Frankfurt Chamber of Shaolin

Last week I was lucky enough to spend a few days visiting Shaolin Wahnam Frankfurt. Germany is fortunate enough to host not only one of the most senior Wahnam disciples in the form of Kai Jettkandt but also his 'Special Chamber'.

Taisipak (eldest older brother) Kai has a training kwoon or dojo attached to his acupuncture clinic.
Recently another building next door has been going through a transformation into a 'special chamber' containing all the traditional training devices associated with Shaolin Kung Fu.

The most eye catching are of course the 'plum flower' posts. These are great for 'moving through the woods' as you move through the forest of poles. Later, after starting on circles drawn on the floor, students progress to moving on top of the posts!

Kung Fu Comes Shortly in Shoreditch...

January 8th 2008 sees Shaolin Wahnam return to Shoreditch.

Kung fu classes Tuesdays and Thursdays, a short walk from Old Street tube, just off the A10.



Details of free taster session can be found here.

Shaolin Wahnam is the international school of Grandmaster Wong Kiew Kit.
Scroll down or check out our links for more information about us.

Events in 2008

Saturday 26th January- All Nations Gathering
The All Nations is annual gathering of Wahnam Students from across the UK and Ireland. Hosted first by Brighton, then Manchester, the event has now moved north to Scotland and the beautiful city of Edinburgh.
There will be '8 hours' of teaching throughout the day, along with 'Review/Q & A Sessions'. The cost - £50
Further details will soon be posted at here.


Saturday and Sunday 19th & 20th April- UK Warrior Project
This is your chance to learn directly from Taisipak (Eldest Big Brother) Kai of Frankfurt. The weekend covers using kung fu against other styles of martial arts. In 2008 this event will be held in the Brighton area. Details will be announced nearer the time. Students must have reached level two in the syllabus to attend.

July 2008- UK Annual Summer Camp
This is the yearly visit of Grandmaster Wong Kiew Kit to our shores. Over the duration of a week he'll be teaching the following not to be missed courses:

Tuesday 15th July – 18th July
Southern Shaolin Kung Fu – Introduction to Internal Force and Combat Application – 24 hrs of tuition.

Saturday 19th July
Generating Energy Flow – Essential Introduction to Shaolin Cosmos Chi Kung skills and techniques – 6 hrs of tuition.

Sunday 20th July
Massaging Internal Organs – Using Energy Flow to Massage, Nourish and Heal Your Internal Organs – 6 hrs of tuition.

Monday 21st July

Cosmic Shower – Discover How To Tap Energy From the Cosmos and Channel It to Cleanse Your Body of “Energy Blockages” – 6 hrs of tuition.

Tuesday 22nd July
Sinew Metamorphosis – Also Known As Merging With The Cosmos – 5 hrs of tuition

Wednesday 23rd July
Shaolin Internal Force – Internal Force Is Not Just For Martial Artists You Can Use It To Enhance Health, Promote Mental Clarity and Gain Glimpses of Cosmic Reality – 6 hrs of tuition.
More details can be found here.
Saturday 2nd - Saturday 9th August- Mountain Retreat Levels 1-4
Saturday 9th - Saturday 16th August- Mountain Retreat Levels 4-6

Meditation, Chi Kung and Kung Fu with Taisipak Kai all taking place half way up a Swiss Mountain. Not to be missed.
More details can be found here.

Swiss Weekend Warriors

Last weekend the small town of Winterthur played host to this year's Swiss Warrior project.
So many new faces and a few old timers gathered to learn the tricks of the trade from Taisipak Kai of Frankfurt.
As always a good time had by all and as always never enough sleep.

What's in a Logo?

The design of the logo is red in colour and the background yellow. These are the colours of our school. Red represents courage and righteousness, and yellow represents compassion and wisdom, manifesting the ideals of a scholar-warrior as well as the ideals of a warrior-monk.

The design of the trident and three-sectional soft-whip makes the letter W and N, indicating "Wah Nam", named after Grandmaster Lai Chin Wah and Grandmaster Ho Fatt Nam, the two sources from which our school developed.

