Chinese PE classes might train the next kung fu master
- A school in Xian is teaching a centuries-old Chinese martial art to its students and claims 80 per cent of the kids are proficient after the programme started.
- It is another example of schools teaching martial arts in classes, which is part of a national revival of focus on traditional Chinese culture.
Physical Education (PE) classes are famous for jogging around a track, dodgeball and the occasional competitive sporting match.
But a primary school in the central city of Xian is finding success with a much older activity: a centuries-old Chinese martial art.
Three years ago, the school began to try out teaching Hong Quan, or red fist, a type of martial art famous for its focus on precision and skill. School principal Yin Junlong told the online media outlet Sohu that it is now a regular offering in PE classes.
“Almost 80 per cent of our students can perform the Hong Quan after three years of the classes,” Yin said.
The school’s promotion of Hong Quan was partially the result of a meeting with Shao Zhiyong, the director of the Shaanxi Hong Quan Culture Research Association, who attended a promotional event at the school and told Sohu that it is cost-effective for schools to teach martial arts.
“You do not need too much space to practice martial arts and it is relatively easy and safe,” Shao said. He emphasised that the practice will enhance students’ coordination and balance.
