WUSHU Goes Places

To introduce Wushu, it must be said that since the traditional past it has been known down the ages in a broader perspective. However, in contemporary times its scope has been pruned down in a limited perspective which needs to be detailed.

Anciently Wushu, originated from Chinese Kung Fu and was specifically known as an art of combat. But down the years Wushu has won recognition as an international sport. From a Sri Lankan point of view, it is noteworthy that Wushu has effectively become a sport with national recognition at Sports Ministry level. It is the 44th national sport.

GREAT CHINESE TRADITION
Tracing its history, Wushu is known as a great Chinese tradition and was known as one entity. But since then it has evolved into several categories such as religion, philosophy, traditional Chinese medicine, dancing, music and art and has evolved in diverse sub ethics.

Present day Wushu is one part of ancient Wushu where the Chinese government recognized it as a sport. It is significant that since 1982 it evolved in countries outside China too including Sri Lanka where of course, it came into being long after 1982.
Wushu, in its present context can be categorized in to two categories – (1). Taolu and, (2). Sanda.

TAOLU is a Chinese art of combat form envisaging ancient dancing competitions under the format of proper rules and regulations where the winners are adjudged. Also, under the traditional concept competence is based with empty hands without the use of weapons.

SANDA is a traditional form of combat and is traced to traditional Chinese boxing and wrestling covering several subjects of scientific fighting. It is essentially a contest between two individuals using safety guards and the winner is adjudged on the basis of marks under proper rules and regulations.

Classes are held at the Bankhill Wellness in Pelawatta, Battaramulla.

The Wushu Federation of Sri Lanka is in the forefront of propogating this art in the country with emphasis on youth.
Bankhill Wellness operates two wellness studios, one is established in a serene and picturesque location at Ratnayake Mawatha, Pellawatte, Battaramulla, in the bustling new metropolis of Pelawatta. The Studio is a 3-story building which is high-ceilinged, pleasingly designed to complement with nature. The Second is established in the heart of Colombo at the Olympic House next to Independence Square.

The Studio has a world class gymnasium equipped with Tecnogym Equipment, the largest Personal Training area in the country with in-house Physiotherapist, Dietitians and visiting Doctors, a Group-Training Studio for Zumba, Yoga, Aerobics etc., which can accommodate over 100 people, Sauna and Steam Rooms, a Health Food and Juice Bar; and a proposed Plunge Pool and Jacuzzi.

Classes are conducted by Chief Instructor, Hemantha Rajapakse who is the Vice President of WUSHU, and Senior Instructor, Upali Anurasiri of Shaolin Martial Arts and the Secretary Shaolin Martial Arts Academy. He is a NISS Sports Science Diploma holder.

WUSHU MEDAL WINNERS

2011 National Wushu Competition
Bronze Medal 02

2011 School National Wushu Competition
Bronze Medal 01

2012 Junior National Wushu Competition
Gold Medal 03
Silver Medal 02
Bronze Medal 03

2012 School National Wushu Competition
Silver Medal 01
Bronze Medal 01

2012 National Wushu Competition
Gold Medal 02
Silver Medal 01

2013 School National Wushu Competition
Gold Medal 02
Silver Medal 01