2. What is Shou' Shu?
Shou' Shu, meaning “fighting way of the beasts”, was
brought to us by Da' Shifu Al Moore Sr. It is an
ancient form of Kung Fu whose motions are based
upon the fighting ways of seven different animals.
These are the bear, siberian tiger, mongoose, white
crane, praying mantis, cobra, and the imperial
dragon. Each of these animals represents a distinct
fighting system in itself and when they are combined
it is called Shou’ Shu'.
In the world of martial arts there are very few true
fighting arts left. Fighting arts are defined as arts that,
at their core, still retain the pure intent of self
protection. While it may not be obvious to the
layman, most so called martial arts are not truly
martial at their core. They are certainly founded upon
martial principle but have deviated for some other
purpose.
These purposes can be but are not limited to:
• Government control
• Conversion to a sport
• Commercialism
These three influences have changed the martial arts world to something completely
different than what it was. Because of this change the publics perception of what martial
arts are and how their training methods operate has also been greatly altered.
Shou' Shu' is one of the rare fighting arts that has been preserved. It has not deviated from
it's original intent. Some things may change as modern influences change. But as long as
the intent and the principle remains true, then the art is considered to be pure. There are
still a few schools and individuals teaching the art in this pure form.
One of my favorite quotes from Da' Shifu Al Moore Sr. was
"There is no your way. There is no my way. There is only the Shou' Shu' way"
What this meant was that to be true it had to follow principle. Personal opinion cannot be
involved. There are three tests which can be applied. If all three are true it is Shou' Shu'.
If not, it is not. these are:
1) Constant flowing focused chi
2) Immediate control of opponents centerline
3) Block possibilities rather than weapons
2
3. The development of Shou' Shu' can be accredited to the Mandarins. This is why we still
call it Chinese martial arts even though it is no longer practiced in China. As with most
martial arts it originally came from ancient Egypt. It was brought to India and eventually
passed on to the Chinese. In China it was developed to an extremely high level of
sophistication by the Mandarin warlords. The art was kept within the royal families by
only teaching it to the eldest son of a Mandarin warlord. In this way the secrets of the art
were protected.
As you study Shou’ Shu' you will slowly begin to understand its complexities and
underlying principles. These principles are what is important. Shou' Shu' is taught
through techniques but it is not a technique art. Techniques are merely the tools by which
Shou’ Shu' is taught. Shou’ Shu' is a unique way of moving which is very natural to the
body. While it is true that a level of proficiency with which a person can defend
themselves can be attained within six months time, one has not even scratched the surface
at even several years of study. If a person has an open mind and is willing to learn, there
is much to be attained through the study of Shou’ Shu'. A study which can keep the mind
active and the body supple for a lifetime.
Shou' Shu' is very different from any other martial arts. If you have studied elsewhere
this will be evident immediately. If not it wouldn’t take much looking to find out that this
is true. While the reasons for this are purely conjecture one obvious reason is how it has
been passed down. It has historically been passed down through generations that were
very concerned with keeping it true to its martial origins. For several generations before
us it was kept underground. This was necessary to its survival. It was practiced by those
that needed it for survival and because of this it was maintained as a highly effective art.
It was never adulterated by mixing in other arts or by taking it into the world of sport
where so many martial arts have lost their martial aspects. Today's practitioners of Shou'
Shu' train hard to continue to maintain its integrity.
It would seem logical that only a few hundred years ago that all
martial arts had to have been highly effective. It is pretty simple to
recognize that those that practiced martial arts that were not effective,
and took their knowledge to the battlefield, did not return to pass on
their arts. For this reason all surviving martial arts had to have some
degree of effectiveness. But in today's world this, of course, does not
happen. Teachers are free to pass on arts regardless of their
effectiveness. If they can convince their students that acquiring such
and such belt will render them invincible on the street, then that art will spread and that
teachers pockets will be filled.
Only through integrity and perseverance can high quality martial arts be passed down.
There is no magic pill that can make a martial artist. There is no amount of hype that can
make a person better at defending themselves. Only perseverance under quality
instruction can do this. It seems like a lot of work to acquire martial skills. One might
wonder if the payoff is high enough. The answer is a resounding ABSOLUTELY! The
benefits are far more than you can imagine. Far greater than what we can go into here.
