Chans Martial Arts was founded in 1975 by Sifu S C Chan and has become quite an institution over the last twenty years. Our system of Shao Chi Chuan , (the Small Ultimate System) or commonly known as "The Stressfree Way" is relatively easy to learn and use because of the unique syllabus. We begin with a less demanding but more practical syllabus, leading to a graduated scale of physical and mental intensification.

It deploys biomechanically sound self defence techniques and psychologically positive teaching methods. This results in the elimination of excessive physical and mental stress which is omnipresent in many conventional martial arts.

Most of the drills are designed for effective combat as well as to 'switch on' the body and enhance neuromuscular activity with repetition. It can improve the students co-ordination, concentration, temperament, health and work productivity. It is important to note that not all physical activities achieve these goals, some physical activities 'switch off' the body and retard brain function.

Its hallmark is its dynamic but flowing and relaxed movements that enhance the body function rather than over-stress it. Shao Chi Chuan deploys natural long and short range combat techniques, holds and throws, internal energy development and application to co-ordinated pressure points. All these are based on time tested classical principles. It can be described as a modern interface between the very hard Shao Lin Chuan and the very soft Tai Chi Chuan which is the only curriculum for our advanced student.

As  Bruce Lee  once said: "The more relaxed you can be, the faster and more powerful you will become"

Shao Chi Chuan is a very relaxed and flowing Martial Art. It does not involve repeatedly bashing until the subject falters. Nor is it a soft option. The soft flowing actions are crucial for the development of correct technique, relaxation, co ordination, and accuracy. The amazing thing is that not only does this relaxed style help prevent injuries caused by excessive or unnecessary force, but it develops more power than a harder, more forceful approach.

Shao Chi Chuan does not specialise in specific areas, such as grappling or kicking or throws, but is designed as a Complete Martial Art. If I believed there was a better way to achieve the best form of Self Defence, I would be practicing it.

Shao Chi Chuan emphasizes techniques which are less stressful on the body and less prone to injury. In order to get better at anything, you must practice. Injury hinders practice.

During my years as a Martial Artist, I have met many Ex Martial Artists who have given up due to injury. These people are strong and powerful people who are good at their Art. However, they have one thing in common: body damaging technique. It's not what you do but how you do it.

Although Shao Chi Chuan deploys principles that are entirely found in classical Tai Chi Chuan, the supreme martial art, there is good reason to practice this Shao Chi Chuan first. Tai Chi Chuan, and good Shao Lin Chuan, are both very difficult to master, requiring years of very dedicated training before any effective self defense capability is acquired, whereas Shao Chi Chuan can be very practical in weeks.

It also differs from mere kickboxing, as it's emphasis is not in competition but to be a complete martial art with its traditional discipline and values . It also develops the student's understanding of the principles required to gradually pursue and master the ultra sophisticated art of Tai Chi Chuan. which is more often than not, badly misunderstood and practiced.



For more detailed information regarding the principles and fudamentals of Shao Chi Chuan, see:- Headquarters website