What is Taifudo? It could more appropriately be said “what isn’t Tai Fu Do?” First and foremost, it must be made clear that Tai Fu Do is not a new martial art.The word Taifudo refers to two things: in one context it refers to the self-defence system developed and created by Ajarn (teacher) Chiwin. The second, more encompassing definition is reference to the Tai Fu Do Academy, a venue for the consolidation and preservation of knowledge from a wide palette of sources from within the vast martial arts realm.
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Taifudo Defence
Taifudo as a self-defence system refers to a curriculum devised by Ajarn Chiwin, and is drawn from his deep knowledge in a broad spectrum of martial arts. The focus is on practicality and applicability in multiple situations. Natural movement and realistic self-defence techniques are utilized to counter dangerous situations commonly encountered in today’s social environment. The techniques were created with both non-life threatening and dire situations in mind. The first stages of Taifudo work on strengthening the body through drills and exercise. Today’s lifestyles, replete with modern conveniences, have weakened the average person’s constitution. Once the body has a strong foundation, one is ready to receive more advanced techniques derived from traditional styles of martial arts. This includes locking, striking, throwing, grappling, forms, push-hands, and weapons.
Taifudo Academy
Taifudo Academy’s repertoire includes Chinese arts (Kung Fu and Tai Chi), Thai arts (various styles of traditional Muay Thai), as well as Japanese and Korean arts, all of which employ both unarmed and weapon training. These arts are taught in their traditional forms, with a myriad of applications. In this way, Tai Fu Do strives to preserve the roots (forms) of martial arts while growing the branches (techniques), so that the art will neither become outdated nor change its essence, remaining an interesting and practical art in the face of today’s every evolving social circumstances.
Ajarn Chiwin hopes for this Academy to become a “library” to safe-keep martial arts of whatever style or status, as well as a venue for others to share knowledge and experience. As less-commercial martial arts knowledge can be in danger of dying along with the Master, this nucleus of accumulated knowledge will aim to prevent this from occurring. Knowing the mindset and thinking of the original teachers is crucial for proper understanding. In sum, it can be said that Tai Fu Do is not a style, but a martial art way.