The trident and soft-whip also represent kong (gang in Mandarin) and yow (rou), indicating both the 'hard' and 'soft' dimensions of our training.


The inner and the outer circles represent both the internal and external approaches of our cultivation, and also signify that we pay respect to both our mind as well as our body. The inner circle reminds us of the importance of internal unity, and the outer circle our universality, i.e. we spread our arts to deserving people, irrespective of their race, culture and religion.

In addition, note that Shaolin is a Mandarin translation, whereas Wahnam is Cantonese. Shaolin was chosen over Siu Lam (which is in Cantonese) because it is universally known, whereas Wahnam was chosen over Huanan (in Mandarin) because the names of our grandmasters, Lai Chin Wah and Ho Fatt Nam are generally known in Cantonese.

This shows we can be both idealistic and practical at the same time -- the non-dualistic characteristic of Zen. We are idealistic in our aspiration, but practical in our application. It also reflects that while our origin (Shaolin) was from the northern Shaolin Temple, our development (Wahnam) was from the Shaolin Temple in the south.

The above was written by Grand Master Wong Kiew Kit. Reproduced from www.shaolin.org

When personalising the logo for South London a picture of Grand Master Wong Kiew Kit performing the pattern 'Swimming Dragon Plays with Water' was added. The low stance reflects the traditional nature of our kung fu, the dragon form finger strike highlighting the internal aspect.

Roots and Culture

This was going to be a post about the differences between sport martial arts and other more traditional styles like Shaolin Wahnam. Many arguments have raged over the advantages of one or the disadvantages of the other. Now is not the time to explore these.

A much more worthwhile exercise is to examine and understand the roots of your chosen art and discover how and why it practises in the way that it does.

Gold Medals at International Wushu Championships

Naoko Yamada, Hubert Ruzack and Sifu Michael Chow, all from Shaolin Wahnam Canada, won gold medals in Optional Empty Hand Routines II, Traditional Northern Empty Hand Forms and Optional Empty Hand Routines I respectively at the 2007 Wushu International Championships held on 21st and 22nd July at Hamilton, Canada.

It is no surprise for Sifu Michael Chow, who has won many gold medals before, to win again, but for new comers like Naoko and Hubert to win gold medals the first time they competed in wushu championships, it is a remarkable achievement. Much credit goes to their coach, Sifu Emiko Hsuen, who herself is a former wushu international champion.

Shaolin Chi Kung Comes to London

Here at Shaolin Wahnam, Chi Kung and Kung Fu have always gone hand in hand. In fact, they are the same hand but that's a long story. While it is impossible to practise Kung Fu without Chi Kung, the same is not true the other way around. Chi Kung can be taught and practised as an art in its own right.

For those who want to enjoy the benefits of Chi Kung without taking on the vigours of learning a martial art, the Shaolin Wahnam Institute is pleased to announce a free evening of Chi Kung with Sifu Marcus Santer.

When: Thursday 20th September 2007

Where: Lancaster Hall Hotel, 35 Craven Terrace, London, W2 3EL (5 mins walk from Paddington)

Time: 19:00 hours

Sifu Marcus has said, "My presentation will focus on health, vitality and longevity and how Shaolin Cosmos Chi Kung can overcome so called incurable illnesses. I aim for my presentation to last no longer than 1 hour. At 20:00 hours refreshments will be served, so feel free to hang around and chat, ask questions etc. I have the hall until 11pm, so there's no rush.
I look forward to seeing you, bring your family or bring a friend. If you can't make it but know of someone who could benefit from learning more about the benefits of Shaolin Cosmos Chi Kung please let them know about this presentation."

Email: marcus.santer@shaolinwahnam.co.uk for any questions.

Importance of Skill

During one of my first classes in Shaolin Wahnam many years ago we were all lined up performing a simple straight punch, a punch known as 'Black Tiger Steals Heart'. My Sifu described how, although knowing many techniques, masters would often choose one to specialise in. This would become their unbeatable move.

