During this trip we will focus on Tai - chi, the art of Qi-gong and Jiu-Jitsu.  There will be many opportunities to train with experts in these fields throughout.  All levels will be catered for so from absolute beginners to advanced.   

 

If you're looking for a beginner's martial arts experience in China, you're in for an incredible journey! China is home to some of the oldest and most respected martial arts traditions, and there are plenty of opportunities to get started as a beginner.

Here’s what you can expect from a martial arts experience in China as a beginner:

Traditional Chinese Martial Arts (Kung Fu)

Overview: China is known for its rich martial arts history, particularly Kung Fu, which includes styles like Shaolin, Wing Chun, Tai Chi, and Wushu.

What to Expect: Most beginner classes will start with basic stances, footwork, and conditioning exercises. Tai Chi, in particular, is beginner-friendly and focuses on fluid, meditative movements.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

Overview: While Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu originated in Brazil, China has seen a growing interest in the sport in recent years. Many big cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu, have BJJ academies that welcome beginners.

What to Expect: As a beginner, you’ll start learning the basics of ground control, submission holds (like armbars and chokes), and escaping from dominant positions. Many academies offer beginner-friendly classes and open mats to practice techniques.

Where to Train: There are several reputable BJJ academies in major cities. Some even offer seminars and specialized training camps for beginners.

Tai Chi

Overview: Tai Chi is often considered both a martial art and a form of meditation. It's perfect for beginners who are looking for something low-impact and focused on balance, flexibility, and breath control.

What to Expect: Tai Chi classes typically start with learning slow, flowing movements known as "forms." It’s gentle but can help build strength, coordination, and mental focus.

Where to Train: Tai Chi is practiced all over China, often in parks and outdoor spaces, especially in cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

Training Environment in China

Class Size: Beginner classes are often small, allowing instructors to provide personalized attention.

Language Barrier: While many martial arts instructors in larger cities speak basic English, knowing some Chinese phrases will be helpful. Many schools also have English-speaking instructors.

If you're looking for an immersive experience, Jiu-Jitsu Journey Academy offers BJJ training camps where you can train daily and live on-site for weeks or months, gaining deeper insights into the culture and philosophy behind the martial art.

Cultural Experience

In addition to learning martial arts, you’ll be immersed in Chinese culture. Many schools and training camps incorporate elements of Chinese philosophy, such as Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, which are central to understanding the martial arts mindset. This cultural aspect can deepen your practice and give you a greater appreciation for the traditions you are learning.

Tips for Beginners

Start slow: Martial arts can be physically demanding, so don't rush into advanced techniques. Focus on learning the basics first.

Consistency is key: Practicing regularly will help you progress faster. Don’t be discouraged if things seem difficult at first!

Respect the culture: Martial arts schools in China often have traditional rituals, such as bowing to instructors or showing respect to training partners. These are important aspects of Chinese martial arts culture.

Starting your martial arts journey in China will be an unforgettable experience. You'll learn valuable techniques while diving into one of the most culturally rich countries in the world.

 

Martial arts origins

The origins of martial arts can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where they were developed for self-defense, hunting, military purposes, and physical fitness. Different forms of martial arts evolved independently across the world, influenced by cultural, philosophical, and practical factors. Here's a brief overview of some key origins:

China: Martial arts in China have a long history, with origins dating back over 4,000 years. Early Chinese martial arts were heavily influenced by military training and were designed for self-defense, battle tactics, and spiritual discipline. Taoist monks, particularly at the Shaolin Temple, are credited with developing many traditional Chinese martial arts such as Kung Fu. These arts emphasized both physical techniques and mental discipline, drawing from philosophy, medicine, and religion, such as Confucianism and Buddhism.

India: India is another important source of martial arts history, with practices like Kalaripayattu and Malla-yuddha (ancient wrestling) having been developed as early as 2,000 BCE. Kalaripayattu is considered one of the oldest fighting systems, originating in the southern part of India. Indian martial arts were influenced by a mix of religion, philosophy, and practical needs of self-defense.

Japan: Japanese martial arts such as Jujutsu, Kenjutsu, and Sumo have deep historical roots, particularly from the samurai class. Japanese martial arts evolved over centuries and were closely tied to the feudal system and warrior culture. Judo, Karate, Aikido, and Kendo are modern martial arts that evolved from these ancient practices.

Greece and Rome: Ancient Greece contributed significantly to martial arts through Pankration, a no-holds-barred combination of boxing and wrestling that was part of the Olympic Games. Ancient Roman gladiators were also trained in combat techniques, with their training rooted in military discipline and public spectacle.

Southeast Asia: Countries like Thailand and Indonesia have their own martial arts traditions. Muay Thai (Thailand) is known for its striking techniques, particularly using elbows, knees, and kicks. Indonesian Pencak Silat incorporates strikes, grappling, and weaponry, influenced by both cultural and military practices.

Western Martial Arts: In the Middle Ages, Western Europe developed its own martial arts for self-defense, warfare, and sport. Fencing and Swordsmanship were central to European traditions, with manuals and schools of combat emerging during the Renaissance period, focusing on weapons and hand-to-hand combat.

Martial arts have continued to evolve throughout history, often adapting to the changing needs of warfare, culture, and society, and are now practiced worldwide in various forms for sport, self-defense, and personal development.