The staff is the cornerstone of Shaolin kung fu – one of its earliest and most respected weapons. Its techniques are elegantly simple: every swing, thrust and block is precise. Far-reaching strikes and close-combat skills are combined in a tight, orderly system, based on agile footwork. At the entrance to the Shaolin Temple, monks demonstrate these ancient skills, their staffs cutting the air in strong, purposeful arcs. This isn't just about strength; it's a display of controlled harmony, where each move reflects a balance of power and strategy.