I loved the idea that such a simple technique like the 'black tiger' punch could be treated this way. It showed that good kung fu comes not from learning more and more techniques or complex series of movements but from skill.

What do we mean by skill? Simply we mean all the other factors other than the technique itself. For example good timing or the ability to always get the distance spot on. On a higher level focusing on a simple technique means that the student can focus on perfecting the three internal harmonies of the Shen (mind), Chi (energy), Ching (structure).

Swiss Shaolin Mountain Retreat

This year's retreat saw Wahnam members from across Europe gather in the beautiful setting of the Swiss mountains for six days of meditation, chi kung and kung fu. With students working together to cook and clean and, with the bonding that comes with sharing such intensive training, many new friendships were made.

Taisipak (Eldest Brother) Kai of Germany, once again, proved himself not just a master of the Shaolin arts but also as a teacher of those arts. I cannot recommend next year's retreat highly enough.

Pictured is the sunset from the Judohaus where the retreat was held, Olaf of Germany celebrating the climbing of the local peak and a group picture of the first batch of students (the second week's students are still there!).

Holiday in China

Sifu Simon is currently enjoying the kung fu retreat in Switzerland. 6-8 hours a day of Shaolin kung fu, chi kung and meditation, as taught by Taisipak Kai of Germany might not seem any kind of holiday! This is just one of many special courses offered to continuing students of Shaolin Wahnam.

While he is away, here are some photos from a trip to China in 2002, the village and temple of Shaolin and Wudang, places of kung fu, tai chi history and legend.

Pictured is the Shaolin temple, the wooden friezes and weapons to be found within and the gateway to the wudang mountains in Hubei province. Finally, there is a glimpse of children practising at a wushu school where Simon stayed in the Shaolin village. Without fail, they were to be found going over their forms from the early hours until dusk. A great example. Keep up the good work!

From Out of India

The text below was written by violinist Yehudi Menuhin and forms the foreward to 'Light On Yoga' by Yoga guru B.K.S Iyengar.
The first patriarch of Shaolin Kung Fu, and indeed the first patriarch of Zen Buddhism, was an Indian prince named Boddhidharma. He renounced his royality, became a monk and travelled the silk road to China arriving in the fifth century AD. Therefore it should not be so surprising that what we read about Yoga below can be applied word for word to our own Shaolin arts.

"The practice of Yoga induces a primary sense of measure and proportion. Reduced to our own body, our first instrument, we learn to play it, drawing from it maximum resonance and harmony. With unflagging patience we refine and animate every cell as we return daily to the attack, unlocking and liberating capacities otherwise condemned to frustration and death.

Each unfulfilled area of tissue and nerve, of brain or lung, is a challenge to our will and integrity, or otherwise a source of frustration and death. Whoever has had the privilege of receiving Mr Iyengar's attention, or of witnessing the precision, refinement and beauty of his art, is introduced to that vision of perfection and innocence which is man as first created-unarmed, unashamed, son of God, lord of creation-in the Garden of Eden. The tree of knowledge has indeed yielded much fruit of great variety, sweet, poisonious, bitter, wholesome according to our use of it. But is it not more imperative then ever that we cultivate the tree, that we nourish it's roots? And furthermore how dangerous is that knowledge to those who, ill at ease with themselves, would rather apply it to the manipulation of other people and things than to the improvement of their own persons.

The practice of Yoga over the past fifteen years has convinced me that most of our fundamental attitudes to life have their physical counter part in the body. Thus comparison and criticism must begin with the alignment of our own left and right sides to a degree at which even further adjustments are feasible: or strength of will will cause us to start stretching the body from the toes to the top of the headin defiance of gravity. Impetus and ambition might begin with the sense of weight and speed that comes with free-swinging limbs, instead of the control of prolonged balance on one foot, feet or hands, which give poise. Tenacity is gained by stretching in various Yoga postures for minutes at a time, while calmness comes with quiet, consistent breathing and the expansion of the lungs. Continuity and a sense of the universe come with the knowledge of the inevitable alternation of tension and relaxation in external rhythms of which each inhalation an exhalation constitutes one cycle, wave or vibration among the countless myriads which are the universe.

