PolyU Kung Fu Festival - Talk Two and Demonstrations: Evolution of Chinese Martial Arts as Modern Sports

Ever since ancient times, a person’s literary accomplishment and physical prowess have been regarded in Chinese culture as two equally important virtues. This led to the birth and flourishing of martial arts, which were seen as a means of self-cultivation and state-building. In the 21st century, traditional martial arts around the world have evolved into modern competitive sports, in the guise of Judo, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, Karate and so on, which are characterized by clear assessment systems and international competitions. Chinese martial arts, in stark contrast, lag far behind in this transition to ‘modernity’. A wealth of time-honoured techniques and styles in China are in danger of sinking into oblivion.
 
Mr Hing Chao, CEO of the international Guoshu Association, will shed light on the reasons for the difficult survival of Chinese martial arts in modern times and the road ahead. There will also be live demonstrations by PolyU students and staff, and kung fu masters.

Speaker: Mr Hing Chao, CEO, International Guoshu Association
Mr Hing Chao, a graduate of Durham University, UK, has practised Chinese martial arts since childhood under renowned masters. He founded the International Guoshu Association and the Hong Kong International Kung Fu Festival in 2009. He has also co-authored several publications, in particular, Hung Kuen Fundamentals: Gung Gee Fok Fu Kuen and Hung Kuen Training: Chin Cheung & Fok Fu Kuen Deui Chak, to promote Chinese martial arts.

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Walk-ins are welcome if seats are available after the commencement of the programme. First-come, first-served.

This event will be conducted in Cantonese.