martial arts techniques with a partner to understand timing and                               distance.
      Lion dancing -   the practice of  two people using the fabulous Chinese Lions to celebrate weddings, 
                                    grand openings and special events.
      Internal training -  the practice of developing one’s internal energy (Qi) with martial arts techniques.

Please feel free to ask any questions.  Any techniques regarding internal energy, timing, and distance cannot be explained in words alone. Attending classes, you will experience and feel it.