Where To Learn Martial Arts in Hong Kong

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Wing Chun is a style of close-combat kung fu that was developed by Shaolin monks in the 18th century. It is most famously associated with the international action star Bruce Lee. Wan Kam Leung‘s “Practical Wing Chun” is a modernised form of Wing Chun, with an emphasis on self-defence. This compact studio in Yau Ma Tei holds co-ed classes twice a day, as well as separate classes for women and children.

Systema is a Russian fighting technique developed during the Soviet era, based on Cossack techniques dating back to the 10th century. Here, you’ll train for real-life scenarios where you may have to defend yourself through repeated grappling and striking drills. Systema Hong Kong has locations in Mongkok and Causeway Bay. Rather than holding beginner and advanced classes separately, students of all levels train together.

This studio near Mong Kok has a fully equipped gym with 110 sq m (118 sq ft) of mat space for grappling and wrestling. The gym’s primary focus is Brazilian jiu-jitsu, a South American martial art that uses leverage to bring the opponent to the ground and overpower them with a range of pins, takedowns and choke holds. In addition, judo, kickboxing and yoga classes are also offered. If you’re looking to test the water, Hong Kong Jiu-Jitsu offers a trial class free of charge.

Abira Boxing is a fitness centre in Mongkok that offers personal training and group classes in muay thai boxing. This combat sport focuses on a range of full contact-fighting techniques including striking, kicking and punching. It’s often called “the art of eight limbs” because fighters use their knees and elbows to strike as well as their fists and shins. It’s a great option for those looking to build muscle and tone their physique.

Impakt is one of Hong Kong’s biggest fitness and MMA gyms, and it’s equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including a full-size boxing ring. At Impakt, you can sign up for classes in karate, boxing, muay thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, MMA and kickboxing. There’s also a “Bootcamp” class aimed at building all-round fitness (it’s as intense as it sounds). If you don’t want to commit to a monthly membership, Impakt lets you pay a drop-in fee for each class.

Heng Yue Yen Long Kwon is a modern Chinese boxing style that’s based on traditional kung fu. It combines new and traditional kicking, punching and weapons techniques into a modern and practical fighting system. There are a range of classes available, including weapons training, black-belt training, and a self-defence class for women.

We find out more about the history of martial arts cinema in Hong Kong in this episode of Beyond Hollywood.