Why do we have to learn forms in Kung Fu...?

Question

I have been doind Kung Fu for about a 1yr and a half... i want to know why do u have to learn forms?

Answer 1

Forms are to Kung Fu what Shadow boxing is to Boxing. They are a training method used to improve balance, proper breathing, footwork and overall control of your physical movements. It also helps you to be more concious of your movements by emphazising proper body mechanics. It is a good way to train when you are alone, but sooner or later you need to spar with a partner to put these forms into practice. Think of it this way, in Chemistry class you have Theory and Lab work. You can't pass the subject if you master only one, you need to master both Theory and Laboratory work. It's the same in Kung Fu, Forms is the Theory part, while sparring with an opponent whether in practice or in tournaments is the Laboratory part.

Answer 2

forms are a series of fighting movements linked together in a particular pattern to teach lessons that only can be learned by doing. Lessons like balance, speed, power, accuracy, and flow. If these movements weren't linked in forms you would be lost, especially as a beginner in the system, of what and how to practice your movements without an opponent. Forms teach, and train, by repetition you are now in a deep workout, building muscles those who've preceded you deem worthy to build. Forms are a very vital and important part of your training.

Answer 3

As was told to me by my sensei....I take Moo Duk Kwan, but most martial arts have forms......that the kata or forms is a way to get you used to using a certain technique or block.

Kata is a simulated fight. At the early sashes or belts, you are taught and merely go through the motions. But when you have done in for a while, you should start to imagine a person attacking you and you doing the block and counter.

Answer 4

If you've been doing Kung Fu for a year and a half and don't even know 'why' you're doing the forms then your teacher sucks. sorry to break it to you.

Answer 5

forms ARE NOT simulated fights. katas are singular techniques of your art that comprise the moves of that art. they are joined together to allow you to memorize the many moves of your art. fights are never structured like this. to use kata in a fight is to lose.

the only reason you do them is to perfect the moves that comprise your art.

for the guy who said they are simulated fights, you are being feed illusion. fights are not chess play where each move is separate, and turns take place. fights go through the motions like a single movement of multiple attacks.

you only do forms to show your precision of moves in gradings and to show the instructor you have understanding's of the movements that make your art different from others. if you did kata all your life, 20 hours a day, you would be no better off in a fight. you need sparring and fighting practice to enable you to be better at fighting. many kata are stupid for fighting, like leg checks with forearms.

they dont help you fight, but only give you the basics for options.

Answer 6

Becuz da shifu shaid sho! Now get back to your farms! hrah hrah hrahhh!!

Answer 7

How else will you learn to snatch the pebble from my hand Grasshopper?