The Shaolin monks of China have a reputation for being strong and quick in reflexes. They believe that the strength comes from the mind, and hence there are almost no limits to what their bodies can endure. Shaolin kung fu is believed to be the oldest institutionalized style of kung fu and is one of the most famous martial arts. It originated in the Buddhist Shaolin temple and during the 1500 years of its development, it has become one of the biggest schools of kung fu with various barehanded and weapon styles.
The monks practice techniques centered around balance, strength, endurance, and self defense. They can endure incredible amounts of pain while barely flinching. The design and arrangements of their movements are based on the medical knowledge of ancient China and conforms to the rule of movement of the human body.
These incredible images of Shaolin monks training were taken by photographer, Tomasz Gudzowaty.