Yoga, as practised by Mr. Iyengar, is the dedicated votive offering of a man who brings himself to the alter, alone and clean in body and mind, focused in attention and in will, offering in simplicity and innocence not a burnt sacrifice, but simply himself raised to his own highest potential.

It is a technique ideally suited to prevent physical and mental illness and to protect the body generally, developing an inevitable sense of self-reliance and assurance. By it's very nature it is inextricably associated with universal laws: for respect for life, truth, and patience are all indispensable factors in the drawing of a quiet breath, in calmness of mind and firmness of will.

In this lies the moral virues inherent in Yoga. For those it demands a complete and total effort, involving and forming the whole human being. No mechanical repetition is involved and no lip service as in the case of good resolutions or formal prayers. By its very nature it is each time and every moment a living act."

Take Back The Power!

Every Saturday morning the local park is invaded by an army. An army of tabard wearing sweaty twenty to thirty somethings squatting, star jumping, jogging, pushing, pulling, and looking knackered. All this is directed and enforced by a camouflaged squad of screaming military instructors.

In Shaolin Wahnam we believe that good health is your birthright and anyone can achieve this most basic of aims. The only downfall is that you are the only one who can do this. Often the most profound effects of Shaolin Chi Kung and Kung Fu come from the most basic of exercises. The exercise is the easy part, the constant daily practise is the hard bit.

It could be the aching legs, a cold wet morning or just a racing mind coming between you and your practise. These trials soon teach us that the only battle worth fighting is with yourself. Real progress can only be made from the inside out. Self-discipline is both the means and the measure of real sustained progress. So take the responsibility back!

Pictured are Sifu Inness Maran and Sifu Michael Durkin practising Chi kung in an old photo from Frankfurt.

Canterbury Tales

Another successful Summer Camp has drawn to an end. At various points over the past two weeks students from England, Scotland, Wales, The Netherlands, Switzerland, America, Cyprus and Spain gathered to learn Chi Kung, Kung Fu and Classical Weapons directly from Grandmaster Wong Kiew Kit as he made his annual visit to the UK.

The aim of such courses is always to push your own limits, physically, mentally and emotionally. This is not really surprising when you consider that each student is taught about two years material within the space of three or four days!

The challenge now that we have all returned home is to practise. There is a saying in Shaolin Wahnam that learning is 5%, practice is 95%. This is an important lesson to help us progress in our art and in our lives in general. Make sure there's a book inside the cover!

For most of us this need to practise means having to choose. Some of those who took the Classical Weapons course already had their favourites and remain unchanged in their views. Others are now thrown into a dilemma with each of the Butterfly Knives, Spear and Straight Sword showed their beauty and their own charm.

Toys For The Boys (and girls)

The annual Shaolin Wahnam UK Summer Camp is currently underway. Amongst the various courses taught by Grandmaster Wong Kiew Kit this year is a four day weapons course. The use of traditional weapons opens up a whole new dimension to our practice and the lessons learnt are not only reflected in unarmed practice but also remind us of kung fu's history as a very real fighting art.

Pictured are Sifu Michael Durkin and Sifu Marcus Santer both admiring some of many toys at the camp.

Cross Border Raid

Last weekend a wet Edinburgh hosted one of Taisipak (oldest older brother) Kai's warrior projects. A good number of students from Manchester, London and Worthing made the journey north to take on the Scotts, a few Italians and a couple of Germans. Many thanks to Sifu Mark Appleford for all the organisation, Taisipak Kai for making the journey over and for everyone who took part and made it another great weekend.

Wahnam Hits Channel M

Last Saturday saw a group of London students pay a visit to sunny Manchester to partake in the filming of a short documentary about Shaolin Wahnam. The concept was the work of a final year film student and was backed by Manchester's very own Channel M.

