Pai Lum Kung Fu teaches effective self defence alongside how to achieve inner harmony. In this sponsored post, we speak to Grand Master Neal Hardy about the benefits, and how people of all ages and experiences can participate. 

Grand Master Neal Hardy, chief instructor of Fire Dragon Australia, teaches Pai Lum, or White Dragon, Kung Fu, to Canberrans of all ages and experience levels.

Pai Lum Kung Fu is a traditional Chinese martial art, which teaches effective self defence alongside how to achieve inner harmony.

Through meditation and Chi Gung exercises, both of which focus on internal energy and are integral to the training, Neal says Pai Lum helps students find a release from the stresses of everyday life.

“Students also find that training increases their self confidence, and ability to be assertive when required,” he says.

“So the benefits of training help students in all aspects of their lives.”

Neal says that while fitness is, of course, a key element to all martial arts – it is not necessary to be in perfect shape in order to start Pai Lum.

“Training will improve your strength, your flexibility and your cardio-vascular fitness as you work within your limits and learn how to extend those limits,” he says.

“And, the fun element is important – learning how to perform spinning techniques, spectacular jumping and flying kicks, to spar with other students, and have the opportunity to learn [to use] traditional Chinese weapons.”

Neal explains that Pai Lum is a long-range style, and uses a variety of punching and kicking techniques. However, they also train students in close-range blocks and strikes, which are of great importance and use, together with Chinese grappling techniques.

As a family style business, Neal says Fire Dragon takes care of all students no matter their age, gender, experience or fitness capability, and everyone is assisted on the journey of learning.

“Students are encouraged to treat each other as brothers and sisters, and to take care of each other in class,” says Neal.

“This means that we do not fight each other in tournaments or bouts – although in training we do everything we can to improve ourselves and each other!”

Neal says that as a student of Pai Lum, “you will be asked to do your best,” and that due to each student having different abilities and potential, teaching and progress is tailored to individual requirements.

Fire Dragon always takes particular care to ensure children feel safe and valued, says Neal, and as someone who has recently turned 70 himself, Neal also encourages older Canberrans to consider training.

Fire Dragon Australia, meets at the All Saints Church Hall, Cowper Street, Ainslie. Call 0421 849551 or visit
firedragon.com.au