Northern Shaolin Chuan

Northern Shaolin Chuan, or Long Fist, is usually learned first.  Shaolin is an external style emphasizing leg strength and stability in stances.  Kicking, blocking, punching, flexibility, conditioning, balance, and coordination are developed through martial arts routines called "forms."  Shaolin uses large extended, circular movements to improve overall body mobility in the muscles, tendons, and joints.  Shaolin students gain a high level of proficiency in self-defense and confidence, as well as, an excellent foundation for pursuing the more difficult internal styles of Tai Chi Chuan, Hsing Yi Chuan, and Pa Kua Chuan. 

Chin Na has taken a firm hold as one of the leading Chinese Martial Arts ever since its emergence approximately 370 years ago during the Ming Dynasty.  In the Chinese language, Chin Na roughly translates into two words: "Seize" (Chin) and "Control" (Na).  From this definition, the implication is that the major purpose of Chin Na is to "Quiet" or stop an aggressive action without maiming or injuring to a serious extent.  Chin Na techniques are separated into four basic categories: misplacing the bone, dividing the muscle, sealing the breath or vein, and nerve cavity press. 

Chin Na - The art of seizing and controlling.