We'll suffice it to say that Shou' Shu' can be a vehicle for great personal change. Yes we
are all about self defense, but personal development is a byproduct and its benefits are
3
4. immense.
It is quite the paradox that by learning how to become a highly skilled fighter you can
also become your best self. We concentrate on martial development yet you will naturally
realize development in many other areas. You won't find mention of it in class but it is
happening. It is a natural byproduct of intense training and development of self
discipline.
We do not promise that it will be easy. As a matter of fact, at times, it may seem to be
one of the most difficult things you've ever done. But we do promise that it will be fun
(most of the time), it will be challenging, it will push your body, it will push your mind, it
will push your spirit. It will push you to be a better you.
Congratulations on taking the first step. Years from now you just may look back on that
as one of the best decisions you ever made.
4
5. Studio Protocol
This is a short primer for students who are new to Shou' Shu' Kung Fu, and are
unfamiliar with many of the basic courtesies that we all observe when we
practice. The discipline of Shou' Shu' has a long history full of meaningful rituals
that are sometimes lost among modern day practitioners. This is unfortunate
since nothing in Shou' Shu' exists without reason or applicable function.
As a general rule ritual within the studio is
established to create an atmosphere which
facilitates accelerated learning. All rules are
designed with this as the end goal. No rules
are meant to belittle a student, but to create an
atmosphere of respect where learning can
occur. These are traditions, which have
spanned centuries and have proven to be the
most effective system of establishing a learning
environment. Remember you are here to learn
and it is our obligation to see that you do.
Failure to observe these simple behaviors not
only detract from the depth of the art it can create dangerous situations.
Observance of these rituals are not only gestures of respect, but serve to keep
ourselves and our classmates out of harms way, Both in this school and outside
in the world. Many of these rituals are simply basic manners that serve to help us
carry the proper attitude when training and that will extend to our daily lives
The Salute
There are two main types of salutes. The greeting salute and the opening salute.
The greeting salute is used when entering the Quan. It is generally thought of as
a simple hello. The opening salute is done to open and close a class and also to
open and close a form. The purpose of the opening salute is to take a moment to
clear the mind.
The Greeting Salute
The greeting salute is made with the right hand held in a fist. The left-hand thumb
is bent and the four fingers stacked straight. The palm of the left hand is held
over the fist. Both elbows are bent and the arms form a circle. The covered fist is
meant to symbolize a sheathed weapon, showing that we are meeting with no ill
will towards one another
There are actually several forms of this salute. With the first salute the legs and
back are held straight, the feet are together and the eyes are focused on the
person that is being saluted. This salute is intended for persons of equal or lower
rank than you.
The second salute, mainly intended for red belts and brown belts, has the same
hand formation but may be held slightly higher. The feet are held in a cat stance,
5
6. rather than feet together, with the right foot forward. The eyes are also focused
on the person being saluted.
The third variation is simply a slightly more formalized version of the second and
is intended for black belts. It is the same followed with a slight bow with the
hands side by side, palm downwards.
The height at which the arms are held during a salute is meant to show the
degree of respect. Holding the arms high and following with a slight bow shows
great respect. It is a safe practice to always salute with the hands at chest level.
Saluting with the hands lower signifies that you are superior to the person
saluting and could be considered an insult.
The Opening Salute
In the opening salute both hands circle over the head like doing a backstroke
while the left leg cross steps behind the right in what is called a chines cross
step. knees bent, the right hand is crossed over the left in front of the lower body.
Both hands meet together in front of the chest with the palms of your hands
facing up. Then as both feet come together a circle is formed with the arms in
front of the body with the fingertips touching. Bring the hands to the side, palms
up and then a slight bow with the palms down and eyes focused on the person
being saluted
This salute is done before and after a form. It helps clear the mind for the
execution of the form and shows respect for the form. It is also done to enter into
or close a lesson. It shows that the student will give his/her full attention to the
teacher.
