Originally Posted by
Pa Kua
After reading the countless pages of comments I finally decided to post.
I've been training at a CSC for many years. Here are my thoughts on Shaolin-Do. 1st Question - why is "Shaolin" hyphenated in Shaolin-Do (as in "Shao-lin Do)? Is it semantics?
Advantages:
1. Lineage and claims aside, from a technical standpoint, I think that it is certainly a valid "for real" martial art. The basic aspects of stances, punches are valid, whether or not it is a "karatefied" chinese art or not doesn't really matter to me much. I would however be nice to say that it is true Shaolin Kung Fu. Each of the forms do have practical applications, and while they are shown, it is also up to the individual student to apply them.
2. Where I live it is probably the most cost effective method of learning martial arts. Alot of training hours are offered at a very good monthly rate.
Disadvantages:
1. Because there are so many forms it seems that it is predominantly a "forms learning" environment.
2. The additional required classes greatly increase the overall cost of training. You also have to by a kwan dao which is only used for one form. Why not follow on kwan dao forms?
3. The requirement that a certain number of classes be attended prior to being able to advance can be bothersome.
4. The curriculum is way too rigid. Someone may never be able to learn forms that interest them. Why only learn a few of the black tiger forms and not the rest?
5. The politics! Vegans are "worshipped". If you eat meat, you are a subclass of student. If someone wants to become an assistant instructor then they cannot imbide alcohol. Have to listen to instructors talk about politics and issue anti-U.S. rants when most people are there to learn martial arts.
6. I spoke to a chinese ju jitsu master (verified lineage to China) and he asked what martial arts I have studied. When I mentioned Shaolin-Do, a smirk appeared.
7. The desire of the school and students/instructors to "chinafy" themselves. Carry chopsticks, only read chinese literature, only watch kung fu movies, wear chinese hats, bash the U.S. - this is mainly a pet peeve only. I don't really care about what other people necessarily do. The school definitely has a "cult like" atmosphere with junior students following senior students/instructors actions (herd mentality). Ex. testing to higher belt levels and becoming vegan.
Conclusion - Overall, the schools are well run (the ones I've seen), with a valid curriculum. it all depends on what you make of it.