Originally Posted by Chief Fox
Yes, kung fu works. But no martial art teaches everything. Mantis is very effective but I would say the most important thing in any martial art is your instructor. How does the instructor approach kung fu? Do they concentrate on forms? Do they do two man drills? We he demonstrates a technique does he also demonstrate the appropriate amount of force and power to make the technique effective?
Just because a person studies a martial art doesn't mean they're a good fighter. I've seen several people that have studied an art for years but still wouldn't stand a chance in a real fight. Much of it depends on your willingness to mix it up and respond to violence with more violence. If you don't have the proper mindset then you're going to get your teeth knocked out evey time. It doesn't matter how many boards you can break or how high your flying kicks are.