Shaolin monks teach Shaolin Kong Fu class at Stanford University

Shaolin monks from the Shaolin Temple USA started teaching a weekly mind-body fitness class at Stanford University, from the winter quarter of 2011.“The big plus is that I’m learning real kung fu from real Shaolin monks, whom I would have no access to if I were still in China – all under the California sun,” said one Stanford staff member who is enrolled in the class.The Shaolin Kong Fu class is sponsored by the university’s Health Improvement Program. 30-year-old Master Shi Ranyan, who began his training at the legendary Songshan Shaolin Temple in central China when he was 9 years old, teaches the class, accompanied by six other monks, ranging in age from 18 to 27. It is a weekly hour-long class, which takes place in a courtyard behind the Medical School Office Building on Welch Road.

The class aims to help participants achieve a harmony of body and mind, through practicing Shaolin Kong Fu exercises.“I was pleased at the initial response and am happy that the interest continues to be pretty high,” said Jerrie Thurman, group fitness program manager with the Health Improvement Program, who decided to offer this class at Stanford University after reviewing Shaolin Temple USA.Master Yanran said Shaolin Kung Fu is different than other martial arts systems because it incorporates the teachings of Buddhism.“The spirit of Shaolin Kung Fu includes compassion, harmony, diligence and inclusiveness,” he said, speaking through translator Diana Hong. “It is not a brutal fighting system. In addition to self-defense skills, Shaolin Kung Fu exercises also improve the health and overall spirit.”