We don't own the patent on what works in the street; we just are able to put it in a system that saves time and effort. We are lucky enough to learn from people who share the need to know what works and how to train it. But we're NOT the only ones with the keys to the city. The other day, one of our Professional Instructors Michael Christopher (his blog reddragonunderground.blogspot.com) faxed me an article from a book written by his late Kung Fu Sifu Lueng Shum. He taught Eagle Claw Kung Fu, the book EAGLE CLAW Kung-Fu Classical Northern Chinese Fist was published by Ying Jow Pai Chinese Martial Art 369-311 West 34th Street, NY, NY 10001 in 1980. The following are excerpts of the article.
"Good form is not good fighting and good fighting is not good form in itself. When you are practicing you must move with the knowledge of forms and when you do forms you must be consciously aware of the fighting techniques you are using. With both it is necessary to cultivate good power and Chi."
"On the street awareness is what works best for you. What's going on around you? See that drunk walking towards you? Don't look away in distaste- know where he is. If there is an angry or suspicious bunch across the street, keep quiet, keep moving and keep observing their actions. Know where they are."
"Are there many? Get to the nearest and then run. Don't stand still. Run and fight together. Take the nearest one out as quickly and cruelly as you can without getting caught in a tangle - the shin bon is the best target for a quick, sharp kick designed to break. Never let them get behind you and escape without hesitation when the opportunity opens. If opportunity does not open then get your back protected from a wall or car. Take the strongest one as ruthlessly as you can....Keep your mind clear and your eyes darting everywhere for a way out or a weapon such as you can find handy."
"You must always be prepared to deal with a concealed weapon on the street and be ready to use whatever is at hand yourself."
"The chief aspect of self-defense is razor sharp psychology. It is the willingness to close out the enemy's move and put him down locked and hurt which is the essence of street fighting. (You) should be mild ad gentle, maintaining a low profile in order to avoid fighting. But when reason of mind fails and violence is initiated it is the clear, calm mind that will quickly and brutally end the violence. Do not display any evidence of (training) before hand in either word or posture- keep your self-defense in the center of yourself."
No Hollywood wire fighting here. It is clear that Master Shum had a real understanding bout fighting for your life.
He also knows the difference and the purpose of martial art, combat sport and self defense. I know Mike is fortunate to have spent time with him and speaks of him highly. It's ironic that of all Kung fu has to offer, that this mentality rarely comes through. We're use to pretty forms and flashy technique. Master Shum mentions that these are important, but stresses when it comes to fighting for your life, it must be simple, straight forward effective and cruel. I also like the last paragraph about remaining humble. I know these are the reason Mike has become a Self Defense Company Professional Instructor. He has searched long and hard to find a system and a vehicle that mostly reflects his training and beliefs. Thanks for sharing Mike.
To contact Mike about his experiences with this amazing person and training with Mike, email him at
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Chinese Martial Arts 
