Wu Dang Kung Fu Academy written By: Shaileen Kelly Landsberg
Kung Fu, the ancient and best-known of the Chinese martial arts, is, according to Encyclopedia Britannica, “exercise with a spiritual dimension, stemming from concentration and self-discipline…” Also called Wushu, its practice, using graceful forms, kicks, punches, and even weapons, can be used for self-defense and combat, and has a strong focus on strength, balance, coordination, and self-control.
Photo: Paula Severino
Wu Dang Kung Fu Academy, located at 518 Boston Post Road, is a wonderful location for both children and adults to learn this martial art. The academy has been serving the Milford/Orange area for fourteen years and from the beginning, owners and Orange residents Master Jack Guo and his wife Lei Cheng have had a strong commitment to helping their students learn Kung Fu and continue their practice. Not only do they train in self-defense, but they have also led teams from the academy to local, national, and international competitions, and have won and placed in many. Trophies and medals are proudly displayed at the academy.
Youth and Adult Classes Classes in both traditional and contemporary Kung Fu are held at Wu Dang Kung Fu Academy. Master Jack explained “adult classes are more traditional-style Shaolin Kung Fu,” with focus on self-defense, balance and strengthening, and most youth programs are “contemporary-style, which includes weapon forms.” The couple greatly expanded their space at the academy in the spring. The bright, cheerful, welcoming environment now boasts two approximately 2,000 square-foot exercise rooms. One exercise room contains an adjacent sporting area with sparring bags, and the other has 38 |
Owner, Jack Guo
a barre-lined wall. There is a friendly reception area showcasing photos and trophies of important academy moments and achievements, and also a well-appointed classroom. Although the center has been closed during the COVID19 pandemic, they have recently reopened partially with new hours. Lei says, “We are anxious to get back to doing what we love and having classes on a regular basis.”
After-School Program In addition, just before the pandemic hit, Master Jack and Lei offered
OrangeLife
a new program at Wu Dang Kung Fu Academy, a Monday through Friday afterschool program, with transportation from school to the academy available for students in Orange and Milford. This unique, fun, and engaging program is intended to run on school days from 3 pm to 6 pm, with late pickup available. But with schools moving to partially remote learning, this program is on hold currently. They are looking to bring it back as soon as the situation allows.
WINTER 2020
