Meet Dai Sifu

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Meet Dai Sifu Christian Parker

I began my journey in the martial arts over 35 years ago, training in the Hung Leng Kuen style—known as the Free Spirit Fist—at Southampton University under the esteemed Grand Master JR Dutton. Hung Leng Kuen is a unique and powerful system that blends the ferocity and precision of Fu Jow Pai (Tiger Claw System) and Praying Mantis with the fluidity and grace of Shao Lin Long Fist. Our practice is also enriched by the internal arts of Tai Chi and Ba Qua, forging a path that balances strength with inner calm.

I am skilled in a range of traditional weapons, including the broadsword, staff, spear, and various flexible weapons. The Free Spirit Fist is not just a method of self-defense; it is a path of self-development, discipline, and resilience.

As the Head of the World Free Spirit Fist Federation, I currently oversee a multitude of clubs, guiding practitioners on their journey toward mastery. I hold the rank of Ninth Duan Black Sash in Kung Fu, and a Black Belt under the British Combat Association, affirming my commitment and expertise in martial arts.

Beyond the dojo, I serve as an Assistant Headteacher at a large secondary school. This role enhances my ability to connect with our younger practitioners, especially in the Shentie kids’ classes, fostering a new generation of martial artists with a foundation of respect, discipline, and honour.

arthi mandava

2024-04-17

Lessons are well planned and gives your body a complete workout.

Z Ran

2021-04-22

I have been studying kung fu (sanda) for 13 years, wing chun for 2 and taiji for last year and a half. I have now attended 2 classes and trained with a friend from sanda who is black belt in this system. I have also done 6 month intensive boxing program. Honestly, this system is something VERY special and the sifu is EXTREMELY knowledgeable, as well as having a great sense of humour which makes classes really good fun. The other students are all very friendly and respectful. I am seriously impressed and intend to keep going. There is a magnificent balance between the 'artistry' of kung fu but also the practical application of a street fight. The system is breathtakingly inventive and unpredictable, encompassing many different styles. Higher belts do spar (optional) so the style is definitely not ineffective and my friend would frequently box me up and down the hall at sanda for years, so I know the system works.

Giuseppe Gaeta

2020-06-22

I'd thoroughly recommend Hung Leng Kuen and this club to anyone wishing to try out martial arts. The instruction is excellent and carried out in a very friendly and welcoming environment. Having practised other forms of martial arts for a number of years, I have learned many additional techniques from Dai Sifu Parker. The dedication of the instructors are second-to-none and they truly care for the ongoing development and wellbeing of all their students. The training sessions are enjoyable as well as educational and the students and instructors are all nice people to spend time with. My personal circumstances does not always allow me to attend the classes I would dearly wish to attend. Nevertheless, the Instructors have always been very understanding of my position and this has given even more encouragement to attend as many classes as I am able. I look forward to practising and remaining a member of this club for many years to come.

Ilyas Parker

2019-10-01

Training is great, teaching is amazing...come check us out

Stacey Woods

2019-08-01

Great martial arts! Caters for all shapes and sizes.

Mark Burford

2018-02-02

Highly knowledgeable and skilled instructors create a safe, relaxed, fun environment for anyone who wants to learn. There really is something for everyone in this great art from beautiful (with lots of practice!) forms which contain the encyclopedia of self defence applications to striking, kicking, breathing, stretching, trapping, take downs, ground work and weaponry. You definitely get out what you put in, and the instructors really help make the art work for you, helping all become better, building on whatever base you join from.

Guy Cullum

2015-12-15

Excellent club teaching everything from ground work through to weapons, with both internal and external focus

Hung Leng Kuen

Traditional Wushu Forms

Defend yourself

Fight to fitness

Great community spirit