The meaning of the salute goes as follows: "I come to you with open hands,
these are my weapons. I come to you with mutual respect and to learn, I lay my
weapons down"
Finally, but maybe most importantly, the full salute is always given to Da' Shifu
anytime he enters the training area. The reason behind this is not only to show
great respect, but because Da' Shifu is all of our teachers. No matter who your
instructor is, you are Da' Shifu's student. All knowledge comes from Da' Shifu. It
is assumed that at anytime Da' Shifu is around that he is teaching all of us. We
should always be listening to him anytime he is around. For this reason we
should always give Da' Shifu a full formal salute anytime he enters the training
area, symbolizing that we are entering into a lesson with him.
Note: Da' Shifu passed away in 2002. Sometimes you will see the people who
knew him salute the picture on the wall in memory. He was a great man and we
now respect him by passing down his art to you to the absolute best of our
abilities.
As of early 2010 Da' Shifu James Clark is the officially recognized Da' Shifu. He
trained directly under Da' Shifu Al Moore Sr. and was the only man to receive all
of the beast knowledge directly from him.
*************************
6
7. When should we salute? Salute when entering and exiting the training area to
honor this space. All of this tradition, its majesty and legacy, depend on what
happens here and now. We salute to show that we will work to preserve these
skills and pass them on to future generations in honor of our martial ancestors,
our teacher's teachers and the founder of the style. As mentioned before salute
when greeting Da' Shifu, Shun Shifu, and his instructors to show respect for the
hardship they endured to achieve these positions. Everyone starts as a beginner,
and the challenges that stand before you now stood before each of your
instructors at one time. Salute anyone that you might work out with, especially for
blocking exercises and technique practice. This signifies that you will work
together on these skills, taking care not to injure one another.
Be the first to salute. Do not wait for your senior/ higher rank to salute you. This
demonstrates your alertness, quick reflexes and most importantly, your respect.
If you are the first to notice that a black belt or Da' Shifu has entered the training
area, you should alert the others in the room to turn and salute.
Salutes should also be promptly returned by upper ranks. It is considered rude
not to do so.
Uniforms
Full gi should be worn at all times. Gi pants and school T-shirt are acceptable
when the weather is hot but gi's are preferable as they will not rip as easily when
used to grab and control a student’s fall. If a student is wearing only a school T-
shirt then the gi top should be brought along and left in the students training bag.
It may be necessary to put the top on for certain exercises. Proper attire is very
useful in your training. The baggy pants allow for high kicks and low stances. The
tops help in your safety. Be proud of your school and wear proper uniforms.
Jewelry, Rings, watches, and other accouterments must be removed before
practice. These objects can cause injuries in training and they are expressions of
ego, which we leave behind as we enter the Quan. If you want to stand out from
the rest of the class, do so by developing outstanding martial skills.
Shoes should be removed before entering the training area. The only shoes
allowed are specially designed mat shoes without tread on the bottom and which
have never been worn outside. We are very particular about keeping the mat
area clean and sanitary.
Belts
Belts should be worn at all times. Belts should be worn in a square knot (When
tied the knot should look like a fortune cookie). When a student is not in a lesson
the knot should be worn at the front. This shows that student is proud of their
rank. When in a lesson, knots should be at the side with the opening in the
square knot facing forward. We say the knowledge goes in the opening. Men
wear their knots at the left, women at the right. A knot in the center during a
lesson is taken as a challenge. Let the turning of the knot remind you that it is
time to open your eyes, your ears, and your mind and learn.
7
8. Lesson Etiquette's
Arrive at your lesson promptly, dressed and warmed up, ready to go. When your
instructor signifies that it is your lesson time, quickly gather up yourself or your
classmates and meet on the floor.
Talking in-group or a lesson should be kept to an absolute minimum.
Making suggestions to other students, or teaching, is absolutely
forbidden. This can be the most disruptive thing a student can do in
class. His/her partner will not learn because he is distracted from
listening to the instructor who is running the class and will also be
angered because he/she is there to learn from the instructor and not
the student. Surrounding students will also be distracted by listening to
"interpretation" of student. Students should never interpret or analyze how
something is said; student should only listen to what is said.
Some lessons may vary slightly from instructor to instructor. This may be for a
variety of reasons. Since many of the techniques may have multiple
interpretations and may be designed to teach you more than one principle,
different instructors may have different emphasis.
