The System
Tung Kong Chow Gar
Southern Praying Mantis
One of the most powerful and least-known internal martial arts systems in the world. A complete system for health, power development, and combat — built around the cultivation of Ging.
Origin
The History of Chow Gar
Chow Gar Southern Praying Mantis was created by Chow Ah Nam, who learned in the Shaolin Temple of Fukien. The system was later transmitted to Wong Fook Go, and from there continued through an unbroken lineage: Chow Ah Nam → Lau Shui → Ip Shui → Ip Chee Keung.
Developed within the Hakka communities of Southern China, the system has been preserved through direct, personal transmission for over 150 years.
Unlike many martial arts systems that have been widely commercialised, Chow Gar has remained relatively rare and closely guarded. The system has never been simplified for mass consumption — it has always been transmitted directly from teacher to student.
The Tung Kong Chow Gar branch represents the authentic expression of this system under its original name. Preserved and transmitted by Grandmaster Ip Chee Keung, it is the only lineage that continues to carry the system in this complete and unaltered form.
Core Principles
What Makes Chow Gar Unique
Gen Tan Geng — Shock Power
The central concept of Chow Gar is the development of Gen Tan Geng — shock power generated from the whole body at short range. Unlike muscular strength, Gen Tan Geng is developed through specific Chi Kung training and cannot be faked or shortcut.
Chi Kung as the Core
The Chi Kung practice is not a supplement to the martial training — it IS the martial training. Saam Bo Gin (Three Steps Arrow Punch) is the foundational practice that simultaneously builds health, internal power, and fighting ability.
Close-Range Combat
Chow Gar is a close-range system. The techniques are designed for the range where most real confrontations occur — inside arm's reach. The power generation mechanics are specifically optimised for this range.
Structural Alignment
The system places enormous emphasis on correct body structure. Without the correct frame, power cannot be generated or transmitted effectively. This is why the first module focuses entirely on building the correct foundation.
Internal and External Unity
There is no separation between internal and external in Chow Gar. The Chi Kung practice directly develops the physical power used in combat. Health and martial ability are developed simultaneously through the same practice.
Progressive Transmission
The system is designed to be learned in a specific sequence. Each stage builds on the previous one. This is why the MyChowGar curriculum is structured as a locked, sequential progression — not a pick-and-choose course catalog.
The Benefits