The System and Lineage of Chow Gar Southern Praying Mantis

The history, legend, and documented transmission of Chow Gar Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu from its origin to the present day.

The Origin of the System

Chow Gar Southern Praying Mantis originates from Chow Ah Naam, who developed the system after training at the Fujian Shaolin Monastery. The style is named after its founder and is distinct from Northern Praying Mantis.

Lau Shui and the Hong Kong Transmission

The system was brought to Hong Kong by Lau Shui, where it was preserved and developed through the Tung Kong lineage.

Grandmaster Ip Chee Keung — The Gatekeeper

Grandmaster Ip Chee Keung is the current gatekeeper of the Tung Kong Chow Gar lineage. His direct disciples — including the instructors at MyChowGar — are the only authorised transmitters of this complete system outside Hong Kong.

What Makes Chow Gar Different

Chow Gar is a short-bridge, internal power system. It operates at close range using shock power (Yiu Kiu) generated through internal mechanics. The external rules of movement exist to protect internal principles — not to create a particular appearance.