Also, for this reason do not attempt to teach something to someone else unless
you have been qualified to do so. You may not have the complete technique yet
and it would be a shame to teach your mistakes to someone else. It is much
harder to train out an old bad habit than it is to train a new one.
During your lesson be flexible enough to adapt to any variation, without question.
Although some things may seem contradictory, you may well find, with practice,
that what seemed like contradiction was really two ways of saying the same thing
Questions are generally disruptive. Often times questions are really statements;
these are considered rude and challenging. Usually a question will be answered
shortly by the instructor without it ever being asked. The system of teaching is
such that we build a technique in a way that the student has a full understanding
of it at the end of the lesson if he/she has been listening. Questions should only
be asked if student does not understand what the instructor is trying to get
across. If this is the case the student should tell the instructor that he/she doesn't
understand so that the instructor can explain in another way. A simple "I don't
understand" is usually the most appropriate.
Shou' Shu' is a complex art. It takes years to understand things which are now
being taught to you, although you will think that you understand them now, this
unfortunately is human nature and it tends to shut off the mind to new
understandings. Because of this you must completely trust that your instructor is
leading you along the correct path
If you have an injury which will not allow you to train with your usual rigor, inform
your instructor. The instructors are very capable of adapting your lessons to your
needs.
Please try to make at least two lessons per week. Some people are successful
while only attending one but most people do not have the self discipline to be
8
9. able to attend only one class and practice enough to succeed. Two or more
classes are recommended.
Quan Etiquette
Be careful and aware on the floor. Other students may make
quick turns or sudden movements, so always give each other
a wide berth. Never walk between an instructor and his/her
students. If you need to pass by a class pass at the rear of the
class.
We all keep our Quan clean and orderly. Everything has a
place, so when you use something, make sure that you return
it to that place. If you use the mat replace it, if you see
something that needs to be cleaned up, clean it up. Ask for
help if you need it. Alert studio coordinator if anything is in
need of repair.
Do not use unnecessary conversation as an excuse not to
work out. Remember you are not only keeping yourself from
working out but whomever you are talking to also.
This Quan is here for practice. Eating and drinking, smoking, alcohol and drug
use are inappropriate behavior within the training area. The use of profanity is not
allowed Profanity is not welcome in a place of learning.
Traditionally the hierarchy of the Quan is arranged like a big family. There are
children training in the Quan and they are the youngest members of our family. It
is the responsibility to act as a good role model for our youth.
Since our Quan is open to the public, we frequently have visitors interested in
training. If you see someone who looks lost ask them if they need help and direct
them to Shun Shifu or the studio coordinator.
If you decide to practice before or after group (and you are encouraged to do so)
be respectful of the lessons that are going on.
Never belittle another style of Martial art.
Students should never touch an upper rank belt without permission
Chewing gum is not permitted.
Everyone should be addressed by his or her proper title. I.e. Mr., Mrs., Miss,
Shifu, Shun Shifu, Da Shifu. First names are not acceptable except in the case of
females who are uncomfortable with this practice.
Students shall remove their shoes before entering the school. There are two
reasons for this. It is an ancient tradition, which shows humility. It also keeps the
mat area free of debris, which may be harmful.
Never walk through a class which is in session.
If you are late for a class and wish to join the class give a full salute to the
9
10. instructor of the class and quietly join the class.
No eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum in the studio.
Hygiene is extremely important in the studio. Students should be clean with
toenails kept short.
A student should never ask about his next rank test date. This shows lack of
patience, humility, and disrespect for your instructor's professional judgment. You
will be told when it is time for your test.
Control your emotions at all times. The studio is no place for emotional flares.
Teamwork
While Shou' Shu' is about personal development the
paradox is that you need others to maximize this
development. Teamwork is essential to the success of
everyone.
Teamwork can come in many forms. Primarily it comes
into play as a workout partner. Part of your training will
be playing the role of the assailant. You must play this
role as well as possible for the proper training of your
partner and your partner will do the same for you. Role
playing has nothing to do with sparring or trying to one
up the other person. You must concentrate on your role
and make the situation as realistic as possible. This is
not a time for sparring and playing around.
Teamwork is also holding bags and assisting each other in training in any way
possible.
