With the Bruce Lee movie Enter the Dragon, Chinese martial arts, or wushu, became a global cultural phenomenon. We examine some of the main types, from tai chi to Wing Chun, and their differences.
Martial arts films are heavily linked with Chinese culture, from the Shaolin Temple in China to famous martial artists in history, such as Wong Fei-hung, Fong Sai-yuk and Hong Xiguan.
Action star JuJu Chan Szeto and movie director Antony Szeto talk about the benefits of martial arts, how to pick the best one for you, and why their new baby looks set to follow in their footsteps.
‘Queen of Swords’ Cheng Pei-pei was the first, like Michelle Yeoh a dancer who became a martial arts star. Angela Mao was as famous as Bruce Lee; Brigitte Lin was the queen of fantasy martial arts films.
Techniques inspired by 12 animals are associated with a powerful style of Chinese martial arts called xing yi quan, practised today for health and fitness. Sorry, Kung Fu Panda fans – pandas do not get a mention.
Martial arts benefit the mind and body. Training in many types is offered in Hong Kong, for children and adults alike. Classes in mixed martial arts, judo, kung fu, taekwondo and BJJ are among the options.