The programme will feature footage of a regular class as well as interviews with Sifu Michael Durkin and both Manchester and London students.

Thank you to everyone who made the early start, bought shoes and made t-shirts. What better way to spend International Chi Kung Day.

Next Free Introduction Class Tuesday 28th August

The next chance for you to join the South London classes and practise the wonderful Shaolin arts will be at the start of September.

Before you sign up for the three month term you can visit us on Tuesday 28th August for a free taster session.

Regular classes are held every Tuesday between 7.30 and 9.30 pm just a few minutes walk from Pimlico underground station. For further information and to register for the free session, please visit our classes page.

Inside Kung Fu Magazine Cover Story!

This month's copy of Inside Kung Fu magazine carries an acticle by Grandmaster Wong Kiew Kit entitled 'The Ultimate Technique'. Master Wong has a regular 'Ask the Master' column in the magazine and this is now the second full article.

A selection of the 'Ask the Master' questions and answers can be found online at the Inside Kung Fu website.

Frankfurt Warrior Project Feb 2007

Another fine weekend in Frankfurt. One kwoon, two days, three countries, four sessions, five... err... days to recover?

May: Warrior Project Edinburgh 2007

Taught by Taisipak kai of Germany.

May 12th & 13th

For students at Level 2 or above. The courses are aimed at those who either wish to increase their Combat Efficiency or are thinking of making a career in tournament competitions. Participants will learn how to apply Shaolin Kungfu against other arts (Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Mixed Martial Arts, Grappling, etc.) and can also find out about Sanda competitions.
Please refer to link for details.

July: 2007 Annual UK Summer Camp Canterbury

Taught by Grandmaster Wong Kiew Kit

7th - Generating Energy Flow
8th & 9th - Shaolin 18 Lohan Hands
10th & 11th – Shaolin 18 Exercises for Health and Vitality
12th – 15th - Introduction to Kung Fu Internal Force and Combat Application
16th – 20th – Lion Dance
21st – 24th – 3 Classical Kung Fu Weapons

Please refer to link for details.

August: Shaolin Wahnam mountain retreat Switzerland

Taught by Taisipak Kai of Germany.

1st retreat:
August 4th - 11th 2007

2nd retreat:
August 11th - 18th 2007

Every day, 6 - 8 hours Shaolin Kung Fu, Chi Kung and Meditation. Students of Level 2 and above.

Please refer to link for details.

Happy New Year!

Shaolin Wahnam South London would like to wish everybody a very happy Chinese New Year! The coming year of the Boar is traditionally a good time for bearing children as the boar is associated with fertility and virility. Children born this year will be happy and honest. Chinese communities the world over will today celebrate with Lion dances to bring good fortune for the coming year and Dragon dances to ward off evil spirits. Pictured here is a typical Lion's head and a giant pig from celebrations in Sydney earlier today.

All Nation's Gathering- Manchester 2007

January 27th/28th saw the second successful gathering of students from around the UK at the 'All Nations' event in Manchester. This annual get together is a meeting ground for students from across the UK to train together, share experiences and meet new faces. The teaching is carried out by instructors and assistants from each centre in the UK who take the group for a one hour slot. Subjects this year ranged from footwork to pressing attacks to stretching and setting aims and objectives. A full review of the two day event can be found on this Discussion forum thread. Next year's All Nations Gathering will be taking place in Scotland. Watch this space for details!

Changing Perceptions of Kung Fu

One of the main aims of Shaolin Wahnam has been the promotion of Jun Zi or the Confucian concept of the ideal person. This notion maintains that we should try and excel in both the scholarly and the martial arts. The tough warrior reading poetry has become a cliche but that should not detract us from the goal of leading a rounded life.

We are lucky in that the three main areas that we develop in our training (see 'The Kung Fu Fire Triangle'), can easily be applied to whatever we turn to. With a healthy body, a sound mind and plenty of energy we are free to engage fully in life. Not only this, but with the open heart that comes from good chi kung, we are more open to the joys of even normally mundane tasks.