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Uniforms, Not Uniformity

The Styles of Kung Fu

 

 Kung Fu is an elegant and graceful Martial Art, characterized by forms reflecting the movements of various animals.  As such, practitioners of Kung Fu must be able to move swiftly and free from restriction.  The Kung Fu uniform needs to flow easily with the motions of its wearer, accommodating for the agility and flexibility demanded by their craft.

 

Kung Fu uniforms come in a variety of styles, ranging from refined silk brocade with large panels extending from flowing sleeves to utilitarian sleeveless fabric, tied with twine around the legs and waist.

 

Shaolin Monks' matching uniforms are a symbol of oneness and functionality, as the Monks themselves traditionally made their own clothing.  Modern-day Kung Fu academies often assign matching uniforms to their students to promote school spirit and pride.  The Instructor, or "Sifu", will grade each student through a system of colored sashes, depending on their individual level of knowledge and skill.

 

Ultimately, the choice of Kung Fu uniform is a matter of personal preference.  Kung Fu uniforms are available through Internet sources, Martial Arts supply companies, Kung Fu Academies, or can be custom designed by certain tailors.  In each instance, they are offered in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and styles.

 

Kung Fu uniforms are generally unisex, but female Kung Fu practitioners sometimes opt to wear beautifully-crafted Chinese-style dresses, particularly during public demonstrations.  Female Kung Fu artists may also incorporate weapons into their dress, in the form of throwing spikes as hair accessories or metal fans that they can use with deadly precision.

 

Whether they be rare and expensive silk masterpieces, or simple and practical cloth, Kung Fu uniforms are designed with a single purpose:  To offer the freedom necessary for the spirit and grace of the individual to shine through.

 

 
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