Why should I start Kung Fu?
The benefits of kung fu practice are HUGE! It can enhance your physical strength, coordination, balance, flexibility, and stamina. Everything that you do in your life becomes a bit easier because of it. It not only trains your body it trains your mind too! This results in improved self-awareness, discipline, confidence and will power. Not only will you become more confident that you can defend yourself, but your confidence to tackle all of life’s trials will grow.
How often should I practice?
That is a very common question that has an easy answer. Whenever you have time! We suggest setting aside at least 3 hours per week for practicing outside of class, that is only 10 minutes per day! Obviously the more you practice, the better you will become. The more you practice outside of class, the less repeating we need to do during class to have you caught back up to speed from the previous sessions!
How often are classes?
Please reach out to inquire schedule of classes and/or private sessions.
How old should a child be before starting?
Age 7 seems about the perfect age to start. Students younger than 7 years old need to ‘Try Out’ to see if it is a good fit for them and our system. We do have a few 4, 5 and 6 year old kids that have shown that they have developed far enough to pay proper attention and sit still enough to listen without causing distraction for the other students. The style we do at Jun Bao is geared for Self Defense and that is sometimes just not possible to teach a 4 year old in an effective manner.
Am I too old to start?
The Jun Bao system is great for students of all ages, although a physical exam and doctor’s OK is would be a good idea for anyone older than age 60 or so. Older students may not be a strong or fast as the younger students, however their wisdom, dedication and practice to the art can make them a very effective martial artist & it can help them in their everyday lives.
How coordinated and physically fit do I have to be to practice?
Most world champions, like any top athlete, were probably well-coordinated natural athletes before they began their training. Most of us, however, come to it in order to become more coordinated and physically fit. So the brief answer is, “not very”. Even if you feel like the world’s biggest klutz you can still practice. By doing so, your coordination and fitness will greatly improve.
Will I get hurt practicing?
Training can be very rigorous. Bumps, bruises and sore muscles are not uncommon. Serious injuries are extremely uncommon because we emphasize physical and mental control as well as respect for your training partner. The result is that practice can be considerably safer than many other popular sports such as basketball and soccer.
How long must I train before I can defend myself?
The ability to defend oneself from attack is dependent on many factors. Certainly, the longer you train, the more able you will become. The probability of success is relative to the strength and ability of the defender vs. that of the attacker(s). It is important to realize; however, that there are no guarantees! It is possible for a beginner to get lucky or an advanced person to be caught during an inattentive moment. This uncertainty is one of the practical reasons why strategies that reduce the chance of conflict are more important to self-defense than physical prowess. Beyond all that, a beginner should think on the order of years (as opposed to weeks or months) before he/she begins to be proficient.
Will I have to compete in tournaments?
While we encourage participation in the tournaments, our answer is only if you want to! We participate in a number of regular competitions as a supplemental form of training and a means to test skills. Competition is stressed as an important, but optional, training opportunity. Tournaments are not usually forced. More important is development of body, mind and a non-violent philosophy.
What do I call the teacher?
Sifu
What are the belts (ranks) in karate and how long does it take to reach them?
Kids:
White
Yellow
Orange
Green
Blue
Brown
Black
Adults:
White
Brown
Black
What are the system rules and regulations?
Please see our “Code of Ethics” page.
How old is Jun Bao?
Please read James Ibrao Bio.
Who started Jun Bao?
Sifu James Ibrao.
Are there videos available for purchase?
Yes
Can I get graded after I learn the system from a video or someone else?
Ranking can only be done by in person by Grand Master Sifu’s Ronald Rioja or Daniel Mansion.
Jun Bao Gung Fu 