One of the most important aspects of teamwork is encouragement. Being a good
role model for others. Do not stand and talk. Work out. Do your forms. Practice
your techniques. Help others. In this way everyone will develop together into the
best martial artist possible.
Have Fun
Have fun. Learning Shou' Shu can be a fun and enlightening experience. It
certainly will be difficult at times. But most of the time this is just your own ego.
Get over it. Get over yourself. We can't all, always shine. There are times when
we will shine and other times when we will be frustrated. This is the process at
work. Enjoy it. Have fun with it. Learn to laugh at yourself. Its not so bad.
10
11. Terms
Quan- School or training area. Also spelled Quan. Commonly called the studio. Japanese
arts use the term Dojo. We do not use this term
Ju'- Orange Belt
Zi'- Purple Belt
Lan'- Blue Belt
Lu' - Green Belt
He'- Brown Belt
Wu chi- Horse stance
Sha' Chi- Sha' chi is the opposite of Sheng Chi. It literally means "killing breath". Sha'
Chi can be either stagnant or destructive chi. Both are detrimental to health.
Sheng Chi- The simplest definition of Sheng chi is positive energy. However we can
delve deeper into the meaning. Sheng Chi is the term used when energy is in balance. It
literally means "cosmic breath" and is thought of as the life force. When chi is said to
flow in a meandering healthy pattern is said to be Sheng Chi. It is the life force that
causes growth. Sheng Chi's season is Spring and bamboo is typically used as it's symbol.
This is because Sheng Chi is associated with positive growth. Positive energy, to be
balanced in one's energy. The term Sheng Chi is used in Feng Shui to represent a state of
positive balance, all energies are in harmony. It is represented by the dragon's breath, or
life energy. Sheng Chi is another term for lucky or prosperous chi. When chi is balanced
and is flowing, then it is termed Sheng Chi. Sheng Chi brings openings, progress,
satisfaction, fertility and so on I.E. the blessings of life. Sheng Chi is positive, vital, life
bearing energy. Sheng Chi can be seen as the energy of spring, bringing growth to all it is
around. Sheng Chi is like fresh meandering water. It is the true auspicious life force.
Sheng - Of high moral character, upright, upstanding, or valuing morals.
Chi – energy
Sheng Chi Kung Fu- The name of our school. This is not to be confused with the name
of our art, Shou' Shu' Kung Fu. We often call it the Sheng Chi Training Center to try to
alleviate confusion.
Titles
Explanation of Titles
It's easiest to understand the meaning of these terms if you think of them in terms of a
family. The Da' Shifu being the grandfather. The Shun Shifu being the eldest son of the
grandfather. The Shifu's being the other sons of the grandfather. The brown belt is given
the title Shi Bok because he would have a family responsibility but not a direct
responsibility of raising the children (students). Like an uncle would. Shi Hing would
also have a responsibility to the family but a lesser responsibility than the Shi Bok. Shi
Hing is like an older cousin.
11
12. Si Jo (Shi Gung)- The creator of the art. This is not necessarily reserved for the original
creator of the art. The term is used for a grand master who has contributed to the art and
created a grandmaster below him.
Da' Shifu- The title for the grand Master (teacher of teachers or the great teacher). Da'
Shifu- Grand master. Common usage of this term is to define a master who has mastered
all eight degrees. Proper usage is to denote the top shifu of a system. The term is properly
only used in reference to other shifu's. As the term shifu literally means master, father, or
teacher. The term Da' Shifu means Grand master, Grandfather, or Grand teacher.
Shun Shifu- The title for the schools master and head instructor. Literally means "chosen
father" or "first son". This is in reference to the Da' shifu. A Shun Shifu would be the
eldest shifu.
Shifu- The title for a black belt instructor. The term literally means master, teacher, or
father.
Shi Mu- A female black belt. This term is not in common usage. It is the female version
of Shifu. I don't advise using this term. The female black belts prefer to go by Shifu.
Something about the way it sounds.
She' Bok- The term for a brown belt. Not in common usage. Literally this term means
uncle.
She'Hing- The term for a lower level male instructor. Not in common usage. Literally
means cousin.
She'Jie- The term for a lower level female instructor. Not in common usage. Literally
means cousin
12