Business Details
Traditional Martial Arts Training in Brighton
White Crane Martial Arts is a traditional martial arts club based in Brighton, UK, dedicated to preserving and teaching authentic Chinese martial arts. With a focus on White Crane Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and weapons training, the club offers structured adult grading systems and specialized instruction in rare disciplines like Lion Dance and Chinese sword cutting. Our experienced instructors, including Chief Instructor Mr Russell Suthern, bring decades of expertise in traditional techniques, having trained extensively in China and performed at high-profile events such as Brighton Hove Albion matches.We emphasize the historical and cultural significance of martial arts, offering hands-on experience with combat-grade weapons like the Kwan Dao and Jian, while fostering community engagement through performances and workshops. Our curriculum integrates physical training, mental discipline, and cultural education, ensuring students develop both technical proficiency and a deep appreciation for martial traditions.
Services
Kung Fu Classes
Tai Chi Training
Lion Dance Performances
Weapons Instruction
Online Martial Arts
Highlights and features
- We offer authentic traditional martial arts training with combat-grade weapons.
- Our instructors have trained extensively in China and perform at major events.
- We specialize in rare disciplines like Lion Dance and Chinese sword cutting.
- Structured adult grading systems ensure progressive skill development.
- Community-focused programs blend physical training with cultural education.
Services
Weapons Training
Our weapons curriculum preserves traditional Chinese martial arts through instruction in combat-grade tools like the Kwan Dao (over 20lbs steel), Jian (straight sword), and Tee-Pit (Sai). Students learn historical techniques for long-range (staff), medium (broad-sword), and close-combat (double daggers), with advanced options like the three-sectional staff requiring years of dedicated practice. Training emphasizes safety, precision, and cultural context, with instructors demonstrating weapon-making processes for items like bamboo water carrier poles.
Lion Dance Performances
We specialize in traditional Chinese Lion Dance for festivals and events, combining martial arts strength with cultural storytelling. Performances feature synchronized movements to drum rhythms, with specialized training in the 'Eye Dotting Ceremony' that symbolizes bringing the lion spirit to life. Our team has performed at venues like the Amex Stadium and Brighton Open Market, offering both entertainment and educational insights into this 5,000-year-old tradition during corporate events and community celebrations.
Kung Fu Classes
Structured adult Kung Fu programs teach White Crane style techniques through forms like Suang Yang (soft style) and Iron Shirt Conditioning. Classes incorporate partner drills for practical application and solo forms to develop internal energy. Students progress through graded syllabi covering striking, grappling, and weapon integration, with specialized Dog Style Kung Fu sessions focusing on ground-fighting techniques derived from animal movements.
Tai Chi Instruction
Our Tai Chi program emphasizes the White Crane style's flowing movements for health and self-defense. Classes combine slow-form practice with push-hands drills to develop sensitivity and balance. Instructors teach the philosophical principles of Taoism through movement patterns, with advanced students learning weapon applications like the fan form that transitions between open and closed defensive techniques.
Chinese Sword Cutting
This specialized program teaches historical sword testing methods dating to the Qin Dynasty. Students practice cutting techniques on modern targets like foam tubing while learning about traditional blade designs. The curriculum covers curved (Da Dao) and straight (Jian) swords, with safety-focused instruction on controlling 3-foot razor blades. Advanced practitioners demonstrate power generation through body mechanics rather than brute strength.
People
Russell Suthern
Chief Instructor
With decades of martial arts experience, Mr Suthern has trained extensively in China and preserves rare traditions like the 20lb Kwan Dao. He leads Lion Dance performances at major events and teaches weapon-making techniques for bamboo poles. His expertise spans historical combat methods and modern safety practices.
Shafagh Amiraftabi
Instructor
Specializing in weapons training and Chinese dance, Shafagh teaches fan techniques and demonstrates the Water Carrier Pole. She studied traditional dances in Beijing and Shanghai, integrating cultural elements into martial arts instruction. Her classes combine physical training with historical context.
Joshua Haigh
Instructor
Expert in multiple weapons systems, Joshua demonstrates double broadsword techniques and constructed his own training bench. He performs Lion Dance routines and teaches practical applications for historical weapons like the Dragon Hook Sword. His instruction emphasizes weapon safety and historical accuracy.
Talin Sellian
Instructor
Specializes in Parent & Baby Kung Fu classes and Dragon Gauntlet techniques. Talin teaches weapon transitions between empty-hand and armed combat, with expertise in the rare Dragon Talons system. His instruction focuses on practical self-defense applications.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in White Crane Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and weapons training including rare systems like Dog Style Kung Fu and Iron Shirt Conditioning.
Can I book a Lion Dance performance for my event?
Yes, our Lion Dance team performs at weddings, business openings, and festivals across the South East. Contact us for availability and pricing.
Are weapons training sessions safe?
Our instructors prioritize safety while teaching combat-grade weapons. Beginners start with basic forms before progressing to advanced techniques with sharp blades.
Do you offer children's martial arts classes?
We provide Parent & Baby Kung Fu sessions and youth Lion Dance training, focusing on basic movements and cultural education.
Can I try a class before committing?
Yes, we offer introductory sessions for all our martial arts programs. Contact your local instructor to arrange a trial class.
What equipment do I need to start?
Beginners need comfortable clothing. Weapon training provides specialized equipment, though students may create their own bamboo poles under supervision.
