Cuong Nhu

Cuong Nhu (pronounced Kung Nu) is an synthetic martial art, developed originally by Dr. Ngo Dong of Vietnam in 1965 at the University of Hue. He synthesized a system that blends elements of Shotokan Karate, Wing Chun, Judo, Aikido, Tai Chi Chuan, Boxing, and Vo Vi Nam. As the art has matured it has added elements of Neko-ryu and various weapons forms.

Cuong Nhu translates as Hard-Soft, and integrates both hard and soft techniques into its own system. Students at lower levels focus on learning hard techniques, blocking, kicking, etc. and then move onto softer styles of blocks and throws. Emphasis is given to the loading of techniques, and turning the loads into attacks. Kata movements and stances concentrate on drawing all force to the center, and then explosively performing the techniques.

Cuong Nhu first came from Vietnam to the United States in 1971 with Dr. Dong, and finally relocated its headquarters to the U.S. in 1977, following the escape of the doctor and his family. The first U.S. dojo was founded at the University of Florida in Gainesville. The style has spread to 67 dojos across the U.S. and several in other countries. The current head of Cuong Nhu is Grandmaster Quynh Ngo.

Basic instruction uses Kata (set movement patterns) to teach the student various stances, blocks, punches, kicks, and applications of the movements in self-defense techniques. Cuong Nhu includes at higher levels the study of weapons, including the bo (long staff), tambo (half staff), tonfa, sai, and spear.

External link

• Cuong Nhu Oriental Martial Arts