A journey of discovery 

It started as you might expect – regular Power Rangers on Saturday mornings and then Kung Fu Panda inspiring our six year old, Daniel, to spring around the room declaring “Watch me do Kung Fu”. Over the following days and weeks his interest continued, and after regular requests for Kung Fu lessons we found the Nam Pai Chuan school in Chiswick.

From the first lesson, Daniel was hooked. Over the coming weeks we watched his confidence grow in the lessons, but also in himself. We were also impressed with the supportive nature of the group with older, more experienced children helping the junior members of the class.

Having watched Daniel enjoy his lessons for six months we both became interested in trying the class for different ourselves – for one it was an alternative to the gym, and for the other it was self-defence given a recent attack in the street.

Early lessons were challenging but enjoyable, and the supportive nature of the group was evident in adult class as much as the children’s. We found the classes very varied, with a strong blend of traditional martial arts, physical development and modern practical experience.

The further we progress into the system, the more challenging the training has become. Over time our fitness, flexibility and stamina have developed significantly through regular training. In addition we’ve developed a level of self-awareness that extends beyond Kung Fu into our day-to-day lives.

After several years we’ve all reached the same grade and train together, making Kung Fu a regular part of family life. Whilst studying a martial art is an individual journey of discovery, we are fortunate to travel the road with our closest and dearest.