Chinese Martial Arts (Kung Fu) VS Old School Boxing: A Comparative Study

When it comes to comparing Chinese Martial Arts (Kung Fu) and old-school boxing, many modern martial arts practitioners might dismiss any similarities between the two with a scoff and a shake of their heads. It's not difficult to see why – today, the majority of Chinese Martial Arts schools focus on forms, practicing punches and kicks in the air, wielding weapons, and engaging in solo routines. On the other hand, modern boxers spend their time hitting pads and bags, participating in partner drills and sparring sessions, all with the ultimate goal of stepping into the ring to fight another skilled boxer.

In this article, we will delve into the intriguing past of both practices and explore the common ground they once shared, shedding light on their historical roots and evolution over time. By gaining a deeper understanding of their shared origins, we can gain a fresh perspective on how these disciplines have diverged in the present day. Join us on this fascinating journey to uncover the untold connections between Chinese Martial Arts and old-school boxing.

Pre-Queensberry Rules Boxing vs Pre-20th Century Chinese Martial Arts

Before the introduction of Queen'sberry rules in 1867, boxing was more of a holistic practice and incorporated various wrestling techniques as well as some submissions. These techniques encompassed trips, reaps, hip throws, cross buttock throws, and numerous others. Boxers of that era often acquired wrestling skills to earn a living as both performance wrestlers and boxers. It was not uncommon for them to showcase their talents in combined wrestling and boxing performances, capitalizing on their versatility in both disciplines. The inclusion of wrestling techniques in pre-Queen'sberry rules boxing added a unique dimension to the sport, showcasing the diverse abilities and showmanship of the athletes involved.

The 19th century in China was marked by turmoil, famine, and civil wars, which consequently spurred the development of numerous martial arts systems. Many of these systems likely originated from wrestling techniques, as the main form of unarmed practice for the Qing Dynasty army was Chinese wrestling known as Shuia jiao. It is believed that Kung Fu practitioners probably took the movements of Chinese Wrestling and incorporated strikes, kicks and even some submissions to make it into a well-rounded fighting system.

Both pre-Queensberry rules boxing and pre-20th century Chinese martial arts (Kung Fu) share a common origin, in that they were both practiced in a holistic way and where developed to deal with any martial situation in a multitude of contexts. The inclusion of trips, throws, and other wrestling manoeuvres in pre-Queensberry rules boxing added an element of versatility and showmanship to the sport, allowing boxers to display their skills beyond traditional punches and strikes. Similarly, the development of Chinese martial arts systems in turbulent 19th century China drew heavily from wrestling techniques, such as those found in Shuia jiao, with many of the modern day forms of Kung Fu showing the wrestling techniques from the past.

However, over time, both sports have undergone significant transformations. Modern boxing has become a specialized sport, focused primarily on fighting other boxers within a controlled environment. The emphasis has shifted from incorporating a wide range of techniques to developing specific boxing skills. On the other hand, Kung Fu, while still practiced today, has lost much of its practicality as a martial art. Many of the traditional techniques and forms are now primarily performed as demonstrations or for health and fitness purposes, rather than for combative applications.

 
The Evolution of Martial Arts

Over the past century and a half, both Kung Fu and Boxing have undergone significant transformations. Boxing has developed into a highly specialized sport tailored for fighting other boxers, while modern Kung Fu has shifted its focus more towards performance rather than combat.

While boxing continues to thrive as a competitive combat sport, modern Kung Fu seems to have lost some of its combative effectiveness. Initially designed to be versatile and practical in any situation, akin to modern MMA, both disciplines have diverged and carved out their own unique places within contemporary martial arts.

Despite these differences, it is important to recognize the evolution of both Kung Fu and Boxing as a testament to the ever-changing nature of martial arts. Adapting to the demands and preferences of practitioners and audiences, these disciplines have found their respective niches and continue to evolve in their own distinctive ways.

REVITALISING the Combat Essence of Kung Fu

In recent times, the combative essence of Kung Fu has regrettably diminished. However, amidst this decline, a few remarkable exceptions have emerged, breathing new life into the martial art's combative aspects.

One notable development is the rise of Sanda kickboxing. This discipline skilfully blends the comprehensive techniques of Kung Fu with a specialized focus on sport-specific application, akin to boxing. Embracing its wrestling origins, Sanda kickboxing preserves the efficacy of traditional Kung Fu as a formidable fighting system. Today, it continues to evolve and thrive as a dynamic martial art.

Furthermore, a resurgence of interest in the combative practice of traditional Kung Fu has taken place over the past decade. Some institutions (unfortunately still very few) are striving to reconnect with their roots and reintroduce Kung Fu as a practical and holistic style capable of effectively adapting to diverse combat scenarios. The ongoing evolution of this movement holds great intrigue as we anticipate its future development in the coming decades.

The future of Kung Fu holds promise as it evolves and adapts to modern contexts. With renewed focus on its combative roots, we can expect to witness a reinvigorated martial art that combines the time-honoured wisdom of the past with contemporary effectiveness. The path ahead is intriguing, and it will be fascinating to observe the continued development of Kung Fu in the decades to come.

Here are some links to modern day practitioners of Kung Fu who we believe are leading the rebirth of the art and are well worth a watch:

https://www.youtube.com/@Mantisboxers

https://www.youtube.com/@practicalhungkyun

https://www.instagram.com/kungfu.fit/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEQ3MQFe2tQ

If you are interested in learning the combative origins of Kung Fu you are always welcome to come for a free trial at Sanda Kickboxing Academy. Click here to book your taster session and start discovering the true nature of Kung Fu today!