In this exploration of Tung Kong Chow Gar, we uncover the layers behind its storied past, examining both the historical context and the legends that shape this martial art. From the enigmatic tale of Chow Ah Naam and his encounter with a praying mantis, to the philosophical questions about the effectiveness of mimicking animal movements in combat, we scrutinize the myths and realities that define this style. Join us as we delve into what makes Chow Gar not just a martial art, but a narrative wov
Chow Gar uncovered Chow Gar uncovered Part 1 Introduction to Chow Gar History The history of the system is known in several different forms, and at the same time, there are theories about the development of Hakka styles based on historical data (1) . Without claiming to be exhaustive, relying on the experiences gained from our own practice, we would like to make a thought experiment here, to decipher what the origin story of Tung Kong Chow Gar kung-fu might mean. The Founding Legend of Chow Ah Naam Let's look at the story briefly: The founder, Chow Ah Naam , entered the Fujian (Fukien) Shaolin Monastery after some complications. One of his fellow monks regularly beat him and humiliated him. Chow once, while wandering in the forest, noticed a rickshaw, went there and saw a praying mantis fighting with a small bird and was surprised to see the insect kill the bird (picture). Chow Gar uncovered Chow Gar uncovered He was impressed by the combativeness of the praying mantis and the way it fought with the bird, he realized that this fighting style could be hidden from the mantis (2) . He took the mantis with him to the monastery and secretly observed it in his room, provoking it so that he could study how it fights . Practical Application and Recognition He put into practice what he saw and practiced in secret. The next time he came into conflict with that particular monk again, he confronted him and defeated him this time. The abbot of the monastery saw the scene and also noticed