Shaolin Fist
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Shaolin Fist is a generic English term for Shaolin Kung Fu, although it can refer to actual punching styles within Shaolin Kung Fu.[1] The proper term is usually described in various texts as Shaolin quan.[2] "Shaolin Fist" or "Shaolin Kung Fu" developed within the 7th century C.E. in the Tang dynasty with the earliest description being the defense of the Shaolin monastery from bandits. Various legends are associated with the development of the "Shaolin fist" including the legend of Bodhidharma, a wandering Buddhist monk, and the Yellow Emperor or Huang Di, one of the legendary founders of China.[3] Currently, Shaolin Kung Fu is popular internationally beginning with the depiction in movies by the actor/martial artist Bruce Lee in the 1960's followed by further movies and television shows that center around the Shaolin temple.
