Kung Fu Classes vs. Karate Classes in Amsterdam

Both Kung Fu and Karate classes in Amsterdam are very popular for (young) children. Although there are differences between these two self-defense sports, Kung Fu and Karate also share many similarities. These similarities can be explained by the fact that the development of Karate was influenced by Kung Fu. It is evident that both sports have great appeal to children and adults. On this page, we will discuss the differences and similarities.

Both sports place great emphasis on respect, discipline, self-confidence, and other important (life) skills that children carry with them for the rest of their lives. Elements that KEI sees as very valuable for the development of the child. Both Karate and Kung Fu involve a lot of contact. And although the type of contact is not exactly the same, both sports make the child stronger. Additionally, attention is given to posture so that children stand firmly on their feet, an element that is also very important outside of sports. And of course, there is the mental aspect. Children develop more self-control, self-confidence, and perseverance. Skills that also come in handy at school when a child finds themselves in a difficult situation or in conflict with another child.

How do you know if Kung Fu or Karate classes in Amsterdam are better for your child? For this, it is important to mention a few differences. Karate is a martial art that originated in Japan. Kung Fu, on the other hand, originated in China. Nevertheless, Karate exercises, just like in Kung Fu, are aimed at becoming stronger. Becoming strong does not mean increasing physical strength, but achieving balance both mentally and physically and elevating it to a higher level.

Because Karate exercises have more stop-and-go movements, it is often seen as a hard fighting style. Kung Fu movements, on the other hand, are more circular. That does not mean that Kung Fu is less powerful than Karate. On the contrary, Kung Fu has more techniques and movements than Karate. The way energy and movement are used is therefore different, and what suits your child best is a matter of trying out. Of course, your child can always schedule a trial class at KEI.

At KEI Kung Fu, we start from within and focus not only on the physical and external element

What is Kung Fu?

Kung Fu is an ancient martial art originating from China. Contrary to popular belief, Kung Fu was not developed by the monks in Shaolin. However, these monks did have a positive influence on it. For the monks, three pillars were always central to their way of life, and these three pillars still form the basis at KEI Kung Fu today: balance between mind, body, and spirit.

With the arrival of Chinese people in Europe, and of course through the fame of Bruce Lee and his teacher Yip Man, Kung Fu has become indispensable in the Western world as well. A popular style within Kung Fu is Wing Chun, characterized by short and fast movements. Legend has it that Mrs. Yim Wing Chun developed this style for physically weaker people. The style is suitable for everyone, regardless of age and gender. Learn to know and control your own body to defeat stronger opponents.

Development of life skills at KEI Kung Fu in Amsterdam

Children become more aware of their body and movements around the age of 6. Therefore, at KEI Kung Fu, we advise starting Kung Fu before this age, from their 4th year. In this way, we influence the child’s unconscious and create certain physical habits that, as a child grows older, become automatisms. We make them unconsciously competent.

It is important that young children (4 to 6 years) enjoy Kung Fu. Therefore, at the monkeys, we focus on physically strengthening children in a playful way, as opposed to traditional Kung Fu. For older children (6 to 11 years), the focus is on other elements, because children of this age are capable of learning more complex movements. During the lessons, the focus is on the development of discipline, self-confidence, and improving verbal skills, among other things.

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