“Everybody was Kung Fu fighting!” – You’ve heard the song, now join in for yourself.

UCLan’s Hung Kuen Shaolin Kung Fu club is a great way to relieve the stresses of assignments and keep you fit.

Shaolin Kung Fu is based on the ancient Chinese teachings of the Shaolin monks from thousands of years ago.

Greg Marl, Chairman of UCLan’s Shaolin Kung Fu club said: “It’s one of the most beautiful martial arts you will ever see.

“We teach attack and defence movements.

“We aim to harness the techniques of the five sacred animals which are the Dragon, Tiger, Leopard, Snake and Crane.

“The programme involves developing mental well being as well as physical.”

Greg said a typical training session starts with a warm-up before moving onto the development of specific techniques and moves.

“We concentrate on arm and leg movements and you learn all the basics – front kicks, sidekicks, front punches and spears. It keeps you really fit and improves your body’s circulation,” he added.

Quang Vinh Tran is the club’s instructor. He has 18 years of Kung Fu experience. Quang said: “Shaolin Kung Fu is really good exercise. It teaches you self-defence and you can learn a good manner.”

Last year, the club were one of the star attractions in Preston’s Chinese New Year celebrations when they performed routines at the Guild Hall.

Greg is hoping for an increase in members this year. He said: “We had about 25 members last year. There was a mix of boys and girls and we had French, Chinese and Belgian members too. This year we want lots of new people to join.”

He also said you don’t need to be an expert to join. “When I joined three years ago I didn’t know anything. But I soon picked it up and we start at beginners level anyway,” he added.

The club is sponsored by The Ship Inn near the Students’ Union and members often meet there after training.

Kung Fu club now have a social secretary and are planning social events at Preston’s top nightspots including Lava and Squires this year.

Training takes place at Foster Sports Centre on a Wednesday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm and on Saturdays from midday to 2pm.

So if you want to be a part of an ancient, traditional art while keeping fit and healthy, why not give Shaolin Kung Fu a go?

For more information you can visit the club’s Facebook page by searching ‘UCLan Kung Fu club’ or emailing sukungfu@uclan.ac.uk.