Legends say the first martial arts system was developed at the fabled Shaolin Temple located in the Hunan province of southern China around the 5th Century AD. It began when an Indian monk named Bodhidharma came to the temple. He is credited as the principle source for all martial arts styles, or at the very least, for any style which traces its roots back to this Shaolin Temple.

Detailed Histories: Shaolin Temple  Bruce Lee   Grandmaster Doc Fai Wong

Shaolin Monks say that Bodhidharma traveled to Shaolin-si (small forest temple) China in 526 where he spend many years teaching Zen Buddhism. During this time he introduced a system of physical and breathing exercises which developed into what is now known as Kung Fu. Bodhidharma developed the physical exercises by watching and imitating the natural movements of different animals; ie: praying mantis, tiger, crane, horse, monkey, snake and dragon. The breathing exercises were developed to keep the inner organs healthy so as to improve one's Chi, the ability to reach inside and to draw power from within the body itself.

TIGER KUNG FU - RENO
Now Zai XMA

Reno Nevada is fortunate to have a direct link to the Shaolin Temple. In the heart of Reno is Tiger Kung Fu. This kung fu school is part of the Plum Blossom International Kung Fu Federation; with direct linage to the temple through Sifu Zai and Grandmaster Doc-Fai Wong. Tiger Kung Fu - Reno teaches all traditional kung fu forms; tiger, crane, dragon, leopard etc. and 37 chinese weapons. They are also the location in Reno for Tai Chi Chuan. There are are group and private lessons available for both adults and children. Tiger Kung Fu has a 5 star rating and is located in Reno Nevada at 5401 Longley Lane. (775) 824-0400. Tell them you heard about them here and get a free two week trial!