Loughborough Hung Kuen Kung Fu

All martial arts involve some form of training etiquette, and Hung Kuen is no different. The purpose of the etiquette is first and foremost to ensure that everyone remembers to show the proper levels of respect for one another, for the instructors, and for the martial arts we practice. Etiquette thereby ensures that we can train safely together by providing a standard, ordered structure to each training session.

Bowing
Bowing is a common feature of most martial arts and it is used as a sign of respect towards another person. Different styles of martial arts have their own ways of bowing, in Hung Kuen we bow using following steps. The right hand is clenched in a fist. The left hand is flat with fingers closed and thumb slightly bent. You place your right fist against the left palm, infront of the neck, about 7 inches away from the body. Your shoulders should be relaxed and your wrists straight. You bow very slightly from the waist, keeping your head and back straight, as you do so push your hands out slightly. Try to maintain eye contact with the person you are bowing to. When someone bows to you, you should bow back to
reciprocate the respect they just showed you.

In Hung Kuen, the right fist represents the “Warrior” and our ability to fight. The left palm represents the “Scholar”, our learned and peaceful nature. Bringing the fist and palm together symbolises the fact with fact that we know how to fight but choose restraint over violence. As a martial artist you aim to develop both these aspects, the mind and body, as you train.

Rules
In the interests of safety, and to maintain an atmosphere of respect, all members must observe the following rules at all times:

• Don’t chat when the instructor is talking,
• Don’t swear or shout out during practice
• Always focus on training – don’t mess about during sessions
• Don’t break away from training without asking permission first, unless in an emergency
• If you need to leave early, let the instructor know at the start of the session or as soon as you
are able to
• Only senior belts (brown/black) are allowed to instruct; if you need help, ask a senior
• Show respect for your own and others’ wellbeing at all times; never do anything to endanger
anyone during practice
• Never spar with another member without asking a senior belt to referee
• Always bow to Master Ang whenever addressing him during training
• Always bow to the instructor or senior members before and after asking for help
• Always bow to a partner before and after practicing techniques or sparring
• Always bow to the training hall as you enter or exit
• Always remove your outdoor shoes before entering the training hall
• Wear correct kit if you have it, and remember to wear your coloured belt at each session
• Members without correct kit (including belts) stand at the back of the class
• When arriving late, run to the front of the class, bow to the instructor, bow to the class, and then
take